Louisville Zoo gradual reopening starts Friday

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WTVQ) – The Louisville Zoo will start its gradual reopening this week, with members able to visit starting Friday June 12 and the public June 26.

The zoo will operate with limited capacity and tickets will need to be purchased in advance to reserve a time and date in advance. Those tickets can be purchased online at no additional cost.

Tickets for members go on sale June 10. Tickets for the public go on sale June 20.

During the initial opening phase, the zoo will operate at a reduced capacity of 100 guests per hour.

The zoo is extending all memberships that were active during the closure the number of days it was closed.

Members, using a valid member number, will be able to select a date and time that they would like to visit and reserve their spot at no cost. Members are encouraged to limit visits to once per week at this time to allow us to accommodate as many families as possible, the zoo said on its web site.

Zoo management is coordinating with the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness to ensure the the latest health safety guidelines. This means things will look a bit different. Among other things:

• Visitors will see signage, animal markers on the ground and guest services personnel stationed throughout the Zoo to encourage social distancing.
• Staff will be disinfecting high touch areas frequently.
• All staff will be wearing masks and visitors over age 5 are encouraged to wear masks as well.
• Some areas will be unavailable during this initial reopening phase including indoor areas, attractions and playgrounds.
• All bathrooms will be open with step and pull or touchless access.