A Welcome Environment for All
The Little Rock Zoo is committed to creating an experience that can be enjoyed by everyone! Our commitment to accessibility means that our facilities are designed to accommodate guests of all abilities. From wheelchair-accessible pathways to sensory-friendly exhibits, we aim to create an inclusive environment for everyone. If you have specific accessibility needs or require assistance during your visit, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly staff. We’re here to make your time at the Little Rock Zoo enjoyable and stress-free for all.
In 2023 the Little Rock Zoo partnered with KultureCity® to make the Zoo and our programs and events Sensory InclusiveTM. Sensory sensitivities are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions. This initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests with a sensory issue, no matter their age or ability.
Sensory Bags
KultureCity® Sensory Bags, equipped with noise-canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and KCVIP lanyards will be available to all guests at the Safari Trader Gift Shop who may feel overwhelmed by the Zoo environment. Please return any borrowed sensory bags to the Gift Shop by 4:00 PM.
Social Story
A social story is a simple, easy-to-read guide that helps visitors know what to expect in a situation or at a place. It uses clear language and visuals to reduce anxiety, explain routines, and make experiences more predictable and comfortable.
We’ve created a social story specifically for visiting the Little Rock Zoo, so you can see what to expect during your visit and feel more prepared and confident.
Mobility devices are available at the Safari Trader Gift Shop on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Manual Wheelchairs – $13
- Electric Scooters – $30
- Double Stroller – $13
Stop by the gift shop to rent your device, and please return it to the Gift Shop by 4:00 PM.
The Little Rock Zoo welcomes guests with disabilities who use service animals as determined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We appreciate your cooperation in helping us ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for you, your service animal, our Zoo residents, and all other guests.
For guests requiring the use of a service animal please be aware of the unique challenges presented by the Zoo environment.
The guidelines below are designed to keep everyone—humans and animals alike—safe.
What is a Service Animal?
Under the ADA, a service animal is a dog or miniature horse that has been individually trained to perform specific tasks directly related to a person’s disability. Service animals are working partners, not pets.
Animals that provide emotional support, therapy, comfort, or companionship but are not trained to perform tasks do not meet the ADA definition of a service animal and cannot be admitted to the Zoo.
Arrival and Check- In
When you arrive, please stop by Admissions to:
- Review important information about your visit.
- Receive the current Service Animal Map, which highlights restricted areas.
Handlers are fully responsible for the care and control of their service animal throughout their visit. Zoo staff are not permitted to assist with the handling or care of service animals.
Service Animal Expectations
To keep both service animals and Zoo animals safe, the following rules apply:
- Service animals must remain on a secure, non-retractable leash, harness, or tether and under the handler’s control at all times. Retractable leashes are not permitted, as they allow too much distance between the animal and handler and can create safety concerns. If a disability prevents the use of a standard leash, alternate effective control methods may be approved in certain areas.
- Service animals must remain out of restricted areas and must not come into contact with fences, mesh, glass, or other barriers around exhibits.
- If either the service animal or a Zoo animal shows signs of stress—such as barking, growling, climbing, jumping, or erratic movements—the handler must calmly move away from the habitat right away.
- Handlers are responsible for cleaning up after their service animals. Miniature horse handlers are asked to diaper their animals to help maintain a clean environment.
Restricted Areas
Some Zoo animals may react strongly to the presence of service animals. For the safety of all, service animals are not permitted in certain areas, including:
- Arkansas Heritage Farm
- Tropical Bird House
- Big Cat Area
- Cheetah Outpost Viewing Decks
- Viewing windows for Lions, Orangutans and Gorillas
These areas may change, so please check in at Admissions for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Important Notes
- If a handler is unable to maintain control of their service animal, Zoo staff may ask that the animal be removed from the premises.
- The Zoo reserves the right to update accessibility guidelines, including restricted areas, as needed to protect both guests and animals.
For questions or help planning your visit, please contact Guest Services at 501-661-7235.
Little Rock Zoo
1 Zoo Drive
Little Rock, AR 72205
501-661-7200
Hours of Operation
9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Last admission 3:30 p.m.
Zoo grounds close at 4:00 pm
