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Getting to ZooLights

Oregon Zoo
Nov. 22, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025

 

This year promises to be the brightest ZooLights yet, with a brand-new magical meadow light show, dozens of life-size animal lanterns along the train route, and more interactive displays than ever. Parking will be extremely limited. Follow our tips and tricks below to get to ZooLights with ease and confidence. RESERVE ZOOLIGHTS TICKETS >>

Trip Tip #1

Parking is Extremely Limited. Take TriMet!

Take the TriMet MAX Red or Blue line to Washington Park station, located just steps from the Oregon Zoo entrance!

  • Pro tip: Park at one of TriMet’s Park & Ride locations before hopping on MAX. The Sunset Transit Center is one stop west of the Park, just an 8-minute drive from the zoo, and offers 600+ free parking spaces after 4 p.m.
  • MAX arrives at Washington Park station every 8-10 minutes.
Trip Tip #2

Catch a Ride with Uber or Lyft

If you’re looking for an alternative to public transportation, consider using a ride-share service to get to and from ZooLights.

  • Get an Uber
  • Get a Lyft
  • Designated drop-off and pick-up zones are located right in front of the Oregon Zoo gift shop.
Trip Tip #3

If You Drive, Consider Parking in Our Free Offsite Lot.

Paid onsite parking fills early and is not included with admission. If you plan to drive to ZooLights, consider free offsite parking at a nearby overflow lot on Westgate Dr. You’ll get convenient, free bus service to and from the Oregon Zoo starting at 4:30 pm.

  • If attending ZooLights on a Friday or Saturday, look for signs as you enter the Park about potential availability for parking in our offsite overflow lot at 5319 SW Westgate Dr.
  • If the main zoo lots are full and the overflow offsite lot is open, you’ll be able to park there for free and take a free bus to and from the zoo. Please allow a few extra minutes for travel time, and be prepared to wait outdoors for buses.
  • It may be necessary to park in the offsite lot throughout the busy holiday season. Offsite parking spaces are subject to availability. If the offsite lot is full, our staff will direct you to TriMet’s Sunset Transit Center, which has 600+ free parking spaces, so you can take MAX to Washington Park station.
  • During busy evenings, the zoo will be flexible on entry times.
Get Directions to the Offsite Lot
Trip Tip #4

If You Plan to Park at the Zoo, Here’s What to Know Before You Go.

Limited onsite parking is available at the zoo, but it fills early. All vehicles must pay to park. Bus and RV parking is extremely challenging.

  • ZooLights special event parking rates apply after 4 p.m.
    • At onsite pay stations: $3.60/hour | $10.80 max
    • With Parking Kitty app: $3.20/hour | $9.60 max
  • Buses and RVs are allowed to park in certain areas of the Park when parking availability permits. When parking in metered spaces, payment is required for each space occupied.
  • Oversized vehicles may park at gravel pullouts along SW Kingston Dr, in the parallel spaces along SW Sherwood Blvd near the reservoirs, or in Lot A near the Oregon Zoo. We recommend arriving early, so you can find a spot that will be easy and safe to exit.
  • If your vehicle is more than 30 feet long, we strongly encourage you to take an alternative mode to ZooLights. Please consider MAX, Uber, or Lyft.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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