After several months of virtual safaris and scrolling through zoo babies photos from our couches, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden has finally been able to set an opening date.
The zoo, which closed its gates on Sunday, March 15 for the safety of its staff and the public during the current COVID-19 pandemic, will open with a reservation system in place beginning June 10 for members only, and June 17 for general admission.
The zoo announced it was ready to reopen on May 22, but was just waiting on the go-ahead from the state. And despite a recent order by Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Amy Acton saying zoos and museums and other attractions would be closed until July 1, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced today that certain entertainment venues would be allowed to reopen June 10.
The entertainment venues listed here may open beginning June 10th if they are able to follow the #ResponsibleRestartOhio Retail, Consumer, Service & Entertainment Guidelines and other applicable additional guidance: https://t.co/WKT0ZfS630#StaySafeOhio#InThisTogehterOhio pic.twitter.com/GiUzT9SIwt
— Governor Mike DeWine (@GovMikeDeWine) June 4, 2020
“The Zoo’s phased reopening approach will offer visitors the opportunity to connect with nature, see animals and spend quality time with family,” the zoo’s website says regarding its opening plans. “By limiting visitor capacity and implementing health and safety measures recommended by state officials, the community can take in the beauty of the botanical garden in a safe way. We are committed to continuing to inspire our guests every day!”
The zoo will be operating at a 50 to 75 percent reduced capacity and indoor exhibits are closed for now.
“It might be a while before visitors can see reptiles, insects, manatees and other animals in indoor habitats, but there’s still plenty to see and do here while walking around the grounds,” said zoo director Thane Maynard in a release. “Just being outside in the Zoo’s natural setting offers mental and physical health benefits.”
Reservations for both members and non-members are required and can be made online. They must be made prior to your visit and can be made seven days in advance.
The website advises guests to arrive within 30-minutes of their reservation time, and if they arrive early, to wait in their cars or outside until the scheduled time. These timing guidelines are in place to promote social distancing.
Visitors may park in the lot at the corner of Vine Street and Louis Avenue and should enter through the Erkenbrecher Avenue entrance.
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Avondale.
This article appears in May 6 – Jun 14, 2020.
