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Highlights
Discover a diverse collection of exotic, native, and endangered species across four engaging acres. Immerse yourselves in the natural world and even enjoy an exclusive, up-close animal encounter.
About This Deal
Highlights
Engaging Wildlife Exploration: Discover a diverse collection of exotic, native, and endangered species spread across four fascinating acres.
Educational Animal Encounters: Get up close and personal with an animal ambassador during a semi-private, 30-minute session led by a dedicated zoo educator.
Support a Non-Profit Mission: Contribute to a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to conservation, education, and animal rehabilitation, fostering respect for the natural world.
Flexible Group Adventures: Enjoy the convenience of admission for groups of two to four people, making it perfect for families or friends.
What To Expect
Step into The Zoo in Forest Park, where a world of wildlife discovery awaits across four expansive acres. Wander through habitats teeming with a diverse array of exotic, native, and endangered species, each offering a unique glimpse into the natural world. Feel the thrill of connection as visitors observe majestic creatures and learn about their vital roles in our ecosystem. This engaging experience inspires visitors of all ages to respect and value the natural world.
Elevate a visit with an exclusive Animal Encounter Experience, providing a truly unforgettable interaction. Imagine the excitement of meeting an animal ambassador face-to-face, guided by a knowledgeable zoo educator who shares fascinating insights. Guests can choose from a captivating list of animals like parrots, tortoises, goats, or even various reptiles, creating a personalized and educational adventure that deepens their understanding of these incredible creatures.
Plan Your Visit
- Operating HoursHours may vary. Please check the merchant's website for the most up-to-date information.
- DurationAnimal Encounters last approximately 30 minutes, followed by a self-guided tour through The Zoo.
Ticket Options
General Admission to The Zoo in Forest Park
Enjoy self-guided access to The Zoo in Forest Park, home to a wide variety of exotic, native, and endangered species across four engaging acres. Explore at your own pace and discover the zoo's mission of education, conservation, and rehabilitation.
General Admission with Animal Encounter Experience
Combine a self-guided zoo visit with a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with one of the zoo's animal ambassadors. This semi-private 30-minute encounter, led by a dedicated zoo educator, allows guests to learn about and interact with an animal of their choice (subject to availability).
PLUS:Includes a personalized 30-minute interaction with an animal ambassador
How It Works
1. Grab the Deal
Buy your Groupon first!
2. No reservation needed for admission option. If purchasing animal encounters, simply follow instructions on your voucher!
Redemption instructions can be found on Groupon voucher, after purchase.
3. Redeem your Mobile Ticket
Scan your Groupon upon arrival.
4. Enjoy the Experience!
FAQs
What is the mission of The Zoo in Forest Park and Education Center?
The Zoo in Forest Park is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring its community to respect and value the natural world through robust education, conservation efforts, and providing homes to non-releasable animals.
What types of animals can guests expect to see?
The Zoo is home to a diverse array of exotic, native, and endangered species. During an Animal Encounter, guests can choose to meet ambassadors such as parrots, tortoises, Nigerian pygmy goats, Poitou donkeys, groundhogs, skunks, opossums, rabbits, muntjac deer, or various reptiles.
How do the Animal Encounter experiences work?
Animal Encounters are semi-private, 30-minute sessions where a dedicated zoo educator introduces guests to an animal ambassador of their choice. These must be booked with the Education Department at least two weeks in advance and are subject to availability. Groups may be paired, not exceeding 10 people total.
How large is The Zoo in Forest Park?
The Zoo spans an engaging area of four acres, providing ample space to explore and discover its wide variety of animal inhabitants.
What kind of organization is The Zoo in Forest Park?
It is a 501c3 non-profit organization, deeply committed to its mission of education, conservation, and animal rehabilitation within the community.
Fine Print
Promotional value expires Oct 18, 2026.
- Valid only for option purchased.
- All sales are final.
- Admission does not require reservations.
- The encounters do require scheduling at least two weeks in advance of desired date and are subject to scheduling availability.
- Admission cannot be used on ticketed event days.
- Groupon does not include parking, which is managed by the City of Springfield and not The Zoo.
- The cost is $3-$5, cash only.
About The Zoo in Forest Park and Education Center
Visiting The Zoo in Forest Park and Education Center is a lot like stepping into a nature documentary. Guests can take a self-guided journey to meet more than 150 creatures from across the world. They may stop by the habitats of the Ring-tailed lemur, the western bobcat, and the spotted leopard and many more.
The Zoo in Forest Park is not operated by the City of Springfield. The Zoo is an independent 501c3 non-profit organization. The Zoo is not responsible for any Forest Park conditions including parking and bathrooms.
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