Over 1 1/2 million light bulbs to dazzle and amaze you this Christmas? Zoo Lights, Portland's most popular holiday attraction began last Friday with 1.6 million lights on display. This is the 29th year that the Oregon Zoo has hosted this iconic event. It attracts millions of visitors over the past two decades.
If you're planning on going to Zoo Light are some tips, tricks, and secrets to really enjoying the park and getting the maximum out of your holiday cheer..jpg)
Consider taking the Tri-Met or the MAX. As parking can be limited, these two public transportation options can offer discounts and can let you avoid the crowds.
If you're planning on driving, arrive closer to 4:00 PM or earlier to avoid parking further away.
The train ride is not the main feature. Many of the lights are long walking paths so don't simply go on the train and forget the rest of the park. This year, a carousel ride is added to the mix.
Consider buying your tickets online to bypass the line at the entrance. Prices are $14.95 for adults, $12.95 for seniors, and children ages 3 to 11 is just $9.95.
The park is open from 5 to 9 PM until January 1, 2017.
Consider going Monday through Thursday until December 15 when tickets are $5 less per person.
Consider becoming a member of the zoo. You get free admission and 10% off the gift shop and food purchases. You also get a discount on Zoo Lights carousel and train tickets.
To save money on food, consider eating before you get to the park. There will be a few specialty items for sale such as elephant ears, and cocoa.
Try to get your family or a bunch of friends together as groups of 20 or more get a 20% discount and reservations are not required.
Complete the Zoo Light scavenger hunt for a chance to win a gift card.
The Oregon Zoo is located at 4001 Southwest Canyon Rd. in Portland. Make this holiday tradition for your friends and family.
Image By Christine Zenino from Chicago, US (Holiday Zoo Lights) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons