DURING YOUR VISIT

What animals are off exhibit? 

See a full list of animals currently off exhibit here. Remember, if you do not see an animal in their habitat, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are “off exhibit.” For animal wellbeing, our animals are provided with covered areas or indoor access so they have the freedom to choose if they are visible or not. Don’t be afraid to ask a staff member or volunteer if you are unsure – we are always happy to help!

What is there to do during my visit?

In addition to seeing the Zoo’s 700 animals, representing 150 different species, you can find a list of daily activities on the Plan Your Day page.

Can I come in, leave and re-enter?  

If you leave the Zoo, you may re-enter on the same day by showing your admission receipt at the ticket booth.

Can I bring a stroller, wagon, or wheelchair into the Zoo?

Yes, strollers, wagons and wheelchairs are permitted inside the Zoo.

Can I rent a stroller or wheelchair?

Strollers and wheelchairs can be rented for the day on a first-come, first-serve basis. They can be found outside the Zoo’s Gift Shop at the Stroller Shack.

  • Single Stroller: Member, $6 //  Non-member, $8
  • Double Stroller: Member, $8  //  Non-member, $10
  • Motorized wheelchairs: Member, $32 //  Non-members, $36
  • Regular wheelchairs: $12

All costs are for the entire day.

What forms of payment can you accept?

The Virginia Zoo accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express, and cash. Personal checks will only be accepted in the Membership Office.

Can I bring my lunch in with me?

We do not allow outside food and beverages in the Zoo. We do offer a number of dining options including the African Village Cafe, Beastro, Mini Melts and the Snack Shack. Lafayette Park is adjacent to the Zoo if you would like to take a picnic there. If you leave the Zoo, you may re-enter on the same day by showing your admission receipt at the ticket booth.

Can I feed the animals during my visit?

For the safety and wellbeing of our animals we do not allow guests to feed our animals during general admission visits. However, we do offer a variety of Behind-the-Scenes tours that give you the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of our animals, as well as have the chance to feed them. These tours are available at select times for an additional fee and must be booked 2 weeks in advance. Learn more and book your tour here!

Can I bring my service animal with me?

Yes, service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are allowed inside the Zoo.  Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person’s disability. Emotional Support animals are not considered service animals under the ADA.  Service animals are not permitted inside animal exhibits including the goat yard or during behind-the-scenes tours.

Can I bring my pet in with me?

Many of our animals are rare and endangered species that have to be quarantined from native species and pets for their protection, so we cannot allow pets to accompany guests into the Zoo. We don’t have kennels or other facilities to house your pet during your visit, and leaving animals in an unattended car in the parking lot is not permitted. We recommend leaving your pet at home or with a pet-sitting facility.

Can my child explore the Zoo by her/himself? 

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Can I bring my bike into the Zoo?

Bikes are not permitted inside the Zoo. Any bikes brought to the Zoo must be left outside the Zoo entrance. For the convenience of our guests there is a bike rack located to the left of the ticket booths, outside the Zoo’s Gift Shop.

How do I ride the train?

The Virginia Zoo Express train is an additional charge of $3 per person ages 2 and up. Children under 2 ride free. Tickets to ride the train can be purchased at the Train Station in the Fountain Plaza on the day of your visit.

Are there designated smoking areas in the Zoo? 

The Zoo is a smoke-free facility; no smoking is allowed inside the Zoo. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping.

Can I volunteer with the Virginia Zoo?

The Virginia Zoo accepts volunteers for a variety of opportunities throughout the year. For more information please check out our Volunteer options.

How can I get a donation from the Zoo for a charity event?

All of our charitable donation requests go through the online form at the link here. It is our policy to donate up to one Two-Ticket Fan Pack, that can be used for either adult or child admission, per year per eligible organization. Please fill out the form and someone will be in contact with you.

What do I do if I have lost something at the Zoo?

If you lost an item at the Zoo and are still at the Zoo, please call 757.441.2374 to report the item. Otherwise, email Lost and Found at [email protected] to report the item. We will contact you if the item is found. After 30 days, unclaimed items are donated. When reporting a lost item, please include: A description of the item, the date you lost it, your name, and your telephone number.

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