Oregon Zoo, Portland, Oregon

What: The Oregon Zoo
Where: Portland, Oregon, in Washington Park, off Hwy 26 (follow the signs)
When: August 2009
Why: To see the animals!
How much: $69 for a regular family membership, $94 for a deluxe with admission to summer concerts and guess passes
How long: a few hours to all day, however long you can last

What's cool: A baby elephant, elephant baths every morning

Polar bears:

2 petting farms with goats:

Tips: You have to buy a ticket or get one with your membership card, but you don't show your ticket until you exit the main plaza and go down to the zoo. Restrooms and lockers are by the entrance, and the gift ship is across the plaza.

Get a map when they scan your ticket. Check for animal keeper talks and feeding times, and the animal shows. Don't try to see it all in one day! You have to go down the hill to see all the animals, so if you leave your lunch in a locker at the top, it's a long hike back up when you're hungry. Food is outrageously expensive and is priced similarly everywhere. At least bring your own snacks.

Feeding the lorikeets is fun and costs $3 I think for a cup of nectar? We didn't do it this time. There's also a train through the park that is extra. The new lion, cheetah & other African predator exhibits open soon and will be really cool!