Day Programs

Maple Tapping and Tasting

Join us at the Zoo’s Bowyer Farm for a fun afternoon full of history, hands-on activities, and storytelling all about maple tapping! This program offers a sweet peek into the history of this age-old tradition and offers an opportunity to participate in the maple tapping process. At the end, participants will be able to taste the precursor to maple syrup, fresh from the tree! This program is sure to be fun for the whole family.

Pawpaw Palooza

It’s time for a pawpaw-packed adventure! We’ll hike, taste, and dive into the rich history and folklore of America’s biggest native fruit—the pawpaw! This Ohio state fruit is truly unique and often described as a delightful blend of banana, mango, and melon, with a hint of citrus. The pawpaw is the largest edible fruit native to North America and has a rich cultural and historical significance. We’ll explore our pawpaw patches, indulge in some homemade pawpaw ice cream, and enjoy a morning filled with fun activities and captivating stories. And don’t miss out on preparing your own pawpaw seeds for winter, so you can start growing your very own pawpaw tree next spring. Bring the family for a morning of discovery and  deliciousness!

This program takes place at our Bowyer Farm in Lebanon, located at 2210 Mason Montgomery Road, Mason, OH 45040. These are outdoor programs—please dress for the weather and with comfortable walking shoes to walk approximately 1–2 miles on uneven terrain. Participants may wish to bring a filled reusable water bottle.

Note: Perfect for families with children of all ages, or the pawpaw enthusiast. All attendees 3+ years must register. At least one adult must register per group. Children under 3 years are free. Price is per person.

Date: Sept. 5, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m.– 12:00 p.m.
Pricing: $20 Members | $25 Non-members

Access for All Program: W.I.L.D Time

W.I.L.D Time (Wonder, Inclusion, Learning, Discovery) on September 28, 2025 is a program through the Cincinnati Zoo’s Access for All initiative designed for families that have a child member with developmental disability status.

The whole family is invited to come and enjoy part of the Zoo afterhours when there will be less guests and lower stimulation. Families will engage with activity stations as they complete a “passport” and collect stamps. Stations include games, crafts, activities, and live animal encounters. The theme for this evening is “What’s on the Menu?”

There are staggered start times. Stations will taken approximately 1 hr to complete and participants are welcome to stay until 7:00pm. 

Hurray for Mom

Celebrate Mother’s Day with us at the Zoo as we shine a spotlight on the incredible moms of the animal kingdom! From the gentle jaws of an alligator carefully guarding her clutch to the opossum’s cozy pouch and the okapi mom’s patience through a 15-month pregnancy, animal moms go to amazing lengths to care for their young. Join us for a family-friendly program where we’ll explore the unique ways Zoo moms protect, nurture, and raise their offspring. It’s the perfect way to honor all mother figures—animal and human alike—on this special holiday!

Date: May 9

Time: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Pricing: $20 Members | $25 Non-members

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Hurray for Dad

We’re so glad to have animal dads! Fathers in the animal world might fill the role of protector, nurturer, teacher, food-provider, playmate, and so much more. Join us as we celebrate the father figures in your life by seeing special animal encounters, playing games together, and taking a hike around the zoo as we learn what wild dads are all about!

June 14

10am-12pm

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The Zoo Gourmet

December 14 10:00am-12:00pm

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 games, a hike around the Zoo, and with the help of animal ambassadors, we’ll learn about why different animals eat different foods, and how the Zoo manages its many menus.

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