Back in December of last year, the L.A. Zoo was forced to close its doors due to the rising Covid-19 cases in California. However, last month the zoo announced that they would be reopening on Feb. 16 with new modifications to fit the CDC guidelines. It’s time to grab the sunblock, hats, water, and comfortable shoes because the L.A. Zoo has finally reopened to the public.

The L.A. Zoo first closed its doors on March 13 of last year due to Covid-19. They reopened their doors months later on Aug. 26 with rules and regulations to keep everyone safe. While it was very different from what everyone considered normal, opening the zoo was a step in the right direction. So, when the COVID-19 cases in the L.A. County skyrocketed, the zoo had to close its doors, leaving everyone devastated.

That’s why the announcement of this second reopening is such great news. It shows that things are becoming safer and a small sense of normality is once again forming. Along with this reopening comes significant changes in the L.A. zoo’s ticketing process. Online reservations are now required to limit attendance, there’s a capacity of 2400, only 400 people are allowed per hour, and there is entry every half hour.

According to ABC7, “Some of our spaces are closed, like our indoor lair building, the carousel, our play park, spaces that are difficult to keep safe and sanitary and then our outdoor dining is limited, 25% capacity and then indoor retail also has limited capacity,” said Denise Verret, the zoo’s CEO and director.”

Guests can expect many things when visiting the zoo:
All staff and guests of ages two years and above are required to wear face coverings
Hand sanitizer stations are located all throughout the zoo
Signs and markers that remind people to physically distance themselves are placed around the zoo
Indoor dining and exhibits are closed
Presentations, in-person conversations, and events are temporarily suspended
There are enhanced cleaning procedures for high-contact surfaces such as restrooms
One-way traffic pathways around the zoo to allow for physical distancing among the guests

While these circumstances aren’t ideal, the fact that the zoo can once again open its doors is fantastic! There are plenty of rules and regulations to maintain and ensure that the L.A. Zoo does not have to close again. The chance to see all the amazing and exotic animals located in the zoo will get just about anyone excited.

The L.A. Zoo has many things to offer and while some of its attractions are unavailable at the moment there are still plenty of fun things to see and do. If you plan on visiting the zoo anytime soon make sure to follow the correct ticketing procedures and verify everything goes as planned. Enjoy the beautiful animals, family time, and nice weather, it is bound to lift your spirits.