El Paso Zoo Update: Masks No Longer Required, Indoor Exhibits to Open Up

If you are fully vaccinated or simply don’t want to wear a face mask, the next time you go to the El Paso Zoo you won’t have to. Visitors are no longer required to mask up, although it is recommended, and city officials highly encourage everyone to continue wearing one.

The new policy is in response to Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order that bans cities and counties from mandating masks in the continuing fight against COVID-19. In a post on its social media, officials said the zoo will continue to implement other health and safety protocols, including social distancing measures and hand sanitizer stations.

Indoor Exhibits Reopen May 31

Here’s another sign zoo life is getting back to where it was before Covid. Memorial Day will mark another post-pandemic shutdown milestone with the reopening of several indoor exhibits and attractions previously closed because of COVID-19 restrictions.

Beginning May 31, guests will be able to go inside the Asia Forest Complex, Ranch House in the Chihuahuan Desert, and Aviary.

In addition, kids will be allowed to ride the carousel and train, and daily Sea Lion presentations will resume. Some shows, animal demonstrations, ropes course, and giraffe feedings remain temporarily suspended.

Memorial Day at the Zoo

Although closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, Monday, May 31, will be an exception. The zoo will be open Memorial Day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission information, zoo hours, and Covid guidelines can be found on the zoo website. Also, please stay out of the animal enclosures.