The SF Teaching Zoo is open!
As of November 2, 2020 we are open 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. every day. We are excited to welcome you and your family back to the Zoo! Watch this video about our modified operations so you know what to expect before you visit.
For the health and safety of our guests, staff, students and animals, we have modified our operations.
Please follow CDC recommendations and wait to visit the zoo another time if
- You are sick or have symptoms
- You have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19
Visit the Santa Fe College COVID-19 FAQ page for additional information.
Please help us Protect Our Flock!
Guidelines for the safety of all guests, staff, and animals.
- Adults and children 4 years old and up are required to wear cloth face coverings at all times during your visit. Face shields are not a replacement for face coverings. Please see Santa Fe College protocol for face coverings. Children and adult masks are for sale at the ticket window.
- Please stand on the designated markers while waiting in line to purchase admission. Keep at least 6 feet between yourself and others throughout your entire visit.
- We recommend paying with a credit or debit card for a contactless transaction.
- A group must be 10 people or less.
- The path has been newly designed to ensure a 12 foot distance between guests and the animals, and altered to create a one way trail. As a result, some exhibits may not be visible. You may download our updated Zoo Map before you arrive.
- Practice good hygiene. Wash hands or use sanitizer when possible, and cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when sneezing or coughing.
- Avoid gathering. Keep entrances, exits, exhibits and pathways clear.
- Please follow all rules and signs.
Refunds and/or rainchecks will not be issued.
Any visitor unable to comply with the face covering protocol can interact with the SF Teaching Zoo on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube.
We reserve the right to refuse admission or ask you to leave the zoo without a refund if you are unable to abide by SF Teaching Zoo's safety protocols and other posted rules.
What you can expect from us
- Cleanliness - Increased cleaning and disinfecting of high touch areas.
- Social and physical distancing - Limited visitors, one-way path, and barriers. There are social distancing markers in front of the zoo for guests waiting in line to purchase admission, and signs throughout the zoo reminding guests to stay at least 6 feet apart.
- Masks - All staff members and zookeepers wear face coverings in all areas of the Zoo, at all times.
- Handwashing - Staff frequently wash hands and additional hand sanitizing stations are available for staff and guests around the zoo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will parts of the zoo be closed?
The playground will be closed until further notice. There are some pathways that are closed and animal exhibits that may not be visible. You may view the Florida Aviary from the covered pavilion. The gift shop is closed until further notice, however, you will be able to browse available items in a binder that is disinfected after each use, and purchase any gift shop items through the ticket window.
Do you accept cash payments?
We do accept cash, but request you pay with credit or debit card for a contactless transaction.
Can I rent strollers or wheelchairs?
We do not have strollers or wheelchairs available at the zoo. Our mulch-lined trails are wheelchair accessible, and guests are welcome to bring their own stroller or wheelchair.
What safety measures are in place to protect the animals?
Masks are required for all zookeepers, staff, and guests. Zookeepers and staff are required to stay home if feeling ill, exhibiting symptoms, or if they have had contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. Handwashing and sanitization measures have been increased. The trail has been modified to ensure guests are 12 feet away from the animals.
Will you take my temperature when I enter the zoo?
We are not conducting temperature checks of guests at this time. Guests, students, and staff are advised to monitor their health and visit the zoo another time if feeling ill or if they have been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19.
Will I be able to feed or touch any of the animals?
Animal encounters are unavailable until further notice.
Can I schedule my birthday party at the zoo?
Birthday parties and other programs at the zoo are unavailable until further notice. We are offering Zoo Zoom Birthdays Tuesday and Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. Please visit our birthday party page for more information on scheduling this free experience.
Will my member benefits be extended?
Members will receive an additional 6 months extension to their original membership expiration date. Please keep an eye on your email to receive your new expiration date. You can also log into the member portal to check on the status of your membership and access your digital membership card. Please message zoo@sfcollege.edu if you have any questions.