Evening Programs | Cincinnati Zoo

Find an educational and fun evening program that fits your family best! Seasonal Program Guide

NEW FOR 2025! Haunted Safari: Spirits of the Zoo

(Ages 16 and up)

When the lights go out and the zoo falls silent, something else begins to stir. Join us this October for Haunted Safari: Spirits of the Zoo, a 9-11pm tour filled with mysterious sightings in Jungle Trails, eerie encounters in Africa, and spine-tingling stories in Education that make our zoo’s history a little spooky. Guided by lantern light, you’ll explore hidden corners of the zoo where strange sounds, shadowy figures, glowing eyes and unexplained moments have left their mark. Along the way, hear chilling tales of haunted habitats, disembodied voices, phantom footsteps and even a stalking ghost lioness. Listen closely, because some stories are still unfolding.

*Note: This is a hiking tour, not an animal tour and designed for ages 16 and up. Wear your walking shoes and come prepared for any weather. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Zoo Night Hike

Discover the magic of the Zoo after hours as we explore a new theme each season! Enjoy fun educational activities, an exclusive hike through the Zoo while it’s closed to the public, and up-close encounters with our animal ambassadors. It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!

Note: All attendees 3+ years must register. One adult required per group. Children under 3 years are free. Price is per person.

Dates: select Fridays and Saturdays

Time: 6:00–7:30 p.m.

Pricing: $20 Members | $25 Non-members

Kids touching snake, overnight adventure, smiling kids, meeting an animal, snake, ball python, happy

NEW! Adults’ Night Out

Need a few hours to tackle your winter to-do list or simply take a night off? Drop the kids off for an evening of wild fun at the Zoo! While you enjoy a stress-free evening, your kids will enjoy pizza, games, a movie, and even an up-close encounter with some of our animal ambassadors. You can drop off and pick up anytime between 6:00–9:00 p.m. We’ll make sure your little ones have a safe and unforgettable night.

For children 4 years and older. All children must be fully potty-trained without assistance. This program takes place during PNC Festival of Lights, please allow extra time for heavy traffic.

DATES: Dec. 5 & 13
TIME: 6:00–9:00 p.m.
PRICING: Members: $35 for first child, $30 for each additional child Non-members: $40 for first child, $35 for each additional child

History and Hijinks

How well do YOU know your Cincinnati Zoo? The honor of “second oldest Zoo in the nation” comes with a lot of history and some epic tales!

Step back in time with storyteller extraordinaire Gary Denzler, as he leads you on a fun and factual story-based historical tour. Gary’s 50 years of experience is perfect for sharing tales of the people and animals that have made this Zoo what it is today.

Note: This program is geared towards participants 16 years and older.

Dates: August 5 & 19, 2025

Time: 6:00 p.m.– 8:00 p.m

Private Cart Tour

Imagine spending an evening at the Zoo, zipping around to your favorite destinations. This two-hour private tour will take you and five of your friends all around the Zoo choose-your-own-adventure style. Led by an experienced Zoo Educator, your group will learn all about the Zoo, its amazing animals, conservation projects, and more! Come ready to ask questions and get the inside scoop.

Note: These tours are for ages 12+ and run May-September to avoid any bad weather for the cart! Please note that there is some walking involved in this tour to visit animal buildings or certain habitats. The cart can only get us so far!

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