Bookable
Your visit, considered
Make room for
a little wonder.
A practical guide to the Phoenix Zoo,
from planning your ticket to finding your way.

Before you go
The details for a good day
Plan your visit to the Phoenix Zoo
Opening times, useful amenities and a few things to know before you arrive.
Opening times
All times are local to Phoenix.
- October to 17 January
- 09:00–16:00 · Every dayClosed Christmas Day
- 18 January to April
- 09:00–17:00 · Every dayHours change with the seasons
- May
- 08:00–16:00 · Every dayHours change with the seasons
- June to August
- 07:00–13:00 · Every dayEarly hours for the summer heat
- September
- 08:00–13:00 · Monday to Thursday08:00–16:00 Friday to Sunday
Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.
Finding the zoo
The Phoenix Zoo is in Papago Park, on North Galvin Parkway in Phoenix.
455 North Galvin ParkwayPhoenix, AZ 85008, USA
- By public transport: use Valley Metro’s trip planner with the Phoenix Zoo as your destination.
- By car or taxi: head for 455 North Galvin Parkway in Papago Park.
- Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.
Useful stops along the way
Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:
- Water fountains throughout the zoo.
- Picnic tables, and your own food and coolers are welcome.
- Wheelchair and stroller rental.
- Sensory bags at Reception and the Safari Cruiser Station.
Bring sunscreen, cold water and a hat: most of the visit is outdoors. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.
A visit that works for you
The Arizona Trail is fully paved and mostly flat, and the main loop of the Tropics Trail is paved and the shadiest. Desert Lives and parts of the Africa and Children’s trails have steep or unpaved sections; on the Africa Trail, wheelchair users are advised to start from the camel rides.
- Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
- Strollers and wheelchairs can be rented at the zoo.
- Sensory bags and weighted lap pads can be borrowed; ask zoo staff for assistance during your visit.
Enjoy the zoo thoughtfully
- Never feed the animals, including the free-roaming birds and squirrels.
- Stay behind fences and barriers, and don’t tease or shout at the animals.
- Pets are not allowed; trained service animals are welcome.
- Smoking and vaping are not permitted, and glass and alcohol cannot be brought in.
- Balloons, balls, selfie sticks, drones, bicycles and scooters are not permitted.
A little care helps keep the animals and the zoo safe for everyone.
Make time for a pause
The zoo has concession stands and picnic tables, and you can bring your own food.
- Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
- Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
- Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.
Water fountains are found throughout the zoo.
A few details worth planning
- Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
- Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
- Start in the right place: show your ticket at the main entrance on North Galvin Parkway.
- Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes, sun protection and a charged phone make the day easier.
- Leave space to linger: allow about three hours to see the whole zoo.
Visitor information checked 10 November 2026. Opening times and facilities can change; follow the date, time and instructions on your issued ticket.

Bring the essentials
Check the current visitor guidance before you travel.
- Comfortable shoes
- Charged phone
- Sun protection
- Your booking details