Central Florida Zoo to reopen Wednesday with limited capacity and reduced operating hours

Sanford, Fla. — The Central Florida Zoo announced Monday, that the park and Botanical Gardens will reopen to the public on Wednesday, May 13th.

In-park attendance will be reduced to 50% of outdoor capacity, online timed ticketing will be required for all guests, one-way pathways will be established, there will be reduced operating hours to allow for additional cleaning and all visitors are “strongly encouraged” to wear masks for their own safety, as well as, the safety of zoo staff and the animals.

Hours of operations for now will be from 10 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

Zoo officials said their reopening and modified operations plan was approved by Seminole County Emergency Management officials.

Guests should also know, that based on current State guidelines, the Zoo’s indoor venues will remain closed, including the Insect Zoo, Zoofari Outpost Gift Shop, Bear House, and Herpetarium. High touch points in the Zoo, including the Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground and the KaBoom! Playground will be closed.

In-park feedings and encounters are suspended until further notice.

The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Sanford has been closed since March 14, due to coronavirus.