Animal Connections: Tours & Experiences

Go beyond the path and experience the Erie Zoo like never before.

Looking to make your visit even more memorable? Animal Connections give you the chance to step behind the scenes, get closer than you imagine to incredible animals, and learn directly from the team who cares for them every day. From guided tours to up-close encounters, each experience offers a deeper connection to wildlife.

Pop-Up Discovery Series

Add a little something extra to your visit.

These limited-time animal encounters are designed to bring guests closer to animals, the people who care for them, and the conservation work happening every day at the Erie Zoo. Each experience offers a unique opportunity to discover something new.

Pop-Up Discovery Series experiences are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Upcoming dates are listed below to help you plan your visit. The featured animal or experience for each date will be announced on our social media channels as the event approaches. Tickets are available for purchase at Admissions on the day of each experience.

Upcoming Dates

Tuesday, July 7
Tuesday, July 14
Thursday, July 16
Sunday, July 19
Tuesday, July 21

Pricing: $15 per person | $12 for Erie Zoo members

Looking for an even more immersive experience? Explore our private Animal Connections options below for extended, personalized encounters that can be scheduled in advance.

Behind-the-Scenes Tours

Step into spaces usually reserved for keepers.

Get an insider look at how our animals are cared for with exclusive access to behind-the-scenes areas. Along the way, you'll hear stories, observe daily routines, and gain a deeper appreciation for the work that goes into animal care.

Each tour lasts up to 30 minutes and is designed for small groups, creating a more personal and immersive experience. Tours are typically limited to 10 guests per group, with additional groups accommodated as availability allows.

Please note: Some areas may have photography restrictions.

Available Experiences

Rhino (11:30 AM or 1:00 PM)
Penguin (10:30 AM or 2:00 PM)
Otter (11:30 AM–1:30 PM)
Warthog (Flexible timing)
Monkeys (10:00 AM or 3:30 PM)

Pricing: $200 per group (up to 10 guests); $100 for each additional group of 10.

Animal Training Experiences

See the connection between keepers and animals in action.

Watch a live training session and learn how positive reinforcement supports animal health, enrichment, and daily care. These sessions offer a fascinating look at how animals learn, interact, and participate in their own well-being.

Please note: Training sessions take place at the animal's exhibit and are dependent on weather conditions and animal participation.

Featured Animals

Otter
Leopard
Lion
African Painted Dog
Red Panda

Pricing: $100 per session.

Animal Feeding Experiences

Be part of one of the most exciting moments of the day.

Get a closer look at feeding time while learning what goes into each animal's diet and care. This experience offers a unique opportunity to observe natural behaviors up close while connecting with the animals in a meaningful way.

Featured Animals

Tortoise
Porcupine

Pricing: $100 per experience.

Ambassador Animal Meet & Greets

Meet some of our smallest ambassadors up close.

Spend time with animals not typically seen on exhibit and learn how they help us connect guests to wildlife and conservation. These interactive sessions are ideal for groups looking for a hands-on, engaging experience.

Pricing:

$30 for a 15-minute experience with one animal
$50 for a 30-minute experience featuring two animals

How to Book

Ready to plan your experience?

📞 Call: (814) 864-4091 x1127
📧 Email: kbowes@eriezoo.org

Please book at least two weeks in advance. Experiences are limited and fill quickly.