Special Events

Get a sneak peek to opening weekend.

(Last Friday of the month)

Pack up the stroller, put on your walking shoes and bring your little one on an early learning adventure as we stroll through the Zoo. Make new friends while you visit animal exhibits, meet a friendly animal ambassador, read a story, and more along the way!

We will begin with a guided stroll around the Zoo, and we will finish with a story, craft and a special animal encounter with one of the Zoo’s ambassador animals!

Advance registration is required:

25 April ~ 30 May ~ 27 June ~
25 July ~ 29 August ~ 26 Sept.

Cost: $25 fee includes one child ages 2 to 5 years and one caretaker. Each additional guest will be $10 fee
Parking is included

Spend a special day making memories that will last a lifetime. The Washington Park Zoo will offer free admission for all mothers and grandmothers with a paid child admission.

Military members are honored with free admission all day with proper ID for active duty, retired military, DOD civilians, and reserve/guard members.

Have you ever wondered what happens after everyone leaves the zoo?
Explore the WPZoo after our normal hours as the animals wind down under the cooler setting sun temperatures. We have extended the visiting hours for this two part summer event series. Although the Observation Tower will be closed during the event, the Gift Shop and Concessions will be open until 7 pm for visitors. No reservations are needed and regular admission fees apply.

Spend a special day making memories that will last a lifetime. The Washington Park Zoo will offer free admission for all fathers and grandfathers with a paid admission.

Advance registration is required starting on April 3rd.
• June 16-19 • June 23-26
• July 7-10 • July 14-17
• July 21-24 • July 28 - 31

Have you ever wondered what happens after everyone leaves the zoo?
Explore the WPZoo after our normal hours as the animals wind down under the cooler setting sun temperatures. We have extended the visiting hours for this two part summer event series. Although the Observation Tower will be closed during the event, the Gift Shop and Concessions will be open until 7 pm for visitors. No reservations are needed and regular admission fees apply.

Explore the zoo in a new way in our new family day camp experience. Investigate animals up close and discover what you can do at home to help our native wildlife. Plus, there will be plenty of opportunities for photos of this shared experience that will be lifetime keepsakes. For Families ages 3 years and up. Advance registration is required and MUST include at least one adult with any children registrations. Cost: $40 for each attendee

Spend a special day making memories that will last a lifetime. The Washington Park Zoo will offer free admission for all grandparents with a paid admission.

Zoo camps for adults explore all kinds of zoo-related topics, with behind-the-scenes tours, guest speakers, and more interactive experiences. At this zoo camp, learn about zoo exhibit design and all the decisions that go into the process. Advance registration is required.
Cost: $40 for each attendee

A safe trick-or-treating experience for your ghosts and goblins! Area businesses sponsor booths along the decorated zoo paths and hand out candy to the kids. Advance tickets are recommended due to limited supply. Cost: Regular admission rates apply