Plan Your Visit to Oakland Zoo: Hours, Tickets, Discounts, and Must-Know Tips!

Visiting the Oakland Zoo is a fantastic family outing or solo adventure. The zoo, set in the 525-acre Knowland Park, is home to over 850 native and exotic animals – from grizzly bears, wolves and bison on the California Trail to lemurs, tigers and elephants. Before you go, double-check the Oakland Zoo hours. The zoo generally opens at 9:30 AM (with early entry at 9:00 AM for members) and closes daily at 6:00 PM (last admission 4:00 PM). In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need: seasonal hours and special event times, ticket prices and membership options, discount opportunities (students, seniors, military, groups), the best times to visit, top animal exhibits, dining and shopping, parking and transit info, accessibility details, and insider tips for a smooth, memorable visit.

Oakland Zoo Hours (Seasonal & Special Events)

Oakland Zoo hours vary by season and special events, so always check the official site before your visit. On most weekdays and weekends, general admission runs from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with the zoo grounds closing at 6:00 PM. Members enjoy early entry starting at 9:00 AM. Key attractions have their own schedules: the Skyride gondola (included with admission) operates roughly 9:30 AM–4:30 PM, rides and the Wildlife Carousel run 10:30 AM–5:30 PM (last tickets sold 5:15 PM), and the Children’s Zoo petting yard and Habitarium are open 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.

Seasonal Tips: Zoo hours can change with the season. For example, in summer there may be extra programs or extended weekends, and in winter check for reduced hours or holiday events. The zoo closes on major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, and sometimes closes early for special events (e.g. donor receptions, maintenance). In late fall and winter, Glowfari is a special ticketed event (typically Nov–Jan evenings with lights and holiday displays) – hours for that event are 6–9 PM, separate from regular daytime hours. Always confirm any holiday or event hours on the zoo’s website or calendar.

Discover Oakland Zoo’s Daily Hours! | Oakland Zoo Hours

Discover Oakland Zoo’s Daily Hours! | Oakland Zoo Hours

Ticket Pricing and Options

Tickets to Oakland Zoo are timed-entry and must be purchased in advance online for general admission. The zoo uses a Plan-Ahead Pricing model, meaning prices rise the closer you book to the date. To save money, buy tickets as early as possible: “the closer you book to your visit date, the higher the ticket price may be”. Reservations are required for all guests except current members (as of Jan 2024, members can enter without reserving).

General admission ticket prices vary daily, but some basics are: Children under 2 are free, children (ages 2–14) tickets are about 15% off an adult ticket, and senior (65+) tickets are ~10% off. Family-friendly attractions like the gondola, train, and carousel are included with admission. If you want added flexibility, upgrade to a membership at the zoo’s front windows or online. A single adult membership (one person) is $119/year, and a family membership (2 adults + up to 4 kids) starts around $229. Membership pays off quickly – you get free admission and parking year-round, plus 10% discounts on gift shop, camps and events. In fact, “a Zoo membership pays for itself in as few as two visits”.

Booking Tips: Tickets are easiest to buy online. If you don’t have internet access, you can call Guest Services to book by phone. Remember to bring your ticket (printed or on your phone) and any required IDs. Oakland Zoo does not sell walk-up tickets at the gate for general admission (except in rare cases), so reserve ahead. If plans change, day-of ticket changes aren’t allowed, but you can request a date change up to 48 hours before your visit.

Discount Opportunities

Oakland Zoo offers a variety of discounts beyond the standard child/senior rates:

• Oakland Resident Discount: Thanks to Measure Y, adult tickets for city residents are 25% off (kids -15%, seniors -10%). You must buy these tickets online and show proof of an Oakland address (ID or utility bill) at entry.
• Teachers: K–12 teachers get a 15% discount for themselves + one guest.
• Military/Veterans: Active duty military, veterans, and spouses receive a special discounted ticket (book online and show ID at entry).
• Low-Income (Bay to Zoo Tickets): Oakland Zoo participates in the Bay to Zoo program (formerly Museums for All). Qualifying low-income Bay Area residents can reserve deeply discounted tickets ($5–$3 per ticket for adults, seniors, children). On weekdays, if GA tickets aren’t sold out, some discounted tickets may even be available at the gate by calling ahead. (Note: this discount does not apply to special events like Glowfari.)
• Group Rates: Organized groups of 12 or more can get discounted admission when booked at least 2 weeks in advance. Schools, clubs, field trips and tour groups should contact the zoo’s Group Reservations page for details.
• Other Perks: Look for occasional special promotions (e.g. summer memberships sale) on the Oakland Zoo social media or newsletter.

Best Times to Visit (and What to Avoid)

For the best experience at Oakland Zoo, plan carefully:

• Arrive Early: Weekday mornings at opening (9:30 AM) are often quiet, and animals are most active before the heat of the day. One visitor notes that by the afternoon “many of the animals were less active … as the day went on”. Getting there right at opening gives you a head start on the crowds and lets you enjoy cooler morning weather.
• Cool, Overcast Days: If possible, pick an overcast or cooler day. According to local visitors, cloudy days tend to keep more animals on display (“the best days to go are when it’s overcast and cool as you’ll get the most animal activity”). In hot summer, seek shade or skip the mid-afternoon when animals often retreat indoors.
• Weekdays and Off-Peak: Whenever you can, visit on a weekday or during school hours. Weekends and holidays see higher attendance (especially summer weekends). If you must go on a busy day, consider arriving extra early. Parking can fill up, too, so plan for a short wait or pre-pay for a parking spot online to save a few dollars.
• Plan Your Route: Hit the far-flung exhibits first. For example, take the Skyride gondola up to the California Trail right away (it’s included with admission) to see grizzlies, wolves and bison before others arrive. You can then gradually work your way down towards the entrance. Check exhibit schedules in advance – some daily programs (like otter feedings or keeper chats) may have set times.
• What to Avoid: Avoid leaving late in the day. Admission stops at 4:00 PM, so aim to finish your visit before then. Also, monitor the weather – the zoo may close early if there’s heavy rain or extreme heat (in which case your tickets can be refunded). Finally, keep in mind the steep hills on the California Trail; wear good shoes or take breaks if needed.

In general, give yourself 3–4 hours to fully enjoy the zoo. Trip planners often note the average visit is about 2 hours, but with kids or a leisurely pace, half a day is better.

Must-See Animal Exhibits and Attractions

Oakland Zoo offers a mix of native wildlife and exotic species, along with fun rides and exhibits for all ages. Don’t miss these highlights:

• California Trail (Native Animals): This scenic hilltop area features California’s own wildlife. Ride the Skyride gondola up to see majestic grizzly bears, gray wolves, bison, and mountain lions against stunning Bay views. The Trail also includes the California Condors exhibit and a dog-training arena.
• African Savanna: Home to giraffes, zebras, ostriches and okapi, this open habitat lets you get up close. Watch giraffes feed, and keep an eye out for playful lemurs and colorful birds in the adjacent Tropical Rainforest indoor building.
• Big Cats & Carnivores: Check out the tiger and lion exhibits – these big cats are often active in the cooler morning. The nearby Animal Discovery area lets kids touch reptile skins and skulls, and features baby animals sometimes.
• Children’s Zoo: A favorite for families, the Children’s Zoo has a petting yard (goats and sheep), Habitarium (frogs, snakes, turtles), and the Madagascar Trading Post snack shack. The Wildlife Carousel and mini Express Train (included in admission) give little ones extra fun.
• Elephants: Oakland Zoo is known for its elephants. They’re usually visible near the entrance. If you’re lucky, catch a keeper talk or feeding.
• New Exhibits: The recently added Wild Australia zone features kangaroos, wallabies, emus and Tasmanian devils. It’s like a trip down under without leaving Oakland!
• Rides: All included with your ticket – the Express Train circles the park, the Carousel has endangered species figures, and the Skyride is a thrill with great views.
• Otters and Primates: River otters play in their pool, and there’s a great viewing platform. Also look for the troop of spider monkeys and ring-tailed lemurs, which are often active in the branches.

For specifics, grab a zoo map or use the Oakland Zoo app. Information screens and staff can also point out special spots (like where hornbills or hyenas might be hidden from view). Each habitat is well-labeled, and live webcams on the zoo site let you peek at certain animals (like penguins or sloths) ahead of time.

Food and Shopping Options

You’ll find plenty of dining spots and gift shops throughout the zoo to fuel your visit:

• Restaurants/Cafés:
  • Tusker’s Grill (near the main entrance) offers burgers, sandwiches and salads in Parrott Plaza.
  • Landing Café (along the California Trail) features chef-inspired meals on a veranda with panoramic Bay views.
  • Savanna’s Edge (by the African Savanna) is a counter-serve stand for quick snacks and drinks during breakfast and lunch.
  • Safari Café (in the Rides area) sells pizza, ice cream, pretzels and other treats – perfect after a train or carousel ride.
• Snack Stands: The Madagascar Trading Post in the Children’s Zoo has popcorn, sweet treats and beverages. Scattered snack carts offer pretzels, ice cream, coffee and cold drinks on warm days.
• Gift Shops: Pick up souvenirs at the main Gift Shop near the entrance and at smaller stands near exhibits. Look for Oakland Zoo apparel, plush animals, and eco-friendly toys. A unique treat is the locally-made “Grizzly Berry” blackberry-chocolate bar, sold at the gift shop and food stands, with proceeds supporting the zoo.
• Convenience: Many dining locations offer mobile ordering via the Oakland Zoo app or online. Water fountains and refill stations are available, so bring a reusable bottle. You can also bring your own snacks (no outside meals in indoor restaurants, but picnic tables are available outside).

Budget tip: Food at the zoo is convenient but often pricier than outside. Bringing your own sandwiches or snacks can save money, especially for large families.

Parking & Public Transportation

The Oakland Zoo is located at 9777 Golf Links Road, Oakland CA. On-site parking is available but not free:

• Parking Fees: Online pre-paid parking is $13 per car; pay-at-park is $16. We highly recommend reserving parking in advance (via the zoo website) to guarantee a spot and save $3. Large vehicles (vans, RVs) may have limited space.
• Public Transit: Several AC Transit buses serve the zoo area. Notably, Bus 46 stops right at the zoo (it runs from Coliseum BART via Fruitvale), making it easy to reach by BART. Routes 34 and 45 connect to MacArthur BART/Downtown Oakland, and 57 comes from the same BART station. Check AC Transit schedules before you go. Note that buses may have limited Sunday service.
• Other: Ride-share drop-off/pickup is allowed at the entrance loop. The zoo is also near hiking trails (like Knowland Park), if you’re feeling extra adventurous.

Accessibility (Visitors with Disabilities)

Oakland Zoo welcomes all visitors. The grounds are ADA-compliant and mostly paved (though some paths are steep). Key accessibility features:

• Wheelchairs & Scooters: Manual wheelchairs and electric scooters are available to rent at the main entrance gift shop (first-come, first-served). Rentals are $15 for a wheelchair and $30 for a mobility scooter. If you need one, arrive early or bring your own.
• Service Animals: Service dogs are permitted in most areas of the zoo (no pets otherwise). The zoo provides a service animal relief area and an accessibility map to show which pathways are paved and which have ramps.
• Accessible Transit: All major exhibits, restrooms and dining areas are wheelchair-accessible. Elevators and ramps are available near the main entrance. The gondola and train are also accessible by wheelchair (though space is limited).
• Quiet Areas: For guests with sensory concerns, the zoo offers quiet zones and shaded breaks.
• Plan Ahead: Download the Oakland Zoo ADA Accessibility Map before your trip to map an easy route. Staff and volunteers are happy to assist with any special requests.

Insider Tips for Your Oakland Zoo Day

• Book Early for Savings: Remember the zoo’s plan-ahead pricing: ticket prices lock in as the lowest price you’ll pay. Buy tickets weeks ahead to save. Same goes for parking – pre-pay online.
• Go Early or Late: As noted, mornings are best for active animals. Arriving right at opening also lets you find parking easily. If mornings are busy, try going in the late afternoon (after 3 PM) when crowds thin out a bit.
• Start at the Top: Ride the Skyride gondola first – it often has the longest line later in the day. From the top, loop around the California Trail exhibits downhill so you finish near the entrance.
• Check Daily Schedules: Visit the Zoo’s website or app for daily schedules. Keeper talks and animal feedings (often around midday) can be highlights. Some animals may swim or nap in the heat, so outdoor shows vary.
• Meet the Elephants: Oakland Zoo has a great elephant exhibit. If visiting with kids, try to time it for a keeper talk or feeding session at the Elephant exhibit (info boards will have times). The pachyderms are especially fun to watch in the morning.
• Pack Smart: Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen. The zoo is on a hill, so expect some uphill walking. Bring a hat and layers – even in summer it can be breezy at the California Trail overlook.
• Freebies: The Oakland Zoo gift shop hands out poptop coupons in some kids’ food containers (gotta love those free popsicles!). Also, after visiting a few times, look out for free events or member-exclusive offers to the park.
• Capture Memories: Photography is allowed everywhere (no flash for certain animals). The gondola provides great photo ops of the Bay Area. If you want wildlife pics, the meerkats, otters and monkeys make great subjects.
• Feel Good: Remember, proceeds support conservation. Dining, shopping and even parking fees go to animal care and education programs. Consider rounding up a donation or purchasing a small “animal adoption” kit at the gift shop to support the zoo’s mission.

With these tips, you’ll maximize fun and minimize stress. Enjoy your Oakland Zoo adventure!

Conclusion

Planning your visit to Oakland Zoo is half the fun. By knowing the current Oakland Zoo hours, booking the right tickets, and taking advantage of discounts and insider advice, you’ll set yourself up for a fantastic wildlife day out. Explore hundreds of animals in spacious, natural habitats, take a thrilling gondola ride with stunning views, and let the kids learn in the petting zoo and fun exhibits. Remember to book ahead, go early, and pack plenty of water and snacks. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, the Oakland Zoo has surprises and delights around every corner. So grab your camera, round up the family (or a friend), and get ready to discover the wild side of Oakland – you’re in for an unforgettable California adventure!

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