Guest Services

Tips for a Great Zoo Visit

Every day is a great day to visit the Zoo! Our animals are generally more active when the temperatures are more moderate, which makes spring and fall the ideal times for a visit.

During warmer months, getting an early start and visiting in the mornings when it's cooler will give you the best chance of seeing animals when they’re most active. During the winter months, check out all the indoor exhibits: Helzberg Penguin Plaza, Tropics, Discovery Barn, Orangutan Canopy, Snakes, and Polar Bear Passage. Sea lions, river otters, tigers and red pandas enjoy the cooler weather.

If you want to learn more about our animals, check out our daily animal chats. These change seasonally so check your Zoo Map for reference.

Be comfortable! Check the day’s weather forecast before you arrive and dress appropriately. We recommend dressing in layers — come with a jacket for the cooler mornings that you can peel off as the day warms up. Comfortable shoes are a must! With 202 acres to explore at the Zoo, you’ll be on your feet most of the day.

Rent Strollers, Wagons, Wheelchairs & Electric Scooters (ECV)

Rentals are available at Guest Relations. All are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Single Stroller: $9
  • Wagon: $11
  • Double Stroller: $11
  • Wheelchair: $12
  • Electric Scooter (ECV): $28
    *Online reservations must be made 24 hours before your visit. You may reserve an Electric Scooter online here.
    **Drivers must prepay to hold their reservation.

Zoo Souvenirs

Your favorite Zoo memory can be found and purchased from one of the two Zoo gift shops, Deja Zoo and Equator Gifts, located in the Lobby or in the African Market. Commemorate your experience with an animal painting or plush animal. Share your support of the Zoo with a t-shirt or a cap.

Emergency & Security Services

The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium employs Kansas City Police Department off-duty officers to help monitor the Zoo grounds; they are onsite daily. In addition, the Zoo has onsite emergency medical technicians trained as first responders. Should you have an emergency, please contact any Zoo employee or call 816.595.1234. In case of dangerous weather, the Zoo’s indoor exhibit buildings are designated as safe areas.

Family Restrooms / Nursing Moms / Adult Changing Room

Family restrooms are located throughout the Zoo. If you are unable to locate them, please call 816-595-1234 or ask any Zoo employee. Mother’s Rooms specifically designed for nursing mothers can be found inside Helzberg Penguin Plaza and Sobela Ocean Aquarium, and at Elephant Expedition. An adult changing table can also be found at Elephant Expedition.

Sensory-Friendly Zoo

The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is happy to check out sensory bags to our guests who need them. The bags, including noise-canceling headphones, are available at Guest Relations. Weighted blankets are also available.

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