WILD ENCOUNTERS: Behind the Scenes Tours!
See the Zoo the way the keepers do! Take a guided tour behind the scenes for a closer look at one of the amazing locations listed below.
NEW: Manatee Coast!
View these amazing marine mammals from a totally new vantage point! Find out why the manatees are here and what it takes to care for them.
Discovery Reef
You’ve seen it from the front, now come see our 90,000 gallon Aquarium from behind and above! You’ll be amazed to hear about and see all of the hard work that goes into running our own little ocean!
Dr. C. Joseph Cross Animal Health Center
From emergency care to regular check-ups, from the smallest fish to the largest elephant, find out how our incredible Veterinary Staff, in conjunction with our Keeper Staff, manage the health of over 10,000 individual animals!
*Please note that we reserve the right to cancel a tour at any time to ensure the safety of our animals, staff and guests. If this should happen your tour will be rescheduled or you will receive a refund.
**Please inquire at the number below about wheelchair and stroller accessibility on tours.
Cost per person:
Members: $15
Non-Members: $20
Times and Dates:
Spring: Daily from March 30-May 24
11 a.m. Animal Health
2 p.m. Manatees
3 p.m. Discovery Reef
Summer: Daily from May 25-September 2
10 a.m. Discovery Reef
11 a.m. Manatees
1 p.m. Animal Health
2 p.m. Manatees
3 p.m. Discovery Reef
4 p.m. Animal Health
*Please call (614) 645-3488 for questions regarding Wild Encounters Tours.
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Twilight Tours
Enjoy an exclusive tour after hours!
Relax and enjoy the ride as your guide drives you through the Zoo! You’ll have the place all to yourself and up to 16 guests can embark on this 2 hour journey. View animals without the crowds of people; enjoy light refreshments along the way and a keepsake to remember your trip. These tours are great for celebrating any occasion and also perfect for families with young children and grandparents.
Tours begin at 5:30 PM in the Spring and Fall and at 7:30 during the Summer.
CLICK HERE to book your tour online up to 3 days in advance or stop by or call the Education Building from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm to check on today’s availability.
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FAMILY NIGHT HIKES – An After Hours Adventure
See the Zoo after everyone else has gone home! Join our expert Education staff as we lead you on a guided hike around one of the Zoo regions. Each month we feature a new region so you will experience new animals and activities each time you come! Pre-registration required.
Regions:
June - North America
July - Polar Frontier
August - Shores
September - Asia Quest
Time:
7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. through Sep. 2
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. starting Sep. 3
Cost:
Non-members: $15 per person
Members: $10 per person
Children under 2 are free. No reservation required for children under 2.
*Zoo admission included