Zoo Tales
2026-03-05 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-03-07 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-03-12 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-03-19 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-03-26 11:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York)
Join us for our popular story-time program, Zoo Tales! Each week features two new stories and an animal encounter with a zoo animal ambassador, all related to a changing monthly theme!

See signs posted in the Zoo’s Fountain Plaza to find out the location of Zoo Tales on the day of your visit. Free with general admission.

Theme: Bugs

Little Zoo
2026-03-09 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-03-22 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-03-30 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-04-13 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-04-19 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-04-27 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-05-10 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-05-11 11:00 - 11:30
Come join us as educators and volunteers offer themed animal interactions inside one of the Zoo’s classroom spaces. Our Little Zoo program offers our guests an intimate look at our animal ambassadors with station-based learning. This program is open to all who want to experience and grow in our Little Zoo. See signs posted in the Zoo’s Fountain Plaza to find out the location of Little Zoo on the day of your visit. Free with general admission.

Adult Night
2026-03-21 17:00 - 20:00
Purchase tickets here!

Have you been missing the golden age of gaming? 👾 Well, it’s time to level up by joining us for Adult Night: Game On on Saturday, March 21 from 5pm-8pm at the Virginia Zoo!

Consider us your Game Master on all things retro games! From tabletop 🎲 and cards 🃏, to game shows and video games – this night is your ultimate cheat code for a night of nostalgic fun for Zoo fans 21+! Aim for a new high score while playing vintage arcade games 🕹️, compete in classic game shows like Family Feud – Zoo style, refuel on elevated versions of beloved afterschool snacks (& beverages!), treat your inner child to the collectables you always wanted, and so much more! We guarantee when we hit Game Over, you’ll leave feeling like you unlocked the ultimate achievement: an unforgettable night out!

Ready to challenge your player 2 to a friendly competition? Purchase pairs of tickets here. 👯 Anyone who purchases a pair of tickets by Friday, February 27 unlocks a bonus level and will be entered to win a two-ticket prize pack to attend our next throwback event, Adult Night: Summer Camp in July (21+ only) and 2 general admission tickets to use later in the year!

Event is for ages 21+ and takes place rain or shine. Please note that in order to not disrupt our animals’ routines, exhibit trails and the Goat Yard will close at 6:45pm, though the event continues until 8pm.

**Any listing marked with a dollar sign ($) is an additional cost.

Activities

Included with your ticket

5 – 5:30pm: Animal Ambassador Greeters in the Fountain Plaza

5 – 6:45pm: Retro themed animal trails

Arcade games

Conservation card games in the Fountain Plaza

Live game shows with MatchMaker VA

Beer samples from Elation Brewing

Photo ops with Tango the Tiger

Submit your memories table in the Event Pavilion

Share your Virginia Zoo memories with us for a chance to be featured in our 125th anniversary time capsule

Available for an additional cost ($)

5 – 7:40pm: Virginia Zoo Express train rides

Virginia Zoo Gift Shop

Retro Vendor Market

Tumbeezy Cookies

The Sarcastic Hermit

Stay Weird Vintage

Atlantis Comics

xedmade

Sam Makes Things

Endangered Formats

Apex Entertainment

Super Comp Studios

Gamer Bus

Dave & Busters

DraftCade

Curtain Calls Xscape

Food & Drink ($)

Food Trucks

Moontide Sundries

Twisted Sisters Cupcakes

Limited food menu at the African Village Restaurant

Seasoned pizza rolls: classic pizza rolls tossed in a housemade garlic & herb butter sauce for the same nostalgic taste but elevated!

Mini corn dogs with honey mustard dip

Fries

Hotdog

Chicken tenders

Zoo Dunkaroos: housemade Dunkaroo dip served with animal crackers

Virginia Zoo Specialty Cocktails (while supplies last) : All drinks will be served in a 12 oz cup, $10 per drink.

Pac Man Punch: Smirnoff vodka, lemonade, pineapple juice, and passionfruit puree

Ultimate Smash!: Jose Cuervo Silver, ginger beer, orange juice, and a splash of grenadine

Cinnamon Blast Cereal Milk: Jim Beam, milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla

💲Ticket Prices💲

This is a 21+ event only and IDs will be checked prior to entry.

Tickets on sale to Zoo Members starting 2/6 and available to the general public starting 2/13.

🕹️ Member: $13

🕹️ Non-Member: $28

Purchase your tickets here!

Event Reminders

Limited number of tickets available. Advance ticket sales end when sold out (get yours early!). If tickets remain on the day of the event, gate sales may be limited to credit card transactions only.

Tickets are non-refundable. All sales are final. Should a ticket holder be unable to attend the event, the purchase will be considered a donation.

As an outdoor venue, events are rain or shine unless otherwise indicated. If any changes are made, an announcement via an email to our members and/or ticket holders and on the Virginia Zoo social media channels will be issued prior the event.

The Zoo is a smoke-free facility; no smoking is allowed inside the Zoo. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping. Inability to follow this rule will result in dismissal from Zoo grounds without a refund.

By purchasing an event ticket, you agree to abide by the Virginia Zoo’s Rules & Policies.

Sensory Friendly Morning
2026-03-29 09:30 - 12:30
Join us as we partner with Autism Society Tidewater Virginia, Complete the Puzzle, and Destination Family Services to provide guests of all abilities and needs, along with their families, the opportunity to visit the Virginia Zoo in a less overwhelming environment. On this special date and time we will provide stress-free activities for your Zoo visit through adapted programs and a reduced number of visitors. With access to animal ambassadors, activity carts, Run Wild! Discovery Zone nature play, and more the whole family can enjoy this sensory-friendly morning at the Zoo.

Activities

COMING SOON

*A limited number of KultureCity Sensory bags are available for check-out in our Membership Office (first come, first serve).

Food & Drinks ($)

COMING SOON

Tickets

Due to limited capacity, timed tickets will be required for entry to the Zoo for this time and date. Individuals with an ADA-Recognized Disability and One Companion can receive free admission upon request. ADA Admission is only redeemable at the ticket booth. All additional family and friends attending are required to purchase & reserve your tickets ahead of time.

🎧 Member Adult (18+): Free

🎧 Member Child (2-17): Free

🎧 Non-Member Adult (12+): $20

🎧 Non-Member Senior (62+): $18

🎧 Non-Member Child (2-11): $17

🎧 Children under 2 are free but require a reserved ticket

Limited number of tickets available. Advance ticket sales end when sold out (get yours early!). If tickets remain on the day of event you may purchase yours at the gate. Tickets are non-refundable. All sales are final. Should a ticket holder be unable to attend the event, the purchase will be considered a donation. As an outdoor venue, events are rain or shine unless otherwise indicated. If any changes are made, an announcement via an email to our members and/or ticket holders and on the Virginia Zoo social media channels will be issued prior the event.

The Zoo is a smoke-free facility; no smoking is allowed inside the Zoo. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping. Inability to follow this rule will result in dismissal from Zoo grounds without a refund.

Questions regarding this event? Please email info@virginiazoo.org or call (757) 441-2374.

Zoo Tales
2026-04-02 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-04-04 11:00 - 11:30
Join us for our popular story-time program, Zoo Tales! Each week features two new stories and an animal encounter with a zoo animal ambassador, all related to a changing monthly theme!

See signs posted in the Zoo’s Fountain Plaza to find out the location of Zoo Tales on the day of your visit. Free with general admission.

Themes: Colors & Shapes

Wild Babies
2026-04-07 09:45 - 10:45
Calling all “Wild Babies” to the zoo! Join us for a NEW program offering for our youngest zoo visitors. We will be exploring age appropriate sensory and educational activities in a small up-close setting. This program is geared for 0-2 year olds and their guardians although older children will be welcome. Wild Babies will involve elements of nature and social development including but not limited to story time, short “hikes”, and an animal encounter.

These programs will be located in one of our classrooms. Please check signs in Fountain Plaza on the day of the event.

Theme: Colors & Shapes

Zoo Tales
2026-04-09 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-04-16 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-04-18 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-04-23 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-04-30 11:00 - 11:30
Join us for our popular story-time program, Zoo Tales! Each week features two new stories and an animal encounter with a zoo animal ambassador, all related to a changing monthly theme!

See signs posted in the Zoo’s Fountain Plaza to find out the location of Zoo Tales on the day of your visit. Free with general admission.

Theme: Colors & Shapes

Wild Tykes
2026-04-16 09:30 - 10:30
Wild Tykes is a drop-in program recommended for kids aged 3-5 and their favorite adults! Each program features a new theme with age-appropriate nature and science activities that focus on these core areas: sensory, movement, free play, art, and problem-solving. We won’t be afraid to get a little dirty as we explore and play together! See signs posted in the Zoo’s Fountain Plaza to find out the location of activities on the day of your visit. Free with General Admission.

Theme: Colors & Shapes

Tails & Trails: Dog Day at the Zoo
2026-04-26 15:00 - 18:00
Spring has sprung 🌸, and it’s time to thaw your pup’s paws! 🐾 Get ready to join us for our first ever Dog Days event. 🐶 We’re inviting dog-loving zoo fans and their well-behaved canine companions to explore the Zoo together! Your dogs will be treated to sights, smells, and sounds of animals they’ve never encountered before all while playing a vital role in enriching the lives of the Zoo’s animal residents.

To ensure that this event is safe for everyone, your fur babies MUST be well-trained and vaccinated. Dogs behaving in an unruly or aggressive manner (i.e. excessive barking, growling, lunging, biting, etc.) will be required to leave without a refund.

How to Join Us:

Reserve a ticket for yourself AND your dog. Each adult ticket may only reserve a spot for ONE dog. Note: Our ticket form will not complete transactions that do not have a 1:1 ratio of adult humans to dogs.

Submit a signed waiver (this link will be provided in your ticket confirmation email).

Upload your dog’s veterinary records*. Medical records must be received no later than

Medical requirements:

Up-to-date vaccination for: Rabies

Up-to-date vaccination for: Distemper virus, Adenovirus (also called canine Hepatitis) and Parvo virus

Up-to-date vaccination for: Bordetella

Proof of negative heartworm test within the past year AND proof of purchase for heartworm preventative

*You will only have one opportunity to upload these documents, please verify before you select submit that all required documentation has been provided.

Entry will not be permitted if your medical records have not been received by the Virginia Zoo, or if our veterinary staff determines that your dog’s records are insufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I need to reserve tickets ahead of time, or can I walk up with my dog?

All dog tickets must be pre-registered by the date listed above, so our vets can review your dog’s records to ensure they meet requirements. Only human tickets will be available at the gate.

What veterinary records are required for my dog to attend this event?

Medical records must be received no later than 4pm on October 16. Upload your dog’s veterinary records to the link provided in your canine ticket purchase confirmation email. You will only have one opportunity to upload these documents, please verify before you select submit that all required documentation has been provided.

Medical requirements:

Up-to-date vaccination for: Rabies
Up-to-date vaccination for: Distemper virus, Adenovirus (also called canine Hepatitis) and Parvo virus
Up-to-date vaccination for: Bordetella
Proof of negative heartworm test within the past year AND proof of purchase for heartworm preventative

These records are being required by the Virginia Zoo's board certified veterinarian for the safety of both your animals and those that call the Zoo home. If you have questions or or need clarification, please email us at events@virginiazoo.org.

What if my dog’s records are rejected?

If our vets do not approve your dog’s veterinary records, your ticket will be cancelled and refunded. You will be notified at the email you provided when tickets were reserved.

Does my dog need to be on a leash at all times?

Yes, dogs must be on a leash at all times during the event, even if they are in a carrier or a stroller. Leashes must be no longer than 6 feet and should be non-retractable.

Can I use a hands-free leash at this event?

No, hands-free leashes are not permitted at this event to ensure the safety of all animals and guests in attendance.

Can I bring more than one dog to the event?

Each adult (18+) can only be accompanied by ONE dog. If you would like to bring more than one dog, you will need to have another adult present with you in your party.

Can I bring a pet that is not a dog?

No, only dogs are allowed at this time.

Will dog supplies be provided?

Guests are encouraged to bring their own treats, water bowls, and relief bags. Limited water stations will be available around the Zoo. Water will also be available for purchase.

Can I go to all parts of the Zoo with my dog?

Dogs are currently not permitted to enter the Zoo Farm, the World of Reptiles or Turtle Oasis. Other areas may not be available as programs or animals dictate. Dogs must remain behind the guest fences or stanchions, not go through them, and obey all posted signage.

Where are the relief areas for my dog?

The Zoo will be installing a designated dog relief area (see event map). All guests will be responsible for cleaning up after their dogs should it be needed.

Are there any restrictions on the types of dogs that can attend?

Puppies under 4 months, sick dogs, dogs with active injuries (i.e. stitches, bandages), unvaccinated dogs, and female dogs in heat are not suitable for the event.

Am I allowed to attend if I don’t have a dog?

Yes, of course! All dog and zoo-lovers are welcome! The Zoo will be open for extended hours for this event and guests are more than welcome to purchase a human ticket to attend without a dog.

Can I go back in and edit my waiver submission?

No, all documents and completion of the waiver needs to be done at one time. If you have trouble with your submission, email us at info@virginiazoo.org.

Can I bring my service dog to this event?

Yes, service dogs are welcomed to this event at their handler's discretion. If your service dog is on duty, while the handler will require to purchase a ticket, the dog will not. However, to assist with planning, a cost-free reservation is requested by contacting us at events@virginiazoo.org to let us know your working service dog will be attending.
Emotional support dogs do not qualify as service animals according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and are therefore required to purchase a ticket to attend this event.

Dog tickets are sold out, what now?

For safety reasons, we have a limited number of dog tickets available for this event. Veterinary records must be submitted for all dogs with tickets purchased for this event, however, it could take our team a few days to ensure the records are sufficient and approved. Should records not be approved, some dog tickets may open up, so please reserve a free waitlist ticket at the ticket link to be added to our waitlist!

What are you doing to ensure the Zoo animals are safe and not stressed?

The health and safety of our Zoo animals is always our top priority. We are ensuring their wellbeing during this event in a number of ways, including:

Our team has done extensive research and consulted with other AZA-accredited facilities who have hosted similar events. We have also reviewed in detail all aspects of the event with our Veterinary and Animal Care teams, including them in every step of the process and acting on their recommendations.
For this event, dogs will not be permitted in some parts of the Zoo, including the ZooFarm, World of Reptiles, and Turtle Oasis. This is to protect our animals from close contact with the dogs, as well as prevent stress for some of our more reactive species.
We conducted two test days with well-behaved pets of our Zoo Team and Members, which allowed our Animal Care Team to evaluate their animals’ responses to dogs. The open areas of the Zoo were selected because the keepers identified that the animals in that area did not exhibit concerning behaviors during the tests.
During our test days, and through our research, we actually found that having some dogs on site was enriching for many of the animals here at the Zoo! Many of the animals were interested in our canine friends and it proved to be stimulating and exciting for them!
We will continue to monitor our animals’ behavior during and after the event as well as make adjustments mid-event and for future events accordingly.
On the day of the event, any dogs behaving in an unruly or aggressive manner (i.e. excessive barking, growling, lunging, biting, etc.) will be required to leave Zoo grounds without a refund.

Bringing in other animals onto Zoo grounds is something we take very seriously. We are adhering to all recommendations by animal experts at our facility and other AZA organizations. Additionally, we require detailed vaccination and veterinary records to be submitted for review by our Veterinarian for all dogs attending this event.

Activities

COMING SOON

Vendors

COMING SOON

Food and Drink Options ($)

COMING SOON

💲 Ticket Prices 💲

🐾 COMING SOON

Event Reminders

Limited number of tickets available. Advance ticket sales end when sold out (get yours early!). If tickets remain on the day of the event, gate sales may be limited to credit card transactions only.

Tickets are non-refundable. All sales are final. Should a ticket holder be unable to attend the event, the purchase will be considered a donation.

As an outdoor venue, events are rain or shine unless otherwise indicated. If any changes are made, an announcement via an email to our members and/or ticket holders and on the Virginia Zoo social media channels will be issued prior the event.

The Zoo is a smoke-free facility; no smoking is allowed inside the Zoo. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping. Inability to follow this rule will result in dismissal from Zoo grounds without a refund.

By purchasing an event ticket, you agree to abide by the Virginia Zoo’s Rules & Policies.

Zoo Tales
2026-05-02 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-05-07 11:00 - 11:30
Join us for our popular story-time program, Zoo Tales! Each week features two new stories and an animal encounter with a zoo animal ambassador, all related to a changing monthly theme!

See signs posted in the Zoo’s Fountain Plaza to find out the location of Zoo Tales on the day of your visit. Free with general admission.

Theme: Spring from the Earth

Wild Babies
2026-05-05 09:45 - 10:45
Calling all “Wild Babies” to the zoo! Join us for a NEW program offering for our youngest zoo visitors. We will be exploring age appropriate sensory and educational activities in a small up-close setting. This program is geared for 0-2 year olds and their guardians although older children will be welcome. Wild Babies will involve elements of nature and social development including but not limited to story time, short “hikes”, and an animal encounter.

These programs will be located in one of our classrooms. Please check signs in Fountain Plaza on the day of the event.

Theme: Spring from the Earth

Bike Night
2026-05-08 17:00 - 20:00
Tire-d of your same-old cycling route? 🚲 Put those pedals to the metal and gear up for a wild, after-hours ride at the Virginia Zoo! Cruise through the Zoo on designated paths, listen to our DJ spin dance-worthy tracks, take a break to walk the animal trails, and meet local bike vendors that can help you repair or trick out your ride with wheel-y cool accessories. Electric scooters are not permitted for this event.

*Please note that guests will not be permitted to bike or scooter on exhibit trails due to safety concerns for pedestrians that will be in attendance.

Rules and Safety

No Electric Bicycles Permitted (Unless Hybrids with Motors Removed)

No skateboards of longboards

Helmets must be worn by all attendees under the age of 18.

Bikes must be walked on animal trails — no riding.

Event takes place rain or shine!

Activities

COMING SOON

*Bikes must be walked, not ridden on Animal Trails. Guests cannot bring bikes in the Goat Yard.

Vendors

COMING SOON

Food & Drink ($)

COMING SOON

💲Ticket Prices💲

🛞 COMING SOON

Event Reminders

Limited number of tickets available. Advance ticket sales end when sold out (get yours early!). If tickets remain on the day of the event, gate sales may be limited to credit card transactions only.

Tickets are non-refundable. All sales are final. Should a ticket holder be unable to attend the event, the purchase will be considered a donation.

As an outdoor venue, events are rain or shine unless otherwise indicated. If any changes are made, an announcement via an email to our members and/or ticket holders and on the Virginia Zoo social media channels will be issued prior the event.

The Zoo is a smoke-free facility; no smoking is allowed inside the Zoo. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping. Inability to follow this rule will result in dismissal from Zoo grounds without a refund.

By purchasing an event ticket, you agree to abide by the Virginia Zoo’s Rules & Policies.

Wild Tykes
2026-05-09 09:30 - 10:30
Wild Tykes is a drop-in program recommended for kids aged 3-5 and their favorite adults! Each program features a new theme with age-appropriate nature and science activities that focus on these core areas: sensory, movement, free play, art, and problem-solving. We won’t be afraid to get a little dirty as we explore and play together! See signs posted in the Zoo’s Fountain Plaza to find out the location of activities on the day of your visit. Free with General Admission.

Theme: Spring from the Earth
