What's Special about the Oregon Zoo
- Oregon Zoo is the most visited paid tourist attraction in the state. Among all visitor attractions, it is topped only by Multnomah Falls and Timberline Lodge, both of which are free. Attendance has exceeded one million people in six of the past eight years.
Oregon Zoo has one of the most successful elephant breeding program in the world. Twenty-seven baby elephants have been born here since Packy, our first, was born in 1962. Oregon Zoo is pioneering research in reproduction, including artificial insemination.
- Oregon Zoo is internationally known for innovative environmental enrichment program, through which we devise ways to keep animals mentally and physically fit.
- Oregon Zoo has a terrific line-up of educational programs and classes. Our summer day camps sell out almost as soon as registration opens. We offer programs for adults, families and children.
- Oregon Zoo facilitates visitor contact with volunteers and staff. From the information booth at the entrance, to keeper talks, to volunteers in the goat kraal, we give visitors contact with people who can answer their questions and help them learn more about the zoo and its animals.
- Oregon Zoo has some of the biggest, best events of any zoo in the country. We were the first zoo to do a summer concert series. Our idea has now been copied by zoos all over the country. ZooLights attracts over 75,000 visitors.
Oregon Zoo's catering department does a higher volume of business of any zoo in the country. Last year it grossed over $565,000 for the zoo.
- Oregon Zoo has a great setting. We are surrounded by a beautiful forest that provides natural habitat for dozens of native animal species. Right next door is Forest Park, the largest park within city limits in the U.S.
- Oregon Zoo has one of the largest volunteer programs of any zoo. More than 2,000 volunteers contribute over 125,000 hours yearly.
- Oregon Zoo's train ride has been called "the best in the nation" and features a scenic excursion through Washington Park, ending at the Rose Test Gardens and the Japanese Garden. The train has the only surviving railway post office in the country.
- Oregon Zoo has the worlds first and only elephant museum. It features a comprehensive educational presentation on the history of man and elephant.
- Oregon Zoo's Center for Species Survival strengthens our commitment to conservation. The complex is an off-site breeding and research facility for endangered animals.
