Woodland Park Zoo (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Woodland Park Zoo?
What makes it 94% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 ride the carousel, climb in Zoomazium, join low-sensory Fridays and keeper Q&A, with stroller paths and changing tables, so the zoo is nearly ideal for this age group.
Positives:
- Family-Friendly Facilities: Wide paths and family restrooms make moving with a stroller easy.
- Interactive Learning: Keeper talks and scavenger hunts keep kids curious and involved.
Challenges:
- Weather Changes: Seattle weather can shift to rain—bring waterproof layers.
- Walking Distance: The 92-acre grounds involve long walks; kids may tire. Plan breaks.
What is Woodland Park Zoo?
- A 92-acre zoological park in Seattle that houses nearly 300 species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians
- Features realistic natural habitat exhibits replicating Pacific Northwest forests, African savannah, Alaskan tundra and tropical rainforests
- A nonprofit conservation and education institution established in 1899 and dedicated to wildlife preservation and scientific research
What is so special about Woodland Park Zoo for with kids?
- Interactive indoor play at Zoomazium
- Engaging keeper talks with live demos
- Historic hand-carved carousel rides
- Digital scavenger hunt via the zoo app
- Covered and open-air exhibits fit all weather
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Long enough to see main exhibits, enjoy Zoomazium, and take breaks for snacks and play.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Woodland Park Zoo
Zoomazium Indoor Play:
Explore tree-top rope bridges, story areas, and climbing structures.
Tip: Visit in late morning to avoid lines; check the daily schedule for puppet shows.
Animal Keeper Talks:
Hear personal stories and see feeding demos at key exhibits.
Tip: Arrive 5 minutes early for front-row standing room; let kids ask questions to stay engaged.
Historic Carousel:
Ride hand-carved wooden horses on the vintage carousel.
Tip: Buy tokens in advance at guest services; kids under 42" ride free on a lap.
Interactive Scavenger Hunt:
Use the digital map to complete the “I Spy” scavenger hunt around the zoo.
Tip: Download the app before entry and split tasks between adults and kids.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Woodland Park Zoo
- Buy Tickets Online: Purchase admission ahead to skip ticket lines and secure entry time.
- Start at Zoomazium: Head to Zoomazium first for a quieter play session before noon crowds arrive.
- Plan Meals: Bring snacks or picnic to save time; the cafe can get busy at lunch.
Reviews of Woodland Park Zoo
crystal haggerty
I recommend coming when it opens because there is so much to more see. We came at 10am and left at 4pm right at closing and we just finished seeing everything. This zoo is really big and so many amazing animals to see! Definitely recommend coming here!!
Parneet Dhillon
This was a great experience for my son and his friends. We drove from Vancouver, BC and we're not disappointed. All the animals were out eventhough it was raining. The indoor explore and play area was so different and the interactive play was great for the kids. The dinosaur exhibit was great as well!
Renita Orellana
I love this zoo. It's constantly striving to build better exhibits for its animals, and more educational content for the people. It's always clean when I go, and the animals look healthy. If you want to see animals, don't go on bad weather days. There's great variety and beautiful walking paths. I love the extra exhibits they do, like the dinosaur one they had earlier this summer.
Joe Guacci
I go to a fair amount of zoos, and this one was one of my favorites. There's a good variety of animals, very spacious and inviting. My only complaint is that it's hard to see into the exhibits sometimes due to the rolling hills. Aside from that this zoo allows outside food and drink, which is incredible. Very lax here and enjoyable, would absolutely go back!
Kym Morrison
We went for the first ever adult day at the zoo. And to tell you the truth it was AMAZING. no strollers hitting your.legs, no screaming kids. Just adults, enjoying the day without kids and looking at the animals. I was amazed at how nice it was. The animals are well cared for. The keepers talked to us and answered questions. I will be back for sure.
When is the best time to visit Woodland Park Zoo (Seattle, United States)?
Seattle weather changes quickly. In summer, pack sunscreen and hats. Year-round, carry a rain jacket. On rainy days, head indoors to Zoomazium first.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Zoo admission (4 tickets) | USD 98.96 |
| Historic Carousel (4 rides) | USD 12 |
| Parking | USD 6 |
| Total Estimated | USD 116.96 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Woodland Park Zoo
Address: Seattle, WA 98103, USA
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About Woodland Park Zoo
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
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