Plan Your Zoo Adventure
Everything you need for an unforgettable zoo experience — hours, tickets, directions, dining, and more. Open 364 days a year, rain or shine.
Meet Our Residents
When to Visit
Open 364 days a year — closed only Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Year's Day.
Admission Pricing
Prices vary by selected visit date. Ranges below reflect typical pricing. Children 2 and under are always free.
| Ticket Type | Age | Spring / Summer | Fall / Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | Ages 12–59 | $15.75 – $31 | $11 – $17 |
| Child | Ages 3–11 | $10.75 – $25 | $8 – $14 |
| Senior | Ages 60+ | $10.75 – $25 | $8 – $14 |
| Under 2 | Ages 0–2 | Free | Free |
| Military | Active duty w/ valid ID | Free | Free |
More to Experience
Family FavoriteA beloved classic — ride hand-painted animals on our historic carousel. Children under 42" ride free when accompanied by an adult.
Narrated TourHop aboard the narrated tram ride for a relaxing tour of the Zoo. Perfect for guests who need a break from walking.
SeasonalCool off at the Splash Park on warm days. Members enjoy early access at 9:30 AM. Home of The Coop restaurant.
Directions & Parking
Directions
Located just 15 minutes from downtown Louisville, easily accessible from I-64 and I-65.
Take the Watterson Expressway toward the airport to Poplar Level Road, Exit #14. Head north and follow the black-and-white Zoo signs to 1100 Trevilian Way.
Route 43 (Portland–Poplar Level) stops near the Zoo entrance. Visit tarc.org for current schedules and fare information.
Parking
Adjacent to the main Zoo entrance. Opens 30 minutes before the Zoo opens. Purchase online when buying tickets to save time at the gate.
All Louisville Zoo members receive complimentary parking during regular Zoo hours.
School buses are exempt from parking fees. Non-admission activities also avoid charges.
Eat & Drink at the Zoo
Five dining destinations across the Zoo, from artisan flatbread pizza to smoked BBQ and our signature Kentuckyaki Chicken. Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are always welcome.
Artisan flatbread pizzas, hand-breaded chicken tenders, burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, and Kid's Meals. Online ordering available.
Classic quick-casual burgers and sandwiches. Frozen wine and beer available for adults.
Locally roasted coffee, fountain beverages, ICEE, soft pretzels, popcorn, and cotton candy. Craft and domestic beer available.
Beverages and bourbon slushies served at a scenic lakeside deck. The perfect spot for a mid-afternoon break.
Our signature Kentuckyaki Chicken Sandwich — crispy chicken drizzled with locally sourced, bourbon barrel-aged Kentuckyaki sauce. A Louisville original.
All Louisville Zoo members receive 10% off food & beverage at all on-site dining locations. Some restrictions apply.
Explore Membership →
Take a Piece of the Zoo Home
Three gift shop locations carrying exclusive Louisville Zoo merchandise, plush animals, fair trade items, and more. Members receive 10% off all purchases.
T-shirts, a large selection of plush animals, fair trade items, and exclusive Louisville Zoo merchandise. Open year-round — no Zoo admission required to shop!
Seasonal outdoor shopping with a rotating selection of Zoo-themed gifts and souvenirs.
Located at the end of Sembagari Trace in Gorilla Forest. Gorilla and primate-themed gifts and keepsakes.
We're Here to Help
Our Guest Services team is located at the front plaza near the main entrance. Rentals, first aid, lost & found, and more.
Equipment Rentals
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Double Stroller | $12 |
| Wagon | $13 |
| Wheelchair | $11 |
| Electric Wheelchair / ECV (same-day) | $35 |
| Electric Wheelchair / ECV (advance reservation) | $40 |
Located on the front plaza near the main entrance.
Available on the front plaza and in the Cub House.
Gorilla Forest, Splash Park, and the main restroom building.
Louisville Zoo gift cards available at Guest Services and all gift shop locations.
Contact Guest Services at the front plaza or call (502) 459-2181.
Louisville Zoo is a smoke-free and vape-free environment throughout all grounds.
Wheelchairs and ECVs available at the front plaza booth. ECV operators must be 18+ or 16+ with valid permit.
Inclusive for Everyone
Louisville Zoo is KultureCity Sensory Inclusive™ Certified — welcoming guests of all abilities, including autism, PTSD, dementia, and hearing or vision loss.
Sensory Bags — Free
Noise-reducing headphones, fidget items (marble, noodle, tangle), visual cue cards, ID lanyards, and optional weighted lap pads. Available at the rental booth or reserve online.
Wheelchair & ECV Rental
Wheelchairs ($11) and Electric Convenience Vehicles ($35–$40) available at Guest Services. Standard wheelchairs support up to 250 lbs.
Service Dogs Welcome
ADA-certified service dogs must check in at the front gate. A map of animal-proximity restricted areas is provided. Emotional support animals are not permitted.
Quiet Areas (QA)
Designated calm, low-stimulation areas throughout the Zoo where guests can take sensory breaks.
Headphone Zones (HZ)
Louder areas marked on the sensory map — headphones from sensory bags are recommended here.
KultureCity App
Free to download. Preview the Zoo's sensory features and access a visual "Social Story" to prepare for your visit before you arrive.
Host Your Event at the Zoo
From corporate receptions to birthday parties and weddings, Louisville Zoo offers unforgettable private event experiences. Imagine celebrating among giraffes and gorillas with exclusive after-hours access.
Before You Arrive
Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are welcome at Louisville Zoo.
Exit and re-enter on the same day. Get your hand stamped at the exit before leaving.
ADA-certified service dogs only. Must check in at the front gate. No emotional support animals.
Louisville Zoo is a no-smoking and no-vaping environment throughout all grounds.
Children under 42" must be accompanied by an adult on rides. Secure loose items before boarding.
Personal photography is welcome throughout the Zoo for non-commercial use. No drones permitted.
Common Questions
Ready for Your Adventure?
Get your tickets online and skip the line. Open 364 days a year.