Frequently Asked Questions
We have the answers.
How much are tickets?
| Age | Online Cost | Gate Cost |
| Young Children (ages 0–2) | FREE | FREE |
| Children (ages 3–11) | $19.99 /person | $24.99 /person |
| Adults (ages 12–61) | $24.99 /person | $29.99 /person |
| Senior Citizens (ages 62+) | $19.99 /person | $24.99 /person |
| Members Become a Member | FREE | FREE |
Can I purchase tickets online?
Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online in order to save money and reduce time waiting in line. You can purchase tickets here.
Do you offer discounts?
Tickets are only $5 per person for Winter Wednesdays (Wednesdays November – February) and Twilight Tuesdays (Tuesdays in July).
We offer special rates for groups of 20+ and school groups.
Guests with a military ID receive $2 off regular gate admission for everyone in their party.
For guests receiving SNAP benefits, we offer a $5 Zoo For All admission for up to 4 guests when tickets are purchased at the gate.
What kinds of payment do you accept?
We accept cash and most major credit cards. We do not take personal checks.
How much is a membership?
Memberships start at $115 for a whole year of unlimited visits and more. See our Membership page for full details and benefits.
Is there a fee for parking?
Parking is FREE!
What are your hours?
9 AM to 5 PM
What days are you closed?
We close the Friday and Saturday after Labor Day for our annual fundraiser, Zoobilee. But we are open all other 363 days of the year.
Can we bring our stroller or wagon?
Absolutely! We also have strollers available for rent at the gift shop or the guest service kiosk inside the Zoo entrance.
Do you have wheelchairs available?
Yes, wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to rent. Call 316-266-8217 to reserve a wheelchair or inquire at the guest service kiosk inside the Zoo entrance.
Can my child bring a skateboard, bicycle, or scooter?
For the safety of our animals and our guests, we do not allow bikes, scooters, skates, skate-shoes, skateboards, hoverboards, or Segways.
Do you have lockers available for rent?
No, we do not have lockers available. Feel free to bring a cooler, bag, or wagon to carry your items around with you.
Can we bring pets to the Zoo?
To ensure the safety of our animals and yours, only service dogs are permitted in the Zoo. Limited space is available in our Pet Parking area for guests traveling with pets.
Can we take pictures of the animals?
You’re welcome to take photos and video for your personal use only. Commercial photography is allowed only with prior written permission.
Is smoking allowed at the Zoo?
Smoking is not allowed inside the Zoo. Guests may exit the Zoo in order to smoke in the parking lot and reenter as many times as necessary.
Are outside food and beverages allowed?
Yes, visitors can bring in food and non-alcoholic beverages. You can also stop by one of our food and beverage locations. Learn more about our restaurant and concessions here.
What extras can we see during our visit?
Visit our Zoo Calendar to find out what’s happening while you’re here!
Do you have a gift shop?
Yes! Our Zoo Store is located in the entry plaza. We offer a full selection of merchandise, including books, SCZ logo clothing, educational toys and much more.
Do we have to pay Zoo admission to shop at the Zoo Store?
No! The Zoo Store has a separate entrance from the Zoo gate, so you can stop by just to shop!
Can we leave the Zoo and come back on the same day?
Yes. Just hold onto your receipt and present it at the admissions window when you return, or ask for a stamp on your hand.
Do you offer rain checks?
We’re open rain or shine! The Zoo does not offer refunds or rain checks due to animal visibility or weather conditions. Special circumstances, including extremes in weather, construction, births, feeding, and veterinary procedures, may require that certain animals be removed from public viewing to ensure the best possible care.
Wild Lights FAQ
When is Wild Lights open?
Wild Lights is open to the public from 6 – 9 p.m. every Wednesday – Sunday from Oct. 16 – Dec. 22.
I purchased a ticket, but can no longer come on the day I selected. Can I change the date on my ticket?
Wild Lights tickets will be valid for any day the event is open to the public, regardless of the date you chose at the time of purchase. If you purchased a ticket at the Wednesday rate and wish to come on a day besides Wednesday, you may pay to upgrade your ticket when you arrive.
Do I need to purchase a ticket for my child who is 2 years old?
Children 2 and under receive FREE admission to Wild Lights, so they do not need a ticket for entry.
If I’m visiting the Zoo during the day, do I need to purchase separate tickets for Wild Lights?
Yes, Wild Lights requires a separate ticket for entry. The Zoo’s regular hours are 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. After the Zoo closes for the day, the park is cleared and reopens at 6 p.m. for Wild Lights.
Are the Zoo’s concession areas open during Wild Lights?
Yes! Our chefs have prepared an exclusive menu available only during Wild Lights at the Beastro, Kookaburra Canteen, Nganda Cafe, and the Craft Food Truck. There are also special offerings at other areas throughout the Zoo such as s’mores and hot chocolate.
I have mobility challenges. Can I bring my electric scooter or wheelchair?
Yes, guests with mobility challenges are allowed to bring their personal mobility devices into the Zoo. You may also consider taking advantage of our VIP Cart Tours for a unique way to experience Wild Lights.
Do you have accommodations for guests with sensory sensitivities?
Our VIP Cart Tours are a great way to experience Wild Lights on nights that aren’t open to the public, so large crowds can easily be avoided.
For guests who may be sensitive to bright lights, we recommend visiting the Zoo during the day – the lanterns are still quite impressive during the daylight!