Last Updated on December 2, 2022 by Usama
Originally called the Portland Zoo, the Oregon Zoo is the oldest one west of the Mississippi River and the wildest place in the country. If you plan to visit it, Parking Access can assist you in developing a detailed car parking plan! Discover where to find a convenient Oregon Zoo parking spot and which Washington Park lot is the most suitable for zoo visitors. Our guide will take you through the entire Portland Zoo parking process, provide rates, and include tips on saving time and money.
Oregon Zoo Parking Rates
Visitors can park in the outdoor self-parking area located next to the Oregon Zoo. The map below shows the location of the main parking lot, which is open from 9:30 AM to 8 PM daily. Note that, on summer weekends, the lot is usually full by 10:30 AM, so be sure to arrive early. Standard parking rates are in the following list but note that they may change during special events.
| Duration | Parking Rate |
| First hour | $2 |
| Every additional hour | $2 |
| Maximum daily rate | $8 |
The daily parking fee applies after four hours, but overnight parking at the zoo is prohibited.
If the main parking structure is full, the signs will display directions to off-site parking spots at transit centers. If they direct you to the off-site lot, you don’t have to worry about walking back to the main entrance—the Washington Park Free Shuttle will take you to the gate. To avoid the hassle, we suggest that you check real-time parking availability before you head to the Oregon Zoo.
Oregon Zoo RV Parking
Parking options for oversized vehicles are limited, and parking can be particularly challenging during summer. To plan your visit properly, we suggest looking into the bus and RV guidance that includes a printable map with recommended routes and parking areas. Oversized vehicle drivers must pay for every space they take.
Event Parking at the Oregon Zoo
The Oregon Zoo parking fee usually changes for large events, but it depends on the occasion. Coordinators that host such events may buy daily parking permits for guests in advance. Each permit costs $8 and can be purchased at the Parks Customer Service Center.
Accessible Parking
Handicapped parking spaces are obtainable on a first-come, first-served basis in the Oregon Zoo parking lots. Each guest occupying such spots needs to own and display a disabled parking permit or license plate. For assistance or queries, reach out to the Help desk at 503-823-2538.
How To Pay for Oregon Zoo Parking
You may use coins or credit cards to pay for zoo parking services. Pay stations are available throughout the lots and accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Each pay station and parking sign contains public parking information and reminds you to remember your parking space number, such as the one in the picture below. You can use the Oregon Zoo parking app, too! The ParkingKitty App allows quick registration and payment by entering your parking spot number and using Zone 400 for Washington Park. Call 503-278-5748 for assistance.
Taking Public Transit to the Zoo
If you wish to stay away from the hassle of finding a convenient spot during the summer months, use public transportation! The TriMet Washington Park MAX station is only a minute away from the main zoo entrance and allows quick access. It is served by Blue and Red Light Rail lines, and trains arrive every nine minutes to downtown Portland and the Sunset Transit Center Park and Ride. TriMet’s Line 63 also runs from Providence Park between 7 AM and 6 PM. The adult TriMet fare is $2.50, while the daily pass costs $5.00.
Oregon Zoo FAQs
- How much is parking at the Oregon Zoo?
Visitor parking at the Oregon Zoo costs $2 per hour or $8 per day.
- How much does it cost to get into the Oregon Zoo?
The Oregon Zoo general admission is $24 for adults and $19 for children of age 2-11.
- Can you take food to the Oregon Zoo?
Yes! Feel free to bring your snacks or use the food options at the zoo.
Parking Access assists Portland residents and visitors in finding affordable parking options at many important locations across the city. In addition to the Oregon Zoo parking service, you can find out more about:
If you opt for on-street parking in the city, make sure you park properly to steer clear of parking infractions, and we can help you avoid or dispute a Portland parking ticket!