ZooLights FAQ

Have questions about ZooLights? Read our FAQs for illumination.

 

When is ZooLights? 2012 Zoolights will run from Friday, Nov. 23 to Monday, Dec. 31. There will be no ZooLights Monday, Dec. 24 or Tuesday, Dec. 25.

I want to perform at ZooLights. How do I sign up?
Fill out a performance form and submit it to our office. We will be in touch!

Can I use my zoo membership to see ZooLights?
ZooLights admission is included in memberships at the Plus level and higher. It is not included in basic zoo memberships. Simply put, if your membership allows you to bring a guest, it includes ZooLights. There is a member preview night on Wednesday, Nov. 21, from 5 to 8 p.m. This is the only night that is free for all membership levels.

Can I use my ZooLights ticket any time?
ZooLights tickets are valid only after 4 p.m. To enter the zoo earlier, a regular admission ticket must be purchased.

Can I come earlier in the day and stay for ZooLights?
Daytime visitors to the zoo are welcome to stay for ZooLights in the evening. However, there is no re-entry to the zoo after 4 p.m.

What time do the lights come on?
The lights start coming on at 4 p.m., and are fully lit between 5 and 5:30 p.m.

Do the tickets include the zoo train?
We offer ZooLights admission and a discount package that features the train. The train package is the best value. You can purchase admission only and walk through the zoo, without purchasing the train ticket. If you decide after entering that you do want to ride, train tickets are available at full price at the ticket booth near the train station.

Should I ride the train?
ZooLights is a truly immersive experience, with lights and displays throughout the zoo grounds. Some light displays are viewable only from the train, which makes it a special part of ZooLights experience. There is plenty to see and experience without the train, should you choose not to ride it.

Can I eat there? What food options are available?
Food options are available nightly, though some are weather dependent. At least one indoor restaurant will be open. The Cascade Grill, Grill-to-Go, Black Rhino, BearWalk Café and AfriCafe are open most nights, as are numerous carts featuring popcorn, elephant ears and hot chocolate.

Can I get an elephant ear during ZooLights?
Absolutely - it wouldn't be a trip to the zoo without an elephant ear! Also, snacks will be available at various food cart locations throughout the zoo. All food carts will stay open as long as business dictates, so get your snacks and cocoa early.

Will the animals be out during ZooLights?
Most of the zoo's animals will not be on exhibit during the evening. However, some may be viewable, including mountain goats, sea otters, sea lions, leopards, tigers, penguins, polar bears, and some primates.

Is it very crowded?
Weekend evenings can be very busy! Lines at the gate and for the train can be long. Guests can avoid train lines by arriving arriving at the train by 4:30 p.m. The first train departs at 5 p.m.

Who will be performing at ZooLights?
Download a 2012 ZooLights performance schedule here.

Is parking a problem?
On busy nights, the zoo parking lot fills up early. Shuttle buses run from overflow parking lots; follow signs on Highway 26 to access the lots. The zoo encourages you to use MAX for a stress-free journey to ZooLights. MAX riders get $1.50 off admission (with proof of ridership).

Might ZooLights close for inclement weather?
The Oregon Zoo is open as long as we can assure the safety of our visitors, staff and animals. If the decision is made to close the zoo, an announcement will be made to local news outlets and on our website.

Are wheelchairs available?
Strollers, wheelchairs and electric scooters are available for rent through the Zoo Store in the entry plaza.

How late is the Zoo Store open?
The store, located in the entry plaza, is open as long as the zoo grounds are open.

Does the Oregon Zoo offer discounts for ZooLights?
Yes, learn more about ZooLights special offers here.

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