The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens remains open, wildlights, hiking trails accessible, gift shop remains open inside.

by Publisher CoachellaValley | November 13, 2020 8:50 pm

Gyms, restaurants, movie theaters and places of worship are among the entities affected by Newsom’s order placing The Coachella Valley back to the Purple, more restrictive Tier 1.

The Living Desert Zoo & Garden’s current operations has not been impacted by the change.

County health officials announced in October that the California Department of Public Health had downgraded Riverside County from the red tier 2 back to the purple tier 1, or most restrictive tier, meaning some businesses that had reopened in recent weeks will have to close again or move their operations outside.

The announcement, however, had no impact on the zoo’s operations.

Zoo attendees will still have access to the indoor gift shop amid reduced guest capacity for distancing, and food and beverage sales will continue to be offered on a take-away. No indoor seating is available.

Three nature preserve hiking trails accessed through the zoo that reopened a few weeks ago this will also remain open for recreation.

After shuttering for nearly three months, the Living Desert reopened to the public on June 15. Zoo officials worked with both state and county officials in creating specific precautions, which remain in effect to guard against COVID-19 and include a limit on entry to 200 guests per hour, with a maximum of 1,000 guests per day, including both members and daily visitors.

Remember all tickets must also be purchased in advance, including tickets for members, using the zoo’s online system. Tickets can be reserved up to two weeks in advance for contact-free and expedited admissions.

Gates open up daily at 8 a.m., with the zoo and amenities open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last admission at 4 p.m.

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