What is included with admission to the Indianapolis Zoo?

Your admission grants full access to all exhibits at the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens, including keeper chats, demonstrations, and presentations such as the daily Dolphin Presentation. You can also enjoy public, non-fundraising events like ZooBoo and Christmas at the Zoo. Animal feedings and rides, however, require an additional fee.

Is the Indianapolis Zoo accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens are fully ADA accessible. The facility provides ramps, automatic doors, wheelchair-accessible tables, and an elevator in the Hilbert Conservatory. Accessible parking is available, and wheelchair-accessible shuttles operate from the South Lot. The Zoo is also Sensory Inclusive certified, offering sensory bags, weighted lap pads, and designated quiet areas.

Can visitors bring outside food or pets into the Indianapolis Zoo?

Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the Zoo, though water bottles are encouraged. To ensure the health and safety of the animals, only service animals consistent with applicable laws and regulations are allowed on Zoo grounds; therapy or emotional support animals are not permitted.

ZooIndiana, US

Indianapolis Zoo

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About

Nestled within the scenic White River State Park in Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Zoo offers an extraordinary journey into the natural world, combining the best features of a zoo, an aquarium, and a botanical garden. As the first institution in the United States to achieve triple accreditation in all three categories, it presents a diverse and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. Spanning 93 acres, the zoo is a vibrant blend of meticulously crafted animal habitats and lush botanical landscapes, designed to engage and inspire a deeper connection to wildlife and conservation.Your adventure through the Indianapolis Zoo unfolds across distinct biomes, each transporting you to a different corner of the globe. Roam the vast Plains to encounter majestic African elephants, graceful giraffes, and swift cheetahs.

Delve into the dense Forests, home to fascinating creatures like red pandas and powerful tigers. The Deserts biome showcases resilient species such as meerkats and various reptiles, while the Flights of Fancy aviary allows you to marvel at a stunning array of birds, including the magnificent macaws. Beyond the terrestrial, the Oceans exhibit plunges you into aquatic wonders, where you can witness bottlenose dolphins performing captivating shows, touch gentle sharks in a dedicated pool, and observe playful penguins and sea lions.A highlight of any visit is the renowned Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center, where these intelligent primates navigate a "functional forest," demonstrating their incredible agility and cognitive abilities.

Nearby, the International Chimpanzee Complex provides a fascinating glimpse into the social behaviors of chimpanzees, often seen traversing overhead tunnels throughout the park. Complementing the animal exhibits are the exquisite White River Gardens, offering a serene escape with its diverse plant collections, striking architectural features, and the tranquil Hilbert Conservatory. The Indianapolis Zoo is not just an attraction; it's a leader in animal conservation, with a portion of every ticket contributing to global wildlife protection efforts, making your visit a meaningful contribution to saving species. Eager to name that creature? Identify any animal you find during your visit using the Snappit app.

The vision for the Indianapolis Zoo began to take shape in the 1940s, largely spurred by local newspaper columnist Lowell Nussbaum, who passionately advocated for its creation in his "Inside Indianapolis" column. This advocacy led to the incorporation of the Indianapolis Zoological Society in October 1944. After years of planning and fundraising, the first iteration of the Indianapolis Zoo, then known as the Washington Park Children's Zoo, officially opened its doors on April 18, 1964, in George Washington Park. It quickly became a popular destination, attracting over 270,000 visitors in its inaugural year.As the zoo's animal collection and conservation ambitions grew, it became clear that a larger, more modern facility was needed. In 1982, plans were set in motion to relocate the zoo to its current, more prominent downtown site within White River State Park. The new Indianapolis Zoo opened on June 11, 1988, marking a significant milestone in its development. A defining achievement came in 1996 when the Indianapolis Zoo became the first institution in the United States to earn triple accreditation as a zoo, an aquarium, and a botanical garden, a testament to its comprehensive approach to wildlife, aquatic life, and horticulture.

What to do here

Engage with animal feedings (available for giraffes, flamingos, and lorikeets), experience the unique Kangaroo Crossing walkabout, enjoy the daily Dolphin Presentation, and take a ride on the Kōmbo Coaster or the Skyline for aerial views of the park. Explore the diverse biomes from Deserts to Forests, and be sure to spend time in the White River Gardens.

Seasonal info

Spring: Animals are very active, moderate weather is pleasant for walking, and special events like xZOOberance often occur. Summer: Peak season with extended hours and all attractions, including water features, fully operational. Be prepared for larger crowds and warmer temperatures; visit early in the morning to beat the heat. Fall: Cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage create a picturesque setting, making for a more relaxed visit with fewer crowds. Winter: Shorter operating hours, but the zoo hosts popular events like Christmas at the Zoo, featuring festive lights. Some animals, particularly certain birds, may be housed indoors.

Accessibility

The Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens are fully ADA accessible, featuring ramps at multi-level exhibits, automatic doors, wheelchair-accessible tables, and an elevator in the Hilbert Conservatory. Accessible parking and wheelchair-accessible shuttles are available. The zoo is also a KultureCity-certified Sensory Inclusive institution, offering sensory bags with noise-reduction headphones, fidget tools, and communication cards, as well as weighted lap pads and designated quiet zones. ASL interpreters and assistive hearing devices can be requested in advance for the Dolphin Presentation.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: With 64 acres of diverse exhibits, a full day (5-7 hours) is recommended to explore all the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens have to offer. Plan ahead with a map to maximize your experience.
Best time to visit: Spring is often considered ideal due to moderate temperatures, which make animals more active, and generally fewer crowds. Early mornings are also highly recommended year-round, as animals are typically most active during the cooler parts of the day, and visitor numbers are lower. Visiting on a weekday outside of school holidays can help avoid the largest crowds.
Location: Indiana, US
Species in this guide: 16

Best for

Families With ChildrenAnimal And Wildlife EnthusiastsConservation AdvocatesVisitors Seeking Accessible And Sensory Inclusive Experiences

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Don't miss

Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center

immersive International Chimpanzee Complex

captivating Dolphin Presentation

interactive Shark Touch Pool

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Harbor Seal

Polar Bear

Red Panda

Meerkat

Sea Lion

Desert Tortoise

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Purchase tickets online in advance

This can save you both money (up to 50% on certain days) and time, allowing for expedited entry.

Arrive early

Many animals are most active in the cooler morning hours, and you'll experience fewer crowds, making for better viewing and photography opportunities.

Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire: You'll be doing a lot of walking across 64 acres, so comfortable footwear is a must.

Check the daily schedule for presentations and feedings: Plan your route around must-see events like the Dolphin Presentation and animal feeding opportunities (giraffes, flamingos, lorikeets) to enhance your visit.

Utilize the accessibility and sensory resources: If you or a family member has sensory needs, take advantage of the KultureCity sensory bags and quiet zones to ensure a comfortable experience.

Consider a rainy day visit

Fewer crowds and often more playful animals can make for a surprisingly delightful and personal zoo experience. Just remember an umbrella!

Frequently asked questions

: Your admission grants full access to all exhibits at the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens, including keeper chats, demonstrations, and presentations such as the daily Dolphin Presentation. You can also enjoy public, non-fundraising events like ZooBoo and Christmas at the Zoo. Animal feedings and rides, however, require an additional fee.
: Yes, the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens are fully ADA accessible. The facility provides ramps, automatic doors, wheelchair-accessible tables, and an elevator in the Hilbert Conservatory. Accessible parking is available, and wheelchair-accessible shuttles operate from the South Lot. The Zoo is also Sensory Inclusive certified, offering sensory bags, weighted lap pads, and designated quiet areas.
: Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the Zoo, though water bottles are encouraged. To ensure the health and safety of the animals, only service animals consistent with applicable laws and regulations are allowed on Zoo grounds; therapy or emotional support animals are not permitted.