Omaha Zoo

Zoo Announces Increased Capacity on Grounds and Reopening of Hubbard Expedition Madagascar, Gorilla Valley, and Orangutan Forest


The Zoo is happy to announce the reopening of Hubbard Expedition Madagascar, Hubbard Gorilla Valley, and Hubbard Orangutan Forest on Friday, July 3. The Elevator building, which provides access to these areas, will also be open. Overall capacity of the Zoo has been increased to 9,200 people on grounds, while keeping building capacity at 50 percent of occupancy rate. These parameters allow guests to safely social distance between groups.

“As we approach the holiday weekend, we hope the Omaha community will spend part of it with us at the Zoo. We have almost all exhibits available for guests to enjoy,” said Dennis Pate, president and CEO of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. “It continues to be one careful step at a time as the Zoo reopens buildings and attractions. The health and safety of our animals, guests and staff is our top priority.”

The decision to allow visitors into buildings was made based on the most recent health and safety guidelines provided by the governor’s office, and the approval of the Zoo’s plan by the Douglas County Department of Health. A risk assessment was also completed in the animal areas. As a result, the Zoo is requiring masks for guests entering buildings to protect the animals. Children under five are exempt from this rule, as well as those who have medical concerns. The mask requirement is temporary as we fight coronavirus as a community.

The Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium, the Desert Dome, the upper level of the Lied Jungle®, Alaskan Adventure, Stingray Beach, Lozier Giant Screen Theater®, and the Gift Shop are currently open. Skyfari is operating on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Main Entrance can be used for both entry and exit to the Zoo, while the North Gate is exit only for now. Drinking fountains and water refill stations will remain unavailable, as well as the tram service. A limited supply of stroller, wagon, ECVs and wheelchair rentals will be available.

To limit contact, encourage social distancing and adhere to capacity requirements, guests will continue to make a reservation for a time to enter the Zoo in advance of their visit at OmahaZoo.com/Hours-and-Admission. Reservations can be made up to three days in advance of the visit. Timeslots are available every half hour between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily.

Please check the Zoo’s website at OmahaZoo.com and social media channels on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest details and the most current schedule as the Zoo opens additional exhibits and attractions.

The Zoo is committed to the safety and well-being of our guests, animals, and employees, and will make changes as needed based on actual operating conditions and guidance from public health experts and elected officials.

When the Zoo gates closed due to the Coronavirus crisis on March 16, 2020, dedicated staff continued to care for over 30,000 animals every day. Because of the closure, there is a significant revenue shortfall expected. In response, the Omaha Zoo Foundation has launched an Emergency Fund campaign to support ongoing Zoo operations. Members of the community who would like to contribute can visit the Zoo’s website, OmahaZoo.com.





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