Milwaukee County Zoo to unveil new parking system in effort to improve traffic congestion
CBS 58 MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee County Zoo is introducing a new parking system.
In an effort to eliminate traffic congestion on Bluemound Road and make entry faster, the zoo will transition to a license plate-based parking system in all lots effective Tuesday, April 21.
Going forward, guests will drive directly into the parking lots, park, and scan a QR code to complete payment on their own using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a credit card. Members can register their license plate with a scan of their membership card to activate their free parking.
The zoo says as part of the upgrade, their entrance booths will no longer be staffed, eliminating lines to purchase tickets. Admission tickets and membership passes will now be scanned in the U.S. Bank Gathering Place, and guests purchasing tickets on-site can access an auxiliary ticket booth just outside the building's entrance.
A new signalized entry at Bluemound and 99th Street will include a pedestrian crosswalk with signals. Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley approved $13.6 million in capital funds in the 2026 budget for the front entry reconfiguration project, according to the zoo.
“The Milwaukee County Zoo is a beloved spot in our community that brings people to Milwaukee from across the state and region, and I am excited that our investment will aid in the guest experience,” County Executive Crowley said. “Pedestrian safety is an important issue, and I am pleased that the zoo is making this a central part of the front entry reconfiguration. Improving the speed in which guests can enter the zoo will enhance the community experience in surrounding neighborhoods and ensure the zoo remains a premier destination.”
The zoo says parking ambassadors will be available throughout the lots to assist guests with the new process.
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