2025 May Buzz

Elevate Your Zoo Experience

We're rolling out the red carpet for Zoo Rendezvous on June 14! Zoo Rendezvous is a fresh and exciting adults-only VIP night at the Zoo that’s anything but ordinary!

Dress to impress as we roll out the red carpet for this new, sophisticated evening under the stars. This isn’t just a tasting — it’s a full-on experience, featuring full-size cocktails, fantastic food that’s sure to wow, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Enjoy unforgettable animal encounters, live music, and unique entertainment throughout the evening in a truly elevated Zoo experience. It’s the most stylish way to enjoy the Zoo!

The Zoo will close at 2 pm for this event.

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Free Day For Kids

Children’s Day will take place June 11, thanks to our generous sponsor, United Federal Credit Union.

From 10 am until last admission at 7:30 pm, admission to the Zoo will be free for children ages 14 and under. Children 14 and under must be accompanied to Children’s Day by a responsible adult.

During Children’s Day, United Federal Credit Union will be giving away bags to children at the event while supplies last and will contribute $5 to every new Youth Savings Account opened at one of their locations, when a coupon is presented from the event.

All of the Zoo's regular attractions will also be available, although they're not part of the free admission offer.

Details…

Register for Zoo Camp

Summer Zoo Camps are an amazing opportunity for kids from kindergarten through grade 6 to learn about animals, care for nature, and make memories.

Camps are five days long, Monday through Friday, and include discussions, games, activities, and animal encounters in an age-appropriate setting.

Camps are available for children entering grades K-1, 2-3, or 4-6. Before care and after care may also be available, depending on section. Pick the right camp for your child and give them the experience of a lifetime!

Don’t Miss Zoo Luminate

We're in the final days of Zoo Luminate! It ends on May 25, so you still have a few days left to catch the lantern magic!

It's been an incredible event, and we've loved seeing your pictures and videos. Thank you for making it a success!

We're also so thankful to our event partner, Tianyu Arts & Culture, as well as our sponsors, Visit South Bend Mishawaka, Indiana Michigan Power, WSBT, MacAllister Rentals, Lippert, Jayco, and Notre Dame Federal Credit Union.

Join us again next year!

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Zoo Hours Change Soon

From June 1 through August 31, our hours will be 10 am to 8 pm. Enjoy the Zoo in the evening when the weather is a little cooler and animals are often more active.

We also have Zoo Member Mornings starting soon! Zoo Member Mornings are exclusively for Zoo Members from 9-10 am on the first Saturday of the month, from June through September.

Become a Zoo Member...