Member Madness

Did you know the Virginia Zoo has more than 12,000 member households? If you’re one of the insiders, then you know there is more to a membership than just having an extra card in your wallet that gets you into the Zoo. Being a Zoo member has endless rewards, from daily free admission to discounts in our restaurants and Gift Shop, on Zoo special events, reduced admission to more than 150 accredited institutions across the country, special rates for educational programs and even invitations to exclusive member-only events. But the savings and fun don’t stop there!

The most talked about bonus is the monthly membership swap! The Zoo is once again offering a variety of swaps with local cultural institutions, which have extended benefits like discounts on food and other purchases. In 2019, Zoo members can expect to visit The Military Aviation Museum, The Mariners’ Museum and Park, the Norfolk Botanical Gardens and the Museum of Contemporary Art – plus more have yet to jump on board!

In addition to the great opportunity to get around Hampton Roads, Zoo members are also receiving many perks to keep them coming back to the Zoo each month. January and February included a free giveaway and extra discounts, but March Member Madness has something else in store. The Zoo is teaming up with the Norfolk Admirals for a joint fan event for Virginia Zoo Members and Norfolk Admirals Season Pass Holders only. On March 3, attendees will have the chance to meet Admirals players and get their autographs, plus take a spin around the Admirals’ inflatable “ice” rink. There will be also appearances from the Admirals and Zoo mascots and Zoo animal ambassadors. Other monthly values include a free friend ticket in March and November, and free member giveaways in April, September and December.

If you’re looking to spend extra time at the Zoo, then mark your calendars for Member Mornings on Saturdays and Sundays from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Members get into the Zoo an hour early when there’s plenty of parking, the weather is cooler, and there’s a better chance of seeing the animals being active and eating their breakfasts!

Members also receive free or discounted admission to various events throughout the year. Grab a blanket and watch Zoovies (free for members) or put on your dancing shoes for ZooGrooves (discounted tickets for members). The Zoo is also adding an extra Member Night this summer, which is a free after-hours event with special discounts.

For the full list of monthly member perks including swaps, discounts, events and more, please see our EXCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS PAGE. Not yet a Virginia Zoo member, but want access to perks like this? Become a Zoo member today!