A big outdoor zoo in Papago Park with sensory bags and weighted lap pads to borrow, five named Quiet Zones, six named Headphone Zones, a KultureCity partnership with sensory training for staff, and coolers welcome.
“Sensory bags containing fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones and other resources, are available for checkout at Reception and the Safari Cruiser Station.”
“‘Quiet Zones’ are areas that typically have less activity and spaces to sit and regroup after becoming overstimulated”
“We have identified areas that are noisy and where guests tend to linger as ‘Headphone Zones.’”
Weighted lap pads are available on request at the Safari Cruiser Station. During March, sensory bags are also at the Adventure Center.
Orangutan Bilik is an indoor, air-conditioned viewing space with benches, and it's also one of the Headphone Zones. The Tropics Trail is the shadiest trail in the zoo, with a few cooler exhibit areas.
Tropical Flights has a small walk-through aviary that may feel crowded on a very busy day, and the Forest of Uco path is narrow and can be very crowded on busy days.
Small Wonders/Reptile Nursery on the Children's Trailnot stated
Python exhibit on the Children's Trailnot stated
Quieter, in the zoo's words
Arizona Trail, between the coyote and condor exhibitsquiet zone
The Rose Garden, near the greater flamingoquiet zone
Emily's Butterfly Garden on the Children's Trailquiet zone
Tropical Flights Trailquiet zone
Between the Forest of Uco and the Thunderbirds Charities Equine Facilityquiet zone
Daytime admission: adults (14 and up) $44.95, children 3 to 13 $32.95. Kids under 14 must come with someone 14 or older. With an Arizona EBT card and photo ID, you can get up to four tickets for $10 each on Tuesdays and Sundays.
Care centers and organizations whose clients have disabilities that need staff assistance for a zoo visit can get discounted group rates; call Reservations at 602.286.3800.
Rentals are just to the right after the turnstiles, first come, first served, card only: single stroller $14, double stroller $18, wheelchair $12, electric scooter $40 (members pay less). Last rental is 15 minutes before closing. On some busy days, wheelchairs and scooters may be offered at the curb; if not, call 602-286-3800.
Trails: the covered bridge into the Children's Trail isn't recommended for wheelchairs, and that trail has multiple curves and switchbacks. The zoo recommends that wheelchair users and others with mobility concerns start the Africa Trail from the camel rides, to skip a steep uphill with little shade. Desert Lives is unpaved with steep hills.
Small kids can splash in Yakulla Caverns or Leapin' Lagoon, so pack a swimsuit or water-safe clothes.
ZooLights runs November 25 to January 15, 5:30 to 10:30 pm ($35, members $30, 2 and under free). Most animals won't be visible at night. Monday to Wednesday nights are usually least crowded, and arriving around 7:30 to 8 pm can make entry smoother. If the main lots fill, the overflow lot is about a 15-minute walk.
Pets aren't allowed; a Park Ranger reviews service animals (questions: 602-914-4356).
