Reid Park Zoo just announced they are reopening to the public on Friday August 28th! I'm so excited to be able to see the baby elephant Penzi in person.
They will taking significant measures to keep the community safe. According to the Reid Park Zoo,
Tickets must be reserved in advance.All tickets must be prepurchased at least one day (up to seven days) in advance on the Zoo’s website — including tickets for Zoo members. Guests will only be admitted during their scheduled day, and tickets will be scanned for touchless entry. No tickets or memberships will be sold at the gate. Get ticketshere.
Bring water! Zoo water fountains will be closed as a measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Hydration is so important (especially during these hot summer months!) so we encourage you to bring water. Water will also be available for purchase from food carts throughout the Zoo.
Come for a Wildlife Walk: Interactive amenities are unavailable for the time being. The carousel, train rides, play equipment, giraffe feedings, keeper presentations, and indoor areas such as the Zoo’s Conservation Learning Center are unavailable as an extra safety precaution. Zoo education programs, including field trips, will be offered online only.
Social distancing is a must.A limited number of guests will be admitted per day, allowing guests to spread out during their visit. Please remain 6 feet apart from other parties (there are signs and sidewalk markers to help you) and practice excellent handwashing hygiene.
Face masks are required to enter the Zoo.Masks should be worn at any point where social distancing may be challenging, such as crossing paths or inside restrooms
The animals need social distancing, too. Animals who are more susceptible to human illnesses will have extra distancing barriers around their habitats for added protection.
Construction is underway for phase one of the Zoo’s 10 Year Master plan! The Cafe, Gift Shop, and Front Gate are closed for construction. Guests will enter the Zoo through a temporary entryway and will be able to find plenty of food and retail options at carts located throughout the Zoo. Plexiglass barriers at retail kiosks will provide protection for team members and guests and transactions will be limited to credit cards – no cash.
Please stay home if you are not well.All Zoo employees are required to wear masks and will not be allowed to work if they are sick. Guests who are sick are also required to stay home and rescheduled their visit.
We’re cleaning, cleaning, cleaning.Highly touched areas including handrails, restrooms, credit card machines, and employee areas are being sanitized frequently in accordance with current CDC safety protocol.
In addition to the Reid Park Zoo, the City of Tucson will also start opening up outdoor recreation areas like playgrounds and outdoor parks.
Will you be going to the Reid Park Zoo?