Please note: As of December 16, 2025 the Education Outreach program no longer brings animal ambassadors offsite and into the community. We still offer virtual programs and in-person community programs with hand-on activities and educational materials *without* ambassador animals.

This page will continue to be updated with our offerings to the community. If you would like more information, please email us at [email protected]. We appreciate your partnership in this time of transition.

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The goal of all Outreach programs is to create and establish a sense of stewardship and respect for the diversity and complexity of all life on earth. Outreach naturalists capture imaginations and stimulate curiosities about the natural world while providing a foundation of information and knowledge for their audiences.

Our current programs (in person and virtual) will focus on the following groups:

  • Seniors center programs
  • Hospitals
  • Support care services in the following group settings:
    • Disabilities
    • Mental Health
    • Special Needs
    • Memory Care
  • Booth programs for community events (at a table like an expo or festival-type event)
  • Middle and High school students for Zoo Careers class

Please note: Programs must be requested more than 2 weeks in advance. Full payment is due 2 weeks in advance.

In-Person (up to 90 miles from the Minnesota Zoo within the state of Minnesota and to sovereign nations)
The Minnesota Outreach team of Naturalists travel to senior centers, hospitals, group support settings, and community organization events (booth program only), providing an entertaining, environmental education experience to a variety of audiences. Outreach Naturalists may use biological artifacts, storytelling, and/or audience participation to create a dynamic, personal, and fun program for all ages.

Virtual (near or far! We have you covered!)
Our Naturalists will introduce you to some of our favorite animal ambassadors with dramatic close-ups and one-of-a-kind virtual encounters.

For more information or to request a program, click on the tiles below.

Regarding contracts
If your organization requires a contract with the Minnesota Zoo, please note that we will send you a Minnesota Zoo contract and will not sign contracts from outside organizations. Our contract includes language regarding animal health and safety that is not found in outside contracts. If you have questions regarding this requirement, please contact us at [email protected].

The Minnesota Zoo Outreach Program is generously supported by the William David Romans and the Jones Family Zoomobile Endowment Funds.