Cincinnati Zoo lifting mask requirements for fully-vaccinated guests starting Wednesday

CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden announced they are changing some of its mask requirements on June 2 in accordance with changes to COVID restrictions by the CDC and local health officials.

Zoo officials say they are lifting most mask-wearing requirements for fully-vaccinated guests and employees.

Unvaccinated guests should continue to wear masks, and masks will only be required in some close human-animal contact areas, the zoo said.

“Pack a mask if you want to participate in giraffe feedings, pet a goat, or interact with the Galapagos tortoises,” said Cincinnati Zoo director Thane Maynard. “They will also be required for private animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.”

Zoo officials say they are pursuing vaccinations for animals that participate in all of these programs and are planning to lift restrictions once they are protected.

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