World Lion Day Date: Monday, August 10, 2026 Time: Activities available throughout the day Location: Peoria Zoo - Tropics Classroom & Lion Exhibit Area Included with Zoo admission. Join us at Peoria Zoo as we celebrate World Lion Day, a global day of awareness dedicated to protecting one of Africa's most iconic species. Visit our African lion habitat to learn more about Lizzy, our resident lioness, and discover how modern zoos contribute to the conservation… Read Full Post

This summer, don't just end the week -- Make it a FriYay! Join us at Glen Oak Park for extended Friday fun at Peoria Zoo and Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum. More time to explore. More time to play. More time together. Every Friday from Memorial Day to Labor Day (5/29-9/4), stick around a little longer and enjoy extra evening hours at two of your favorite destinations: Peoria PlayHouse: Open until 6pm Peoria Zoo: Open until… Read Full Post

Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026 Time: All Day Location: Peoria Zoo - Tropics Building & Lodge Included with Zoo admission Join us in celebrating Day of the Cotton-top Tamarin as we shine a spotlight on one of the world's most endangered primates. Native to the tropical forests of Colombia, cotton top tamarins are known for their striking white crests, close family bonds, and important role in their forest ecosystem. During your Zoo visit, stop by… Read Full Post

This summer, don't just end the week -- Make it a FriYay! Join us at Glen Oak Park for extended Friday fun at Peoria Zoo and Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum. More time to explore. More time to play. More time together. Every Friday from Memorial Day to Labor Day (5/29-9/4), stick around a little longer and enjoy extra evening hours at two of your favorite destinations: Peoria PlayHouse: Open until 6pm Peoria Zoo: Open until… Read Full Post

This summer, don't just end the week -- Make it a FriYay! Join us at Glen Oak Park for extended Friday fun at Peoria Zoo and Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum. More time to explore. More time to play. More time together. Every Friday from Memorial Day to Labor Day (5/29-9/4), stick around a little longer and enjoy extra evening hours at two of your favorite destinations: Peoria PlayHouse: Open until 6pm Peoria Zoo: Open until… Read Full Post

This summer, don't just end the week -- Make it a FriYay! Join us at Glen Oak Park for extended Friday fun at Peoria Zoo and Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum. More time to explore. More time to play. More time together. Every Friday from Memorial Day to Labor Day (5/29-9/4), stick around a little longer and enjoy extra evening hours at two of your favorite destinations: Peoria PlayHouse: Open until 6pm Peoria Zoo: Open until… Read Full Post

Flutter into the fascinating world of monarch butterflies at Peoria Zoo! Discover the incredible journey monarchs make during their annual migration, explore each stage of their life cycle, and learn about the important role these remarkable pollinators play in our environment. Enjoy fun activities, games, and hands-on exploration for all ages while discovering what makes monarchs so extraordinary. Spread your wings and join us for a day of discovery celebrating one of nature’s most amazing… Read Full Post

There's more to explore at the PlayHouse this summer! Join us and Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum for Wild Encounters on the Porch: Second Saturdays, a special monthly program where Zoo educators take amazing animals and nature lessons to the PlayHouse! Happening every second Saturday from May through September, a new topic highlights an exciting animal group or environmental theme through up-close animal presentations, fun facts, hands-on activities, and nature-themed crafts where educators from Peoria Zoo… Read Full Post

Start your weekend on a positive note by connecting with your inner self in the heart of nature. Join us for Yoga in the Park, where our experienced and passionate yoga instructor will guide you through a revitalizing session suitable for all levels, from beginners to seasoned practitioners. Enjoy the picturesque surroundings of our parks, providing a serene backdrop to enhance your yoga experience. Breathe in the fresh morning air while you wind down with… Read Full Post

Halloween gets a little WILD at Zootober! Each weekend, Peoria Zoo comes alive with glowing lights, creepy creatures, surprising characters, and plenty of Halloween fun for the whole family. Explore the Zoo as you make your way through immersive Halloween scenes featuring lifelike animatronics, dazzling light displays, and live actors waiting around the corner. Stroll along spooky trails and displays while collecting candy at stops along the way. Grab a spooky snack or themed drink,… Read Full Post

Halloween gets a little WILD at Zootober! Each weekend, Peoria Zoo comes alive with glowing lights, creepy creatures, surprising characters, and plenty of Halloween fun for the whole family. Explore the Zoo as you make your way through immersive Halloween scenes featuring lifelike animatronics, dazzling light displays, and live actors waiting around the corner. Stroll along spooky trails and displays while collecting candy at stops along the way. Grab a spooky snack or themed drink,… Read Full Post

Join us for a favorite fall tradition and have a HOWLing Good Time at Peoria Zoo! Thursday, October 15 | 5-9 PM Tickets: $125/person ADD-ON - Reserved High-Top Table: $125 ADD-ON - Reserved Parking: $25 Sample beer and wine selected by local vendors, and BOOzy spirits of all kinds, as you experience the haunting Halloween trails at Peoria Zoo. Your ticket also includes heavy appetizers, dessert, live music, and exclusive access to our UpROARious annual… Read Full Post