Located in Seattle's Phinney Ridge neighborhood, Woodland Park Zoo is an acclaimed wildlife conservation organization home to roughly 900 animals across 250 species. Famous for pioneering the world's first naturalistic landscape immersion exhibit for gorillas in the 1970s, you will explore 92 acres filled with over 1,000 plant species, a sensory garden, and immersive multi-regional zones.
Venture down the Assam Rhino Reserve in Tropical Asia to spot an Indian rhinoceros, or walk along the African Savanna to view reticulated giraffes, zebras, and African lions. You can also trace the Living Northwest Trail to see grizzly bears and wolves, explore lush jungles in the Tropical Rainforest, or visit Temperate Forest habitats featuring red pandas and a petting farm.
Children can enjoy the Zoomazium indoor play area or ride a refurbished 1918 solar-powered carousel. Whether you are observing Humboldt penguins through underwater viewing glass or walking through the butterfly garden, this award-winning zoo offers a rich, educational day outdoors for all ages.
What to see at Woodland Park Zoo
- World-pioneering gorilla landscape immersion exhibit
- Tropical Asia section with Indian rhino, orangutans, and Malayan tigers
- Living Northwest Trail featuring grizzly bears and wolves
- Underwater Humboldt penguin viewing powered by green energy
- Solar-powered historic 1918 carousel and Zoomazium indoor play space
Visiting tips
For a small fee at Willawong Station, you can purchase a seed stick to feed Australian parrot species directly.
How long: Half day · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Woodland Park Zoo is easy to reach on Seattle’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Museum of Pop Culture and Seattle Art Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Seattle travel guide.
See the full Seattle travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.