The Saint Louis Zoo has announced it will reopen Saturday, June 13 with new protocols for visitors, including requiring timed reservations and face masks, and limiting attendance to better allow for social distancing. All Zoo staff will wear face masks and all guests over the age of 9 will be required to wear face masks/face coverings while visiting. "Guests will be allowed to remove or lower their face masks when practicing good social distancing of 6 feet or more when eating or drinking," the Zoo announced in a news release.
Jeffrey Bonner, Ph.D., President and CEO of the Saint Louis Zoo, said "Face coverings can help minimize virus transmission from asymptomatic individuals. Keeping our animal and veterinary care staff safe and protected is the best measure to keep our animals safe and at a minimal risk of exposure to a virus we know very little about."
Regarding the reopening of the Zoo, Bonner said "I am excited to share the news about our reopening and I hope everyone knows that the Saint Louis Zoo values safety. I am amazed at the incredible care our staff has provided to the animals during this pandemic as well as the diligent work underway in preparation to provide our guests with safe and memorable experiences."
Begining on June 8, visitors can make reservations for their future visit at the Zoo's web site or by phone. The Zoo will be open seven days a week.
Until then, families can enjoy daily videos from the Zoo's animal care team, as well as live webcams of the animals and virtual learning opportunities at stlzoo.org
The Zoo has previously announced it will not hold summer camps in 2020.
Photo: Saint Louis Zoo
Visit with summer camp representatives and learn about summer camps and activities for all ages at this free Summer Camps and Activities Fair sponsored by the Lindbergh School District. Families from all school districts are invited to attend.
Explore songs, finger plays, music and more during this Music & Movement class for ages 0-6. Some sessions are held in person at various branches of the St. Louis County Library. Some sessions are virtual.
Visit The Magic House for Toddler Time, a special early-morning program for toddlers. Children age 1-4 can take part in exhibits and exclusive interactive activities designed just for little ones. There are new themes every week!
Open Gym at Miss Kelly's Gym is an opportunity for any child to have supervised free play in the gym. They can work on existing skills, try something new, or simply play around. It is completely up to them! Open Gym is open to both members and non-members ages 12 and under.
Get ready to checkmate your Valentine's Day crafting! Bring your kids and creativity to the World Chess Hall of Fame for Valentine's Day arts & crafts projects all day.