Family Programs

The Zoo is fun for everyone!

Looking for an educational experience the whole family can enjoy together? Our fun, daytime programs, early bird and evening night hikes are sure to fill the bill.

New! Register Online

Who can participate?

  • Open to all ages, unless otherwise noted.

When are Family programs available?

  • Year round. See below for dates and topics.

How much are Family programs?

  • Cost per person: $6/ Member - $10/ Non-Member
  • Starting January 1, 2010 prices will increase by $1.

Where do Family programs take place?

  • Most occur in the Harold C. Schott Education Center. Confirmation materials will be received once you have registered.

Questions? Contact us at (513) 559-7767 or email registrars@cincinnatizoo.org

Fall Dates and Topics

Topic Description Dates
THE ZOO GOURMET Back by popular demand! Food is a huge part of celebrating holidays. At the Zoo, our animals feast year-round on carefully planned diets. Join us for a holiday food frenzy and learn how we feed thousands of animals every day. Through a game, close encounters, and a behind the scenes tour of the Zoo's commissary, find out why different animals eat different foods and how the Zoo manages its menus. At least one adult must register per family group. Register Online Nov. 7, 14, 21, Dec. 5, 12, or 19: 10-11:30 am or 1-2:30 pm
MANY, MANY MOONS AGO Join us for an afternoon of traditional tales charismatically presented by local Native American storyteller, Fred Shaw. The entire family will enjoy stories of the animals that live around us such as opossums, turtles, and hawks and visits from several Zoo animals. Register Online Nov. 21: 1-2:30 pm

Family Night Hike Dates and Topics

Topic Description Dates
CREEPY CRAWLIES Would you like to prowl the Zoo after hours when the crowds have gone home? Well, come on down for these fun-filled, family-oriented evening adventures at the Zoo! Register Online Oct. 2, 10, 17, or 24: 6-7:30 pm

Winter Dates and Topics

Topic Description Dates
THE ZOO GOURMET Back by popular demand! Food is a huge part of celebrating holidays. At the Zoo, our animals feast year-round on carefully planned diets. Join us for a holiday food frenzy and learn how we feed thousands of animals every day. Through a game, close encounters, and a behind the scenes tour of the Zoo's commissary, find out why different animals eat different foods and how the Zoo manages its menus. At least one adult must register per family group. Register Online Nov. 7, 14, 21, Dec. 5, 12, or 19: 10-11:30 am or 1-2:30 pm
SEASON'S GREENINGS As the holidays approach, we get into the giving spirit. Why not give back to Mother Earth? During this family-oriented workshop, we’ll make some
eco-friendly holiday crafts and learn some tips for making the holiday season (and the year ahead) greener. Register Online
Dec. 12: 3-4:30pm
POLE-TO-POLE Brr…it’s cold out there! So, how come some animals seem right at home in the snow? We’ll learn about the special adaptations that allow certain animals to get along just fine in a winter wonderland. Register Online Feb. 6: 10-11:30am or 1-2:30pm

Family Overnights at the Zoo

Join the Zoo's overnight program, Nocturnal Adventures, for special events designed for parents and children, ages 5 and up. Pitch your tent and camp out at the Zoo! Or celebrate winter during our family Wild Winter Nights Overnight.

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