What's there not to like about this zoo in the mid...

What's there not to like about this zoo in the middle of the City of Portland? Situated in the west hills right off the Portland downtown area, it is a wonderful place to take children and adults alike. The enclosures for the animals are roomy, made to simulate the natural habitat of the various creatures, and are well taken care of. We love the outdoor theater where they have various shows and entertainment. The Zoo train is a must any day of the year, but especially in December during the holiday season - go at night for a magical trip, especially if there is snow on the ground, which we sadly don't often have during the holiday season.

You can eat at the zoo, and buy mementos at the zoo store. MAX, light rail, has a stop at the zoo in the tunnel that is the second deepest for light rail/subways in the world. On busy days this might be your best option to visit the zoo; use a TriMet Park & Ride and then hop on MAX.

The Oregon Zoo offers a lot of education to their visitors and to school classes that come to visit. It is a place to appreciate the amazing animals that are cared for both humanely and lovingly.

Among our family favorites: the Lorikeets. They are beautiful birds that you can feed from a tiny cup of fruit juice that you buy for a few cent ($.25 last we did it). They are lovely birds and a blast to be around if you are a bird person. In the warmer summer months you go into a large outdoor area that has been blocked off with screens so the birds can fly freely in an area the size of a school gymnasium. They will land on your shoulders, arms and hands - it is a lot of fun.

The Oregon Zoo: Highly recommended.