Little Rock, Arkansas – The Little Rock Zoo is changing its operating schedule because of an extended period of dangerously high temperatures expected across the area. The temporary adjustment is intended to reduce outdoor exposure and protect the animals, employees and visitors who spend time at the zoo.
The new hours will begin Wednesday, August 12, and remain in place through August 31, 2026. During that period, the zoo will open earlier and close in the afternoon, avoiding some of the hottest hours of the day.
The zoo will be open from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m., with the final admission allowed at 1:30 p.m. Visitors planning a trip will therefore need to arrive earlier than they might under the facility’s regular schedule.
Other areas of the zoo will also operate on shortened schedules. The café will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., while rides will run from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The gift shop will remain open until 2 p.m., matching the zoo’s adjusted closing time.
Zoo officials said the decision was made after reviewing the weather forecast, which calls for temperatures to climb to potentially dangerous levels over the coming days. Limiting the amount of time people and animals spend outdoors during the hottest part of the day is intended to help reduce the risks associated with the heat.
The zoo has been monitoring weather forecasts and advisories and said it will continue watching conditions as the month progresses. Officials will also review the longer-range forecast and make changes if weather conditions require further adjustments.
For visitors, the schedule change means that a morning visit will be the best option during the temporary period. Guests should also be aware that individual attractions, food service and the gift shop will not all operate for exactly the same amount of time.
The Little Rock Zoo is scheduled to return to its normal operating hours on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. The temporary schedule is expected to remain in effect until then unless changing weather conditions lead to another announcement.
Officials emphasized that safety remains the primary reason for the change. High temperatures can create difficult conditions for people working and visiting outdoors, while animals can also be affected by extreme heat.
The zoo is asking visitors for patience and understanding as it responds to the forecast. Staff will continue to monitor the conditions and provide updates if the schedule needs to change.
People planning a visit are encouraged to check for the latest information before heading to the zoo. Updates will be posted on the Little Rock Zoo’s Facebook page and its website.
With temperatures expected to remain a concern through much of August, the temporary schedule gives the zoo a way to continue welcoming visitors while reducing exposure during the most intense heat of the day. For now, the earlier opening and 2 p.m. closing will remain in place through August 31.
