ZooBoo Tips and Tricks
By: Emily Martin
ZooBoo Tips & Tricks
Everybody scream! ZooBoo at the Indianapolis Zoo is back for another fa-boo-lous year on select dates from September 25th to October 31st starting at 2pm. ZooBoo offers bone-chilling activities, spooky characters, a unique seasonal menu, trick-or-treating, and, of course, animals! There are no reservations required to attend ZooBoo, as it is included in your regular Zoo admission ticket. This event is the perfect opportunity to get into the spirit of Halloween with the whole family. Before you get to the tricks and treats, here are some tips to make the most out of your ZooBoo visit.
Plan to Arrive Early
Although ZooBoo festivities begin at 2pm, we recommend that guests arrive early to allow time for parking and to see the animals before dark. That way, you can have plenty of time for all the ZooBoo activities in Pumpkin Town, the Scarecrow Safari, and Bat Alley.
Make sure to check on any other scheduled events happening in the Indianapolis area and plan your commute to the Zoo accordingly, accounting for increased traffic and construction.
ZooBoo activities are only open Wednesday-Sunday.
Start at Pumpkin Town First
Pumpkin Town is the heart of ZooBoo, and it has a lot to offer, including the return of the Mirror Maze and the all-new family-friendly experience called Leeward Manor. Meet the Leeward sisters, Terra, Wisp, and Bubbles, as they invite guests to tour the magical manor that they call home.
Visit the Animals
Fall means cooler weather, and that also means our animals are becoming more active. All animals will be on exhibit until dusk throughout the duration of ZooBoo.
If the weather becomes cold and rainy, some of our animal friends might not stay outside. If that happens, don’t worry. The Zoo is home to plenty of animals that are native to cooler habitats. Plus, guests can always see all of the wildlife in our indoor exhibits in the new Penny & Jock Fortune International Chimpanzee Complex, Oceans building, Ascension St. Vincent Dolphin Gallery Underwater Viewing, Deserts building, and the Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center.
Dress Accordingly
Indiana weather in the fall can be unpredictable. Be sure to look at the forecast for the day you plan to visit ZooBoo.
Costumes are encouraged for the whole family. Full-face makeup and costume masks are only allowed for guests ages 12 and under.
Bring Your Appetite
Every year, the Zoo’s culinary team creates all kinds of creepy crawly treats specifically for ZooBoo. To keep your energy up during your visit, make sure to stop by the food venues located throughout the Zoo to sink your teeth into these unique feasts.
Sweet and savory foods are available during the event. Be sure to check out our full Foodie Guide presented by Red Gold for the full menu of ZooBoo themed eats and specialty cocktails. From skelly wings, to wolf man waffle fries, there’s so much to taste.
Save the trick or treat trail for last
The Trick-Or-Treat Trail is in the Plains exhibit located in the back of the Zoo. You can work your way through the six neighborhoods of ZooBoo all the way to the Trick-Or-Treat Trail. End your night with a little candy.
We encourage guests to bring a reusable bag from home to use for the Trick-or-Treat Trail.
Adults, don’t forget to swing by the Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center to sample some alcoholic beverages on our Adult Trick-Or-Treat Trail. Adult trick or treat trail is available Friday and Saturday evenings only from 5-8pm.