The Cincinnati Zoo offers a variety of overnight programs that cater to different age groups and interests, providing an immersive and educational experience for zoo enthusiasts. From the Overnight Safari’s focus on animal adaptations to the adult-only Zoo After Dark experience, the Cincinnati Zoo’s overnight programs offer a unique opportunity to explore the zoo after hours and connect with the animal kingdom in a truly remarkable way.
Overnight Safari: Amazing Animal Adaptations
The Overnight Safari program is designed for participants aged 5 and up, offering an in-depth exploration of animal survival and adaptations. During this overnight adventure, guests will embark on night hikes, engage in educational activities, and have the chance to meet animal ambassadors up close. The program is hosted in rooms that can accommodate up to 10 people, each with a view of the Discovery Rainforest.
Zoo After Dark: 21+ Overnight
For adults aged 21 and above, the Zoo After Dark experience provides a unique after-hours adventure. The evening begins with an interactive social hour featuring drinks and light bites, followed by a behind-the-scenes tour of the Hippo Cove exhibit. Participants will then gather around a campfire to enjoy s’mores before retiring to their shared safari tents, equipped with bunk-bed cots. The next morning, guests will wake up to a delicious breakfast overlooking the Giraffe Ridge.
School & Group Overnights
The Cincinnati Zoo also offers overnight programs tailored for schools, scouts, youth groups, and other organizations. These programs are designed for participants aged 5 and up and include a tour of the zoo, opportunities to meet animal ambassadors, educational activities, and behind-the-scenes experiences. Participants will sleep in the Harold C. Schott Education Center and wake up to breakfast and a special animal encounter.
Overnight Adventure Schedule
The Cincinnati Zoo’s overnight programs follow a consistent schedule, with the evening portion running from 6:00 pm to 10:30 pm (with lights out at 11:00 pm) and the morning portion starting at 7:00 am, including breakfast and a special animal experience from 7:45 am to 9:00 am.
Sleeping Arrangements
The sleeping arrangements for the Cincinnati Zoo’s overnight programs vary based on the specific program. For family overnights, participants will have their own room, while for adult overnights, participants will share the Twiga Tents with up to 10 people per tent.
Cancellation Policy
The Cincinnati Zoo’s overnight programs occur rain or shine, but in the event of severe weather, the zoo reserves the right to cancel a program by 5:00 pm on the day of the program. In such cases, participants will receive a full refund or have the option to reschedule.
FAQs
The Cincinnati Zoo’s overnight programs have a few key details to keep in mind:
- Parking and Arrival: The Education Building Parking Lot opens 15 minutes prior to the program start time, and participants should not arrive too early, as staff may not be available to allow entry.
- Morning Pick-ups: The earliest pick-up time is 7:45 am, and participants who need to leave earlier should coordinate their departure at the end of the program the night before (around 10:30 pm).
Additional Programs
In addition to the overnight programs, the Cincinnati Zoo offers several other evening and after-hours experiences, including:
- Zoo Night Hike: An evening program open to all ages, featuring hikes, games, and animal encounters.
- History and Hijinks: A historical tour of the zoo for participants 16 years and older.
- Private Cart Tour: A two-hour private tour for groups of up to six people, led by an experienced zoo educator.
Cost and Booking
Booking an overnight program at the Cincinnati Zoo requires a 25% non-refundable deposit, due no later than two weeks after the initial booking.
By offering a diverse range of overnight experiences, the Cincinnati Zoo provides zoo enthusiasts with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of the animal kingdom, learn about their unique adaptations, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a family looking for an educational adventure or an adult seeking a unique social experience, the Cincinnati Zoo’s overnight programs have something to offer for everyone.
References:
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g60993-d105691-r578600554-Cincinnati_Zoo_Botanical_Garden-Cincinnati_Ohio.html
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/education/overnights/
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/education/evening-programs/
- https://www.wcpo.com/news/our-community/lifestyle-photo-gallery/spend-the-night-at-the-cincinnati-zoo-if-you-dare
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/afterhoursguide/