The California Condor was a common sight along the Columbia River in Lewis and Clark's day. By the early 1980's, there were only twenty-two left on the face of the planet, all in California.

Today, thanks to a massive effort to re-populate the species via in-captivity pairing, there are some two-hundred members. But their recovery is far from assured.

The Oregon Zoo has undertaken its own recovery effort whose ultimate goal is the re-introduction of the species into the protected wilderness area around the Columbia River Gorge. In short, to bring them home.

For now, they live out their days in a vast, outdoor aviary designed specifically to mimic their habitat in the wild.

If you have never seen one up close before, I urge you to come take a look. They are larger than any flying bird you will ever see, unless you go to Peru. And though black and white practically from head to toe, their plumage shines and reflects the light like dark, polished metal.

If that doesn't suit your fancy, I will tell you that, as with all big birds, if you wait around long enough, they will do something so awe-inspiring that it will take your breath away, and something so goofy that you will laugh out loud.

Either way, you won't be bored for a second.

http://www.oregonzoo.org/discover/new-zoo/condors-columbia

Hotels near Oregon Zoo

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Top Oregon Zoo Hotel Reviews

University Place Hotel & Conference Center

10/10 Excellent

"Clean room,staff are friendly"

Hotel Vance, Portland, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"The service from the hotel was great from the front lobby to the custodian's, upon entering Andrew was a lot of help and even gave us some spots to grab a bite to eat and informed us about the city. One of the things we liked was the room service, one night when we got there they had cleaned up our rooms and made the sheets, a final touch that we really loved was that we had some Chicken plushies and they put those on top of the beds after making it & thought it was adorable and super nice of them ! 😊 Would definitely recommend staying at the hotel, only thing is what we didn’t like was the open shower.. the design makes it for the heat go not stay trapped in. Besides that everything with our stay was amazing !!"

Heathman Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"From curbside valet/bellman, to front desk, to restaurant staff everyone I came in contact with provided great customer service. The room was very spacious. Enjoyed my sitting are. The bed was very comfortable. I really liked the steamer vs having a iron and ironing board. The robe was a nice touch too. Only downside was the bathroom/shower area was small/narrow. I would recommend this hotel and if have business in the area again will stay here."

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Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Oregon Zoo?

Oregon Zoo is located in a welcoming area of Portland known for its stunning river views and cycling. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, take a look at the 16 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.

Where is the best place to stay near Oregon Zoo?

The Paramount Hotel is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this hotel offers a restaurant and a 24-hour fitness centre. It's located 1.7 mi (2.7 km) from Oregon Zoo. Other good choices within 5 miles include Courtyard by Marriott Portland City Center and The Duniway Portland A Hilton Hotel.

How many hotels can I expect to find near Oregon Zoo?

Expedia has 16 hotels and other accommodation options within a mile from Oregon Zoo.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Oregon Zoo, will I receive a refund?

Yes! The majority of hotel bookings are fully refundable if cancelled before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of check in. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you might still have the option to cancel and get a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Put your dates in and click on "Search", then filter by "fully refundable" to get the top deals on offer near Oregon Zoo.

What can I see and do near Oregon Zoo?

Portland Art Museum, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and Oregon Historical Society Museum feature a variety of fascinating exhibits to see while you're in town. Pittock Mansion, Trevett-Nunn House and McMenamins Crystal Ballroom are notable landmarks to explore if you're in the area. You can catch a show at Portland'5 Centers for the Arts, Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall and Keller Auditorium.

How can I get to Oregon Zoo?

You can walk to nearby metro stations including Bancroft St Stop, S Lowell & Bond Stop and S Moody & Gaines Stop. If you'd like to venture farther outside of the area, consider renting a car to take in more sights.

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