Peoria Zoo

Peoria Zoo joins many zoos around the world in celebrating WORLD ENDANGERED SPECIES DAY.
ENDANGERED SPECIES DAY commemorates the 51st anniversary of the Endangered Species Act.  Established in 1973, the Endangered Species Act serves the purpose of studying, listing, and protecting endangered species.  According to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service there are 1,160 ENDANGERED animal and plant species and there are 327 animal and plant species listed as THREATENED.

Conservation Days- These exciting days are celebrated around the world and these days dive into the realm of certain animals or species and highlight conservation efforts.

There will be self-guided activities/crafts which will give guests a chance to learn about some of their favorite animals and how to help with their preservation.

Interpretations or Keeper Chats may take place depending on the different animal and topics.

May 23rd is World Turtle Day.

NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Just drop in!

BIG BUGS!
June 1- July 28; Open daily from 11am-4pm

Step into a world where giants roam, but they’re not what you’d expect! Join us at Peoria Zoo from June 1st to July 28th for an extraordinary adventure – “BIG BUGS!” Prepare to be mesmerized by the colossal creatures that once ruled the Earth, now brought back to life in stunning larger-than-life animatronic detail.

Embark on a journey through time as you encounter thirteen bug behemoths, each one meticulously crafted to astound and amaze. From the majestic Mantis to the awe-inspiring Scorpion, these mechanical marvels will transport you to a realm where insects reign supreme.

Feel the earth tremble beneath your feet as you come face to face with these gargantuan insects, their movements so lifelike you’ll swear they’re alive! Watch in wonder as the wings of the Butterfly flutter with graceful elegance, or marvel at the intricate detail of the Beetle’s armor-like exoskeleton.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there, on select days dive deeper into the world of bugs with interactive exhibits, educational displays, themed food and beverage, and fun-filled activities for the whole family. Learn about the fascinating lives of these incredible creatures and discover the vital role they play in our ecosystem.

Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic of “BIG BUGS!” at Peoria Zoo. It’s an event of colossal proportions that promises to leave you buzzing with excitement!

From recycling to skipping the straw, explore simple ways you can help make the planet a better place. We will have animal encounters, activities, and earth friendly treats our animals will receive throughout the day. Fun on the Run inflatables will be in Glen Oak Park leading to the Peoria PlayHouse for a fun activity. This event is included with admission/membership; no registration required. PLUS, this is the opening day for BIG BUGS!, our traveling exhibit.

NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Just drop in!

All dads will get free admission with a paying child. Dads, make sure to stop by the the Zambezi Lodge to get a free root beer float!

NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Just drop in!

Conservation Days- WE’RE DEDICATING THE ENTIRE WEEK TO POLLINATORS!

There will be self-guided activities/crafts which will give guests a chance to learn about some of their pollinators and how to help with their preservation.

Celebrate bees and butterflies and all the other animals that help flowers bloom. Come learn about all the ways you can help pollinators
thrive in your own backyard. There will be different activities, crafts, and keeper chats throughout the week. Make sure to check out BIG BUGS! to make your visit even more special! This event is included with admission/membership; no registration required.

NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Just drop in!

Happy World Snake Day! Join us to celebrate the remarkable world of our reptiles for World Snake Day! There will be self-guided activities/crafts which will give guests a chance to learn about some of their favorite animals and how to help with their preservation.

This is event is part of our Conservation Days Series- These exciting days are celebrated around the world and these days dive into the realm of certain animals or species and highlight conservation efforts. There will be self-guided activities/crafts which will give guests a chance to learn about some of their favorite animals and how to help with their preservation. Interpretations or Keeper Chats may take place depending on the different animal and topics.

NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Just drop in!

Come find all of the Pokéstops at the Zoo, while visiting our Pokémon friends. Battle, Trade, Collect them all here on this day.

NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Just drop in!

Happy World Tiger Day!  Join us for a roaring good time as we celebrate World Tiger Day! There will be self-guided activities/crafts which will give guests a chance to learn about some of their favorite animals and how to help with their preservation.

This is event is part of our Conservation Days Series- These exciting days are celebrated around the world and these days dive into the realm of certain animals or species and highlight conservation efforts. There will be self-guided activities/crafts which will give guests a chance to learn about some of their favorite animals and how to help with their preservation. Interpretations or Keeper Chats may take place depending on the different animal and topics.

NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Just drop in!