Following the extreme heat Little Rock Zoo shortened admission hours

Little Rock, Arkansas – The Little Rock Zoo announced Thursday they would be operating on a modified admission schedule due to excessive heat advisories and warnings.

According to the zoo, these temporary hours will be effective immediately and last until further notice.

The zoo will be open from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m., with the last admission at 1:30 p.m. in order to limit outdoor exposure during the hottest part of the day.

To best accommodate guests who arrive early, the restaurant at the zoo, Café Africa, along with the train and carousel will also be opening and closing earlier.

With a special morning menu being introduced this weekend, Café Africa will be open from 9 a.m. until the park closes at 2 p.m.

The train and carousel will both start operating at 9 a.m., with the carousel stopping at 12 p.m. and the train stopping at 2 p.m.

“We will be following the weather forecast and weather advisories closely and will assess the need to continue our modified hours in the coming weeks,” zoo Director Susan Altrui said in an email. “The safety of our guests, staff, and animals is our priority. We appreciate your patience and understanding.”