KCZoo Reopening to the Public with Precautions

Kansas City Zoo: Here we come ROARing back! After being closed for more than eight weeks, the
Kansas City Zoo will reopen our doors to the public this Saturday, May 16, but with some changes. To
ensure the health of our guests, employees, and animals, we are taking precautions that follow national
and local guidelines for encouraging physical distancing and reducing high-touch areas. Here is what the
public can expect:
Limited number of guests
• All guests must reserve an entry time at kansascityzoo.org. Entry times will be available in 15-
minute increments, up to one week in advance. This includes Friends of the Zoo members and
those holding free passes, although there will be no charge associated with making a reservation
for these groups. Those without online access can call the Zoo at (816) 595-1234 to reserve a
timed ticket.
• There will be a limited number of tickets available to keep attendance within the city’s
guidelines.
Increased social distancing
• Daily activities such as shows and Zookeeper Chats are temporarily suspended but are available
virtually with a QR code you can access with your mobile phone or through our web site.
• Indoor exhibits will be one-way traffic as will pathways around the Africa section of the Zoo and
through Australia and Tiger Trail. West Africa (across the swinging bridge) will be temporarily
closed.
• Africa Tram will be operating daily but have limited capacity due to physical distancing
guidelines. All other Zoo rides will be closed initially and will begin operations as it is determined
safe to do so.
• All Zoo employees will wear face masks; guests are encouraged to wear masks for their safety.
Reduced high-touch areas
• Food and beverage options will be available, but we have taken many steps to ensure safety
including physically distanced seating, pre-packaged utensils and condiments, and no self-serve
options.
• Water fountains and refill stations are temporarily closed, but free water is available at any food
stand.
• Playgrounds, play equipment, and animal feeding stations are temporarily closed.
• Additional hand-sanitizing stations have been placed throughout the Zoo.
• We encourage guests to use touchless credit card payment whenever possible.
“Things will look and feel a little different at the Zoo as we open back up, and we know we will have to
continue to adjust things daily. Our primary concern, though, is the health and safety of our
community,” said Randy Wisthoff, Executive Director/CEO. “We are so appreciative of the support that
Kansas City has shown us while we’ve been closed, and we cannot wait to welcome everyone back to
the Zoo.”
Anyone who would like to visit the Zoo or more information, should visit our website at
kansascityzoo.org to reserve a timed entry ticket.