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Cleveland Metroparks Zoo announces new guidelines to keep guests, staff safe ahead of reopening

Daniel Maltz Rhino Reserve
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CLEVELAND — Ahead of its reopening date of June 17, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo announced new safety measures that will be put in place to keep guests safe as they visit the zoo.

To start, the maximum daily visitor capacity at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo will be reduced by approximately 75% and advance reservations will be required for all visitors. To maintain visitation numbers, both members and non-members will be required to make reservations in advance when the zoo reopens.

Guests can reserve their visit online or at the box office. Reservations for visits from June 17 to June 30 will be available soon, with an additional date to follow, the zoo said.

All outdoor animal habitats across the zoo’s 138 acres, including the newly opened Daniel Maltz Rhino Reserve will be open. Some indoor locations and certain attractions and services will remain closed for the immediate future due to operational constraints caused by COVID-19.

Handwashing stations will be located across the zoo grounds for guests. Staff will be frequently sanitizing all high touch areas, including restrooms, doors, glass, and railings.

Zoo Hours and Operation
The zoo will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

Attractions
Zoo attractions including 4-D Theater, Circle of Wildlife Carousel and Boomerang Line train will be operating with 50% capacity and will be temporarily closed for 15 minutes each hour for cleaning and sanitation. Deck access at the Ben Gogolick Giraffe Encounter will be limited to guests hand-feeding giraffes.

Areas that will remain closed

  • All playground areas will remain closed
  • Tram service will not be available
  • The Contact Yard and Camel Ride experience will be closed.
  • The RainForest remains closed as construction is underway. It’s scheduled to be completed by fall 2020.

Free Mondays at the Zoo
On Mondays, the Zoo will remain free for residents of Cuyahoga County and Hinckley Township. However, advance reservations are required for all visitors to manage attendance and allow for a touchless transaction. More information on reservations will be available soon.

Find more info here.