Get closer than ever to your favorite animals with a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Giraffe Wild Encounter
Your adventure begins behind the scenes in the giraffe barn, where you’ll help keepers create special feeders and watch as the treats are gobbled up! You’ll stand toe to toe with these gentle giants and learn how giraffe are ambassadors for their cousins in Africa.
A portion of your Wild Encounter supports our Zoo Conservation Fund.
Day: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Dates/ Time: Each week from March 28, 2025, through October 31, 2025
4:00 p.m.
Ages: 5 & up*
Cost: $250 for groups up to 6 participants
*Children age 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult who has also purchased a Wild Encounter.
Red Panda Wild Encounter
Spend time hanging out with the original panda during your Red Panda Wild Encounter. Step into a staff-only area to see what goes into their daily care and have a chance to watch Keepers during a Red Panda feeding. Ask whatever questions are on your mind about this endangered species and learn about the important role Zoos have in Red Panda conservation.
A portion of your Wild Encounter supports our Zoo Conservation Fund.
Days: 7 days a week
Dates/Time: Every day March 28, 2025, through October 31, 2025
10 a.m.
Ages: 5 & up*
Cost: $200 for groups up to 4 participants
*Children age 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult who has also purchased a Wild Encounter.
TO REGISTER FOR YOUR WILD ENCOUNTER
Full payment is required at the time of registration.
Questions? Contact us at 260-427-6800 or by e-mail.
Important Information for your Zoo Season Wild Encounter: Encounters are available only when the zoo is open for the season. Wild Encounter prices do not include zoo admission. You are free to explore the zoo on your own during normal operating hours before or after your Wild Encounter. No exceptions for stated maximum group size or age limits. Children age 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult who has also purchased a Wild Encounter ticket. Participants agree to abide by zoo protocols when visiting behind the scenes as instructed by zoo staff, including the use of protective masks, hand washing or other procedures. Closed-toed shoes are required for your safety—no sandals. Wear washable clothing. Dress for the weather, the Wild Encounters happen rain or shine.
Photos from guest areas are strongly encouraged. Photos are not permitted from the behind-the-scenes areas within the Zoo. The Zoo Keeper will assist you in finding a place for your personal possessions during your Wild Encounter. Feel free to ask us for a copy of our Photo/Video Policy.
Cancellation and Refund Policies: Wild Encounters are held rain or shine. Refunds (minus 10% processing fee) are available if you cancel at least 2 weeks in advance. No refund if you cancel less than 2 weeks in advance, but the zoo will make every effort to reschedule your Encounter. The zoo reserves the right to cancel any Wild Encounter or offer an equivalent substitute at any time due to animal health or safety issues. In the event of a zoo cancellation, a full refund will be offered.
Wild Encounters is sponsored by Three Rivers Credit Union
