The Saint Louis Zoo has announced it will reopen Saturday, June 13 with new protocols for visitors, including requiring timed reservations and face masks, and limiting attendance to better allow for social distancing. All Zoo staff will wear face masks and all guests over the age of 9 will be required to wear face masks/face coverings while visiting. "Guests will be allowed to remove or lower their face masks when practicing good social distancing of 6 feet or more when eating or drinking," the Zoo announced in a news release.
Jeffrey Bonner, Ph.D., President and CEO of the Saint Louis Zoo, said "Face coverings can help minimize virus transmission from asymptomatic individuals. Keeping our animal and veterinary care staff safe and protected is the best measure to keep our animals safe and at a minimal risk of exposure to a virus we know very little about."
Regarding the reopening of the Zoo, Bonner said "I am excited to share the news about our reopening and I hope everyone knows that the Saint Louis Zoo values safety. I am amazed at the incredible care our staff has provided to the animals during this pandemic as well as the diligent work underway in preparation to provide our guests with safe and memorable experiences."
Begining on June 8, visitors can make reservations for their future visit at the Zoo's web site or by phone. The Zoo will be open seven days a week.
Until then, families can enjoy daily videos from the Zoo's animal care team, as well as live webcams of the animals and virtual learning opportunities at stlzoo.org
The Zoo has previously announced it will not hold summer camps in 2020.
Photo: Saint Louis Zoo
Immerse yourself in awe-inspiring Chinese cultural performances, music, art, and history while enjoying authentic cuisine at Chinese Culture Days at the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Take your family to watch birds of prey fly right over your head, macaws speak the English language and much more at the WOW! Amazing Animal Show at the World Bird Sanctuary. Every program showcases different animals so each day is a new experience.
Don't be late for this very important date! the Fancy Tea Party at the Butterfly House will have you feeling fancy and acting silly while celebrating mommies, grammies and aunties. Bring your kiddos to enjoy tasty treats, delightful drinks, fun crafts and more.
Families are invited to the Saint Louis Art Museum on Sunday afternoon to participate in free hands-on art activities with fun themes and to explore the galleries. Each Family Sunday focuses on a different family-friendly theme.
See the Zoo's California sea lions perform acrobatic and athletic feats, including Olympic-style dives on a high-diving platform, flipper walks, frisbee tosses and plenty of surprises. While on stage with the sea lions, the Zoo's trainers explain sea lion behavior and positive-reinforcement training, in addition to the need for conserving the sea lion's ocean habitat.
