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Plan Your Visit During COVID-19

What You Need to Know

We are currently booking zoo reservations on the half-hour, with the first time slot at 10 a.m. and the last at 2:30 p.m. Once you arrive, you may stay as long as you like. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis.

Spring is here, which means weekends and nice weather days will be in high demand, so our limited reservations may sell out in advance. Please don't wait until the last minute to make your reservation.  

General public/Non-Members seeking to make a paid reservation must book with Onondaga County Parks at onondagacountyparks.com/parks/rosamond-gifford-zoo. Those needing assistance with County Parks Reservations may call (315) 435-8511 x8512 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

All active zoo members, as well as those holding valid zoo guest passes, must call the Member Reservation Line at (315) 435-8511 x8589 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to book your time slot to visit the zoo. You must present your valid Membership ID upon arrival.

To ensure the safety of our visitors, staff and our amazing animals and comply with health directives, the following modifications and policies will be in place:

  • Some portions of the indoor zoo remain closed to the public at this time. Exhibits currently open include all outdoor zoo exhibits, the Domestic Animal Barn, the Social Animals building, the Zalie and Bob Linn Amur Leopard Woodland and the Giant Pacific Octopus exhibit in the upper lobby of the zoo. The USS Antiquities cave and aquariums, Diversity of Birds Aviary and Animal Adaptations/Noctural Animals exhibits remain closed for now.

  • All guests must reserve timed tickets for each member of their party through the county parks website or calling the Member Reservation Line before coming to the zoo. This rule applies to zoo members, veterans and military as well as the general public. 

  • Reciprocal zoo members can now book reservations through the Member Reservation Line by calling (315) 435-8511 x8589 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. 

  • Membership card or military ID, Photo ID and timed ticket receipt will be checked on entry.

  • We will limit the number of guests entering the zoo to ensure proper distancing. Guests will be welcomed to enter the zoo at timed intervals every half hour starting at 10 a.m. with the last reservations at 2:30 p.m. 

  • Zoo hours are from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with the last reservations at 2:30 p.m. Doors close at 3 p.m. 

  • Early or late arrivals will NOT be accommodated. There will be no re-entry. Please make sure you have everything with you before entering the zoo.

  • ALL visitors, staff and volunteers must wear face masks on arrival to the zoo, throughout their visit and are required for those over age 2. Please maintain 6 feet social distance from other groups during your visit.

  • While manual wheelchairs will still be available at the membership desk, there will be no stroller or wagon rental at this time.

  • The USS Antiquities cave, Diversity of Birds aviary, and Nocturnal Animals exhibits are still off limits to visitors.

  • Explorer’s Play Space, Explorer’s Outpost and carousel will remain closed for now. 

  • Hand sanitizer stations are distributed along the entire outdoor loop and at each entrance and exit of the building, and zoo staff will perform frequent disinfecting of all public touchpoints.

  • The Jungle Café remains closed for now. The Courtyard Cafe will be open on weekends starting March 27. Visitors are also permitted to bring their own refreshments (no alcohol), but seating is limited to a few tables in the courtyard and benches around the zoo.

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