Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Calling all animal lovers! Get a behind-the-scenes look at different animals areas at the Akron Zoo, learning more about how we care for our animals and provide exceptional wellbeing for each and every animal.
Lion
Get an up-close look at our lions night yard and discover the dedicated care and conservation efforts that go into ensuring their well-being. From learning about local conservation initiatives to understanding our global efforts in Africa, this tour offers a blend of education and excitement. Book your spot now and embark on a journey to appreciate and protect the king of the jungle!
Offered:
- June 1 - Sept. 1: Daily at 12 p.m.
- Sept. 4 - Sept. 29: Thursday - Monday at 12 p.m.
There is a 15-guest maximum. This is for your enjoyment and care for our lions. Tours begin in Pride of Africa by the train. The duration is 15-20 minutes and general park admission is not included in the purchase of a ticket.
Price
- $10 per guest (Under 2 years are free)
Penguin
Waddle behind the scenes for an unforgettable Penguin Tour! You’ll step beyond the glass and go behind the scenes of our penguin habitat! Explore the kitchen where their fishy feasts are prepared, feel the chill of the walk-in freezer and discover their cozy burrow spaces where penguins nest, rest and take care of their little chicks!
During this experience, learn how our keepers care for the penguins and give them lots of toys. After the tour, enjoy the highlight of the experience — *helping feed the penguins from the habitat glass! This small-group, up-close adventure is packed with fun, learning and flipper-flapping excitement, so grab your flock and reserve your spot today.
*Though our penguins love their fish, they may decide that they're not hungry. Our animals always have the option to not participate in feedings or other activities.
Offered:
- June 1 - October 31: Daily at 1:30 p.m.
Price
- $20 per guest (Ages 8 and up)
There is a 6-guest maximum. This is for your enjoyment and care for our penguins. Please arrive at the penguin habitat by 1:20 p.m. Proof of purchase is required. The duration is 15-20 minutes and general park admission is not included in the purchase of a ticket.
Komodo Dragon
Enter the world of the zoo's most powerful reptile! This guided tour will give guests a behind the scenes look at where our Komodo dragons live when they're not on habitat. You'll also discover how accredited zoos, like the Akron Zoo, help protect Komodo dragons through conservation programs. A zoo guide will lead your small group through the dragons' keeper areas and outdoor yard, while sharing fascinating stories about their size, strength, behavior, habitat and daily care. Guests will also learn how keepers safely train and monitor the health of these apex predators. This tour is perfect for the curious explorer who wants a closer look at one of the world's most impressive reptiles!
This tour is best for adults and older children. Any child on this tour must be accompanied by an adult.
Offered:
- June 7 - September 27: Sundays at 3 p.m.
Price
- $10 per guest (This tour is best for adults and older children.)
There is a 10-guest maximum. This is for your enjoyment and care for our Komodo dragons. Please meet at the Komodo dragon viewing area by 2:50 p.m. Proof of purchase is required. The tour duration is 20-30 minutes and general park admission is not included in the purchase of a ticket.