Nashville Zoo to reopen with limited attendance on June 15

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The Nashville Zoo will reopen with a limited attendance on June 15.

The zoo announced the decision on Thursday, saying that for the first three days of reopening, only Nashville Zoo members will be able to visit.

The zoo will reopen to everyone on June 18. Advance tickets go on sale June 1.

“All of us here, staff and animals alike, have missed seeing our guests enjoying the Zoo,” said Zoo President and CEO Rick Schwartz. “Our team has been working this whole time to keep our animals happy and healthy and the Zoo looking beautiful. In appreciation to our members who have waited patiently through these tough times, we’re going to give them a chance to visit before we open to everyone else.”

Zoo officials said its capacity will be limited, and all employees will be screened daily and required to wear masks.

The Zoo will also require all guests to wear masks while on Zoo property with the exception of children three years old or younger.

All guests will be required to purchase or reserve a timed ticket for entry in advance. Members will have options to reserve entry at the top of each hour from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Non-members will be able to purchase timed tickets at the bottom of each hour from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Some inside areas, including the Unseen New World and the Historic Grassmere Home, will remain closed. Click here to see more of what you need to know.

The Zoofari Café will be open for take-out only with outdoor seating nearby. Concession stands will also be available.

The zoo will also provide hand sanitizers along the trails and signs that promote social distancing and good health practices.