Zoo "Extras"

• Our Endangered Species Carousel is a popular ride! With lights and traditional “old-time” carousel music, it’s a nostalgic experience that both kids and adults alike can enjoy. Each hand-painted animal figure represents a threatened or endangered species from around the world
• No reservations are required to participate. Tickets are required for all riders regardless of age. Kids under 48 inches tall must have a paid adult standing beside them. Tickets are sold in the Gift Shop or in the Green Concession Stand (available seasonally)
• The ride is ADA compliant and includes a bench seat that accommodates wheelchairs
• Hours are:
  • In summer, typically daily from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. daily. You can check the sign inside of the Visitor Center building for today’s schedule when you arrive
  • Closed in severe or inclement weather

• The Discovery Zone offers a multitude of activities for kids and families. With plenty of benches and lots of shade, you can feel free to stay awhile! All Discovery Zone activities are free with zoo admission
• Kids can enjoy self-guided, hands-on play with a nature playground, mud kitchen, dinosaur dig box, magnification station and balance scale, a rope tunnel climber, scavenger hunt and habitat puzzle games, and more!
• Smile, say “cheese!” and make some memories with family-friendly photo opportunities
• Three animal habitats provide homes for animals that used to live behind the scenes
• Discovery Zone is closed in September through early November for Halloween event needs; from mid-November through April, availability will depend on weather and snow conditions. The Discovery Zone is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, closed only for private parties and special rentals.
• The Discovery Zone can be rented for private programs, including corporate events, and private parties! Email us to learn more about this opportunity.

• Kids of all ages (and grown-ups, too!) will love panning for gemstones and treasures at the NEW Zoo Mining Company mining sluice. This fun, hands-on activity includes a take-home bag of real gems and precious stones!
• Simply pour your bag of rough into the sluice tray of your choice, then watch as the waters rinse away the sand and debris to reveal special treasures
• Purchase your bag of rough at the Gift Shop or Red Concession Stand (available seasonally) and have fun seeing what stones and gems you find! 
• Mining Sluice is open daily when weather permits

Giraffe & Children’s Zoo Animal Feedings

• All ages welcome!
• No reservations required
• Visit our Animal Feedings page to learn more about these experiences