Fill your fall calendar with Haunt the Zoo, Pumpkin Drive, Chomp & Stomp, new education programs, events and experiences! 

 

HAUNT THE ZOO TICKETS AND OFFICIAL TREAT BAGS ON SALE NOW!

Enjoy the fun of trick-or-treating through the Zoo while discovering wildlife, too. The Oklahoma City Zoo’s 37th annual Haunt the Zoo for Halloween returns with more treats, extended dates and new surprises. Participants will experience new trick-or-treating methods in place to ensure a safe and memorable experience for all involved. General Zoo admission or memberships plus, official Haunt the Zoo treat bags are required to trick-or-treat and must be purchased in advance at okczoo.org. The cost per treat bag is $7 (nonmembers) or $6 (members). Event capacity is limited for social distancing. Haunt the Zoo runs for four weekends: Oct. 10-11; Oct. 17-18; Oct. 24-25 and Oct. 31-Nov 1, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. To learn more about Haunt the Zoo, visit okczoo.org or call (405) 425-0262.

 

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1 THROUGH WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7: OKC ZOO’S ANNUAL PUMPKIN DRIVE

The Zoo’s rolling out a great deal for you–donate a pumpkin, visit for free! The Oklahoma City Zoo is hosting its annual Pumpkin Drive from Thursday, October 1 through Wednesday, October 7, guests bringing a pumpkin bigger than their heads to the Zoo will receive free same-day admission. The limit is one free admission per person. No pumpkin? No problem! Pumpkins will be available for purchase in front of the Zoo at $10 each or 4 for $25. Reservations are not required for Pumpkin Drive participants. Redeem pumpkins at the Zoo’s check-in point in the Entry Plaza. Donated pumpkins will be used to decorate Haunt the Zoo.

 

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2 AND SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4: VOTER REGISTRATION DRIVE AT THE OKC ZOO

The League of Women Voters of Oklahoma City will be hosting a voter registration drive at the Oklahoma City Zoo from Friday, October 2 through Sunday, October 4 encouraging residents to register to vote. Volunteers will be hosting the voter register table in the Zoo’s Entry Plaza from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day. You will need to provide an unexpired driver’s license or know the last four digits of your Social Security number to register to vote. For more information on registering to vote, visit ok.gov/elections.

 

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2 AND FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9: OKC ZOO OFFERS PARENTS NIGHT OUT PROGRAM

It’s a fun-filled Friday night for both your kiddo(s) and you with Parents Night Out at the Zoo! The OKC Zoo’s education team is ready to give you a break and provide your youngsters with an engaging experience during our new Parents Night Out program. Program activities include a themed lesson, craft activity, pizza dinner, a nighttime Zoo tour and a movie. Program capacity is limited to 15 kids to ensure safe social distancing. Ages: 4-11 years old. Program starts at 6 p.m. with pick up as late as 10 p.m. Prices are $30/child, $25/additional child (members) and $40/child, $35/additional child (nonmembers). Enroll your kiddo(s) today at https://www.okczoo.org/overnight-programs.

 

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6 AND TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13: S&B’S BURGER JOINT “PAY IT FORWARD” NIGHTS BENEFITTING THE OKLAHOMA ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE OKC ZOO

Gather your family and friends for good food and great vibes as you help support wildlife and wild places with S&B’s Burger Joint “Pay It Forward” nights benefiting the Oklahoma Zoological Society and the Oklahoma City Zoo. A portion of the proceeds from each “Pay It Forward” night benefits the Oklahoma Zoological Society, and its programs including animal enrichment, conservation and education outreach in support of the OKC Zoo. Attendees can also participate in raffles and silent auctions at both host locations for an opportunity to take home some Zoo swag, memberships, animal art and more. “Pay It Forward” events are planned for Tuesday, October 6 (S&B’s at 7640 NW Expressway) and Tuesday, October 13 (S&B’s at 14020 N. May Ave), from 5 to 10 p.m. each night. To learn more, call (405) 425-0613.

 

WEEKENDS ONLY, OCTOBER 10 THROUGH NOVEMBER 1: OKC ZOO’S 37TH ANNUAL HAUNT THE ZOO FOR HALLOWEEN

This October, sweeten up your weekends with Oklahoma City Zoo’s 37th annual Haunt the Zoo. Haunt the Zoo brings families together for outdoor, Halloween fun in a safe environment. Event-goers will discover new, contact-free trick-or-treating and 27 themed photo booths along the Haunt the Zoo trail. Expanded to four weekends to allow for adequate social distancing among guests, Haunt the Zoo is happening Saturdays and Sundays, October 10 through November 1. Trick-or-treating is available each day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through timed ticketing. General Zoo admission or memberships plus, official Haunt the Zoo treat bags are required to trick-or-treat and must be purchased in advance at okczoo.org. The cost per treat bag is $7 (nonmembers) or $6 (members).

Trick-or-treaters will go wild as they collect treats from friendly volunteers at 13 candy stations located throughout the park. Volunteers will distribute candy and snacks through 8-foot “treat tubes” into Haunt the Zoo bags from a safe distance. Show off your festive best and wear your Halloween costume to Haunt the Zoo. Adults are encouraged to dress up, too, but nothing scary. Guests are strongly encouraged to wear masks while at the Zoo. Masks are required for all indoor locations and while participating in animal feedings and encounters. All Zoo staff and event volunteers are required to wear masks while working.

Enjoy your favorite fall festival activities during Haunt the Zoo. A Hay Maze and Cheetah Racing Lanes will be open to attendees at no additional cost. Guests can also partake in the following activities for an additional charge: Pumpkin Painting Craft ($5 for members/$6 for non-members), special themed Sea Lion Presentation ($5 per person), and ride on the bewitched Choo Choo Train ($3 per person), Carousel ($3 per person) and Tram ($6 per person). Tickets for these attractions will be limited and can be purchased in advance or on-site. Haunt the Zoo sponsors to date include Frito Lay, Sam’s Club and Tinker Federal Credit Union. To learn more about Haunt the Zoo, visit okczoo.org or call (405) 425-0262.

 

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10: REGISTRATION OPENS FOR TURKEY TROT RUN PRESENTED LOCALLY BY OKC ZOO AND BOB MOORE SUBARU

Are you ready to make strides for monarch conservation? The Oklahoma City Zoo is encouraging monarch fans and running enthusiasts to experience a virtual 5K with America’s Turkey Trot 2020, presented locally by Bob Moore Subaru and benefitting the Zoo. Be part of the nation’s biggest virtual running event and run your own race, indoors or outdoors, at your own pace then post your final time online. Participants also receive an official Turkey Trot swag bag with registration. The cost per runner is $40 (plus, $4.95 processing fee) and for every registration that comes through the OKC Zoo’s event page, the Zoo’s Monarch conservation program will receive $10! Event registration goes live Saturday, October 10, at okczoo.org/turkeytrot2020. Virtually trot, walk or run so monarchs can fly!

 

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15; FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16 AND MONDAY, OCTOBER 19: OKC ZOO’S SCHOOL’S OUT DAY CAMPS

Enrollment is now open for the Oklahoma City Zoo’s School’s Out Day Camps for October and the holiday months. The OKC Zoo’s education department offers daily themed camps that include educational activities, in-park exploration, up-close animal ambassador visits and more. October camp dates and themes are:

  • Thursday, October 15: Horns, Hooves and Herds – Whether it’s a galloping gazelle or a hard-headed ram, these wild cattle are built to last. Stomp on over as we explore more about these hooved heroes and what they do to protect the herd.
  • Friday, October 16: Paws, Claws and Packs – Are you a lone wolf or do you hang out in a pride? Get ahead of the pack as you learn about how wild cats and dogs thrive! 
  • Monday, October 19: Feathers, Beaks and Flocks – Birds of a feather, flock together…well not always! Explore how these winged wonders navigate the world, whether alone or in a flock.

School’s Out Day Camps are available for children ages 4 to 11. The cost is $45 per camper (members) and $50 per camper (nonmembers) per day. Camps run from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with after-care provided from 4:30-5:30 p.m. for $10/day. at the OKC Zoo’s Rosser Conservation Education Center. Campers must bring their lunch and snacks. Space is limited and advance registration is required. To register, visit okczoo.org/schools-out or call (405) 425-0218.

 

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16: OKC ZOO’S CHOMP AND STOMP ENRICHMENT EVENT

It’s pumpkin chomping and stomping time at the Zoo! Make plans to attend the Oklahoma City Zoo’s popular animal enrichment event, Chomp and Stomp, on Friday, October 16 and watch as various animals devour a plethora of pumpkins from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. In preparation for Chomp and Stomp, caretakers have been busy slicing, dicing and carving pumpkins into festive treats for the animals that showcase this year’s theme: Orange You Scared? These edible creations are presented as part of the Zoo’s ongoing animal enrichment program, designed to stimulate their senses and encourage natural behaviors like foraging. An official event schedule will be posted on the Zoo’s website and social pages. This activity is free with Zoo admission.

 

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24: OKC ZOO OFFERS FAMILY CAMP OUT PROGRAM

From s’mores to roars, camping at the Oklahoma City Zoo has it all! This new family program hosted by the OKC Zoo’s education team invites participants to enjoy all things camping in the safe and unique setting of the Zoo. Campers will pitch their own tent on Zoo grounds, go for an evening hike through the park, snack on s’mores, enjoy animal themed stories and snooze under the stars. This program includes an animal presentation, a light breakfast plus, Zoo admission for the next day. Participants must provide their own tent and gear. Program is ideal for ages 4 and older. Children must have an adult enrolled with them. Cost is $40 per person. Program capacity is limited to ensure safe social distancing so register early at https://www.okczoo.org/overnight-programs.

 

WEDNESDAYS IN OCTOBER: OKC ZOO’S SAFARI STUDY HALL

Safari Study Hall (SSH) is in session every Wednesday in October at the Oklahoma City Zoo providing a unique way to enhance your student’s virtual learning through their favorite zoo-centric activities. Your student’s day will include Zoo tours, animal ambassador encounters, S.T.E.A.M. themed activities and more. SSH is held from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. Drop off is from 8–8:30 a.m. only. Late pick up, 4:30-5:30 p.m., is available for an additional fee. This program is for ages 8-11. Register now at www.okczoo.org/safari-study-hall. Prices are $45/child (members) and $50/child (nonmembers).

 

ONGOING: ART GONE WILD, ART MADE BY THE OKC ZOO’S ANIMALS FOR ANIMALS

Art Gone Wild, the Oklahoma City Zoo’s collection of original animal paintings, continues to amaze wildlife lovers near and far with our animals’ artistic talents. Pieces from this year’s collection include paintings by elephants, giraffe, goats, ostrich, various reptiles, sea lions and tigers, and more – all on display and available for purchase in the Zoo’s Guest Services office. With assistance from their caretakers, each animal uses its own technique to express their creative side onto the canvas. Art Gone Wild is part of the Zoo’s enrichment program and the paints are safe for the animals to use as they are non-toxic and washable. Prices for these wild works of art range from $35 to $300, depending on size. All net proceeds benefit one of the Zoo’s conservation initiatives. Art Gone Wild paintings are on display in the Zoo’s Guest Services office located in the Entry Plaza from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Masks are required for all guests 11 and older upon entry into Guest Services. To learn more, call (405) 425-0262. 

 

ONGOING: OKC ZOO’S STATEWIDE LIBRARY PROGRAM, READ FOR ADVENTURE, BRINGS OKLAHOMANS TOGETHER THROUGH READING, FREE ZOO TICKETS

Read for Adventure, the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden’s statewide library program, brings Oklahoma families together through reading and family fun. Sponsored by OG&E, this year’s program features a new, original children’s book, Juniper’s Butterfly Garden, inspires kids to read with the story of a child’s journey as she learns about monarch butterflies. Monarchs migrate annually through Oklahoma on their journey from central Mexico to southern Canada and both the OKC Zoo and OG&E are committed to conserving vital habitats that benefit all pollinators. The Read for Adventure program is aimed at promoting literacy statewide and invites library card holders to check out Juniper’s Butterfly Garden, from any participating public and tribal library location within the state, to receive a voucher redeemable for FREE general admission to the OKC Zoo for up to four people (child, adult or senior). Vouchers are redeemable through June 30, 2021. For a list of participating libraries, visit www.okczoo.org/readforadventure.

 

ONGOING:  OKC ZOO ATTRACTIONS – FALL SEASON SCHEDULE

Fall into more fun with these exclusive OKC Zoo animal feedings, attractions and rides being offered daily. Attraction capacity is limited to maintain adequate social distancing among guests. Guests can pre-purchase tickets for all Zoo rides and attractions when they make their online reservation at http://www.okczoo.org/tickets or purchase them in the park. All rides and attractions are operational weather permitting and schedules are subject to change without notice.

  • Flamingo Mingle: Flamingle with our flock and feed the Zoo’s American flamingos! Flamingo Mingle feedings occur daily, weather-permitting, in the Children’s Zoo habitat from 9:30-10:30 a.m. and 3:30-4:30 p.m. Cost is $7 per person. Children age 2 and under are not permitted. Participants age 3+ must wear a mask during this up-close animal encounter for the protection of guests and staff.
  • Elephant Express Tram: Embark on a guided Zoo tour as you travel from the Entry Plaza to Sanctuary Asia. Rides offered Monday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All day bracelets are $6 per person. Children two and under free.
  • Camel Rides: If you haven’t met camels, Fred, Mongo and Bill there’s still time. Daily rides available from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Cost is $6 per person. Children under 6 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Children age 2 and under are not permitted. Participants age 3+ must wear a mask during this up-close animal encounter for the protection of guests and staff. Additional rules are posted at the habitat.
  • Centennial Choo Choo: The Choo Choo is open Monday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cost is $3 per person. Children two and under free.
  • Endangered Species Carousel: Carousel rides are available Monday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cost is $3 per person.
  • Explorikeet Feedings (Children’s Zoo): Discover the hands-on fun of feeding our lorikeets! Opportunities available Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cost is $4 per person. Participants age 3+ must wear a mask during this up-close animal encounter for the protection of guests and staff. This attraction closes for a “bird break” from 1-1:30 p.m.
  • Giraffe Feeding Platform: Be spotted feeding our gentle giants–Ellie, Julu and Demetri! Daily feeding opportunities from 11 a.m. to noon and 2 to 3 p.m. Cost is $5 per person. Children age 2 and under are not permitted. Participants age 3+ must wear a mask during this up-close animal encounter for the protection of guests and staff.
  • NEW Rhino Feedings: For one of the most magical experiences in the OKC Zoo, make plans to feed one of the Zoo’s Indian rhinos! Feeding opportunities available on Saturday and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. at Sanctuary Asia. Cost is $10 per person. Children age 2 and under are not permitted. Participants age 3+ must wear a mask during this up-close animal encounter for the protection of guests and staff. Additional rules are posted at the habitat.
  • Sea Lion Presentations: Add a splash of fun to your day with these fun and engaging presentations! Daily presentations at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Zoo’s Sea Lion Presentation Stadium. Cost is $5 per person. Children two and under are free.
  • Stingray Bay: Stingray Bay makes a splash with up-close encounters and feeding opportunities with these majestic creatures. Cost is $4 per person to enter. Stingray feedings are 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. for an additional $3 per person. Participants age 3+ must wear a mask during this up-close animal encounter for the protection of guests and staff. Stingray Bay is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

ONGOING: OKC ZOO’S RIDE IT ALL WRISTBANDS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

All aboard! Oklahoma City Zoo guests can add a Ride It All wristband to their admission ticket to enjoy unlimited rides on the Zoo’s Endangered Species Carousel, Centennial Choo Choo train and Elephant Express Tram. Daily capacity for all rides is limited to ensure safe social distancing. Rides will be cleaned and sanitized between each stop. The Elephant Express tram travels from the Entry Plaza to the Zoo’s newest expansion, Sanctuary Asia and includes a narrated tour by the Zoo’s knowledgeable and experienced drivers along the way. Due to the popularity of all rides, guests with Ride It All wristbands may experience brief lines at each attraction. Lines should dissipate quickly. The price for a Ride It All wristband is $10 per person for all ages plus general Zoo admission. Guests presenting a valid military ID will receive a price of $19/person for all ages. ZOOfriends members can purchase a Ride It All for $10/person for all ages. To purchase advance Zoo admission tickets and Ride It All wristbands, visit http://www.okczoo.org/tickets. 

 

ONGOING: OKC ZOO’S WILD ENCOUNTERS

The Oklahoma City Zoo’s Wild Encounters enable animal lovers to get up close and personal with grizzly bears, Galapagos tortoises, Indian rhinos, sea lions and Asian elephants! Wild Encounters are premium experiences that let you see some of your favorite Zoo animals in up-close ways like never before. Connect with our expert caretakers and learn about the animals they care for each and every day and the Zoo’s efforts to conserve their wild counterparts. Wild Encounters are available daily and each experience comes with a souvenir lanyard! These encounters are also ideal gifts for any occasion. There is a maximum of ten people per encounter and participants must wear masks. Prices range from $40–$50 per person depending on the encounter. Children age 2 and under are not permitted. Participants age 3+ must wear a mask during this up-close animal encounter for the protection of guests and staff. ZOOfriends’ members receive discount per encounter. For additional information about Wild Encounters or to make a reservation, contact Guest Services at (405) 425-0262.

 

ONGOING: OKC ZOO KEYS CONNECT GUESTS TO THEIR FAVORITE ANIMALS, FUN FACTS

Sponsored by Oklahoma’s Own News9, Oklahoma City Zoo Keys connect guests to their favorite animals through fun and interesting facts. A popular Zoo activity that began in the 1960s, OKC Zoo Keys are back for new generations to experience. Guests of all ages can unlock recorded messages from more than 20 displays throughout the Zoo. Each display shares information about the Zoo’s signature species and conservation efforts voiced by some of News9’s well-known anchors and meteorologists. Collect all five key options available in various colors! Cost is $4 per key. Zoo Keys are available for purchase daily at the Guest Services office, stroller window (Entry Plaza) and Explorikeet habitat in the Children’s Zoo.

 

ONGOING: OKC ZOO POO AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

The Oklahoma City Zoo’s premium compost, OKC ZOO POO, takes your garden and flower beds from mild to wild! Sourced from organic plant material and members of the Zoo’s animal family including the Asian elephants, Indian rhinos, giraffe and various hoofstock, OKC ZOO POO is brown gold! OKC ZOO POO is available for purchase at the Zoo's Guest Services office, located in the Entry Plaza. Purchase a small bag for $3.99 or a large bag with a reusable tote bag and a packet of pollinator seeds for $14.99. To learn more, call (405) 425-0262 or visit okczoo.org.

 

ONGOING: OKC ZOO’S CONSERVATION WRISTBANDS

Show your love and support for the OKC Zoo with our one-of-a-kind conservation wristbands. These wild wristbands are available to purchase at the OKC Zoo’s stroller window in the Entry Plaza for $2 each, with all proceeds benefitting the Zoo’s conservation programs both locally and globally. Choose from 10 different animal designs including butterfly, elephant, flamingo, giraffe, gorilla, honeybee, lion, red panda, rhino and turtle.

 

Zoo outings in October are packed with candy, pumpkins, festive activities and more! The Oklahoma City Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Advance tickets are required for all guests and ZOOfriends members and can be purchased at www.okczoo.org/tickets.  Zoo tickets are limited each day to maintain social distancing among guests.

Located at the crossroads of I-44 and I-35, the OKC Zoo is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the American Alliance of Museums, Oklahoma City’s Adventure District and an Adventure Road partner. Regular admission is $12 for adults and $9 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children two and under are admitted free. Stay up-to-date with the Zoo on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and by visiting Our Stories. Zoo fans can support the OKC Zoo by becoming a member. Memberships can be purchased at ZOOfriends.org or any place admission is sold in the Zoo’s Entry Plaza during regular business hours. To learn more about this event and other happenings, call (405) 424-3344 or visit okczoo.org.