About the Zoo

YOUR ZOO

Mission

Woodland Park Zoo saves wildlife and inspires everyone to make conservation a priority in their lives.

About Woodland Park Zoo

Founded in 1899, Woodland Park Zoo has sparked delight, discovery and unforgettable memories for generations of Northwest families. People who experience the wonders of the natural world are inspired to protect it. That’s why every year we lead more than 1 million people on a journey that inspires a lifelong love of animals, makes science come alive, and gives people the tools to take conservation action.

Stand Together for Wildlife

We must do more to save wildlife and wild places. It is time to unite all our voices and all our choices for the cause. It is time to ignite a movement for conservation.

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Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion

Woodland Park Zoo (WPZ) believes all people should have safe access to the zoo and culturally affirming and responsive experiences with our staff, programs and curriculum. WPZ strives to create an equitable and inclusive internal culture where all staff members feel represented and valued for their identities and lived experiences.

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Quick Links

A group of seventeen adults stands outdoors in front of a wooden building, smiling at the camera. Trees and greenery surround them, and the weather appears sunny and pleasant.

Meet the community leaders who guide Woodland Park Zoo’s mission and vision.

See the current Board

A large group of people, mostly wearing green shirts or jackets, stand together on a grassy lawn surrounded by trees and greenery, posing for a group photo outdoors.

Read the biographies of the executives who make up the zoo’s leadership team.

Meet the leaders

A young girl feeds a colorful hornbill held by a zoo staff member kneeling beside her. Other people and greenery are visible in the background, creating a lively outdoor zoo setting.

Follow the zoo’s annual plans and accomplishments.

Browse available reports

Aerial view of the zoo with dense trees in the foreground, residential neighborhoods in the middle, and a city skyline with tall buildings and a lake in the distance under a clear sky.

Woodland Park Zoo is part of a vibrant community. Explore programs and news for zoo neighbors. 

Learn more about zoo neighbor news

A black and white historical photo of a group of people, including children, stand along a curved barrier, watching a seal swim in a rocky pool at the Woodland Park Zoo.

See how Woodland Park Zoo has transformed since opening in 1899.

Read a brief zoo history

Two black and white penguins stand in front of a rocky background. Both are facing slightly to the right.

Woodland Park Zoo’s animal exhibits, conservation and education programs are among the most highly rewarded across the nation.

See a select list of awards