Zoo After Hours presented by the Minnesota Lottery
Join us for Zoo After Hours – an 18+ Minnesota Zoo experience!
Experience the Minnesota Zoo like never before at Zoo After Hours—evenings exclusively for adults! On January 31, February 14, March 21, and April 25, the Zoo is extending its hours so adults like you can unwind with the wildlife. Make it a memorable date night or a meetup with friends. The Wonder of Nature awaits you!
Under the Sea Night
January 31, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
You have to sea it to believe it! Zoo After Hours is back and full of more creature features than ever before. Come explore life under the waves in this ocean-themed evening. Take your seat for Royal Credit Union Sea Lion Discovery to learn about amazing marine mammals. Dine, drink, and dance -- and don't miss Keeper Chats about Snooki the sea turtle and endangered zebra sharks. Bring your deep knowledge of the oceans and competitive spirit because Trivia Mafia will be here!
Plus:
- Meet Ambassador Animals up close
- Make enrichment items for animals that will engage their curiosity
- Specialty food and beverages for purchase
- Trivia Mafia
- Silent Dance Party
- Photo Booth
- Gift Shop
Costume Contest with prizes from the Minnesota Lottery. Cause an ocean commotion with your outfit! Show off your fin-tastic interpretation of the categories: Deep-Sea Dazzler, Shell-Yeah! Creativity Award, and (group costume) School of Fish.
Tickets
Tickets are limited and not refundable. Advance, online ticket purchase is required to attend.
• Member Adult: $15 early bird special ($20 day of the event)
• Non-Member Adult: $20 early bird special ($25 day of the event)
Parking $10 per vehicle (Free for MN Zoo Members)
• Online tickets required with limited capacity
• Children, including infants, will not be admitted
Groups of 15 or more, please contact Group Sales at 952-431-9200 or email [email protected]
Dining Options
Plan to enjoy specialty food items at Call of the Wild.
Menu
Available for purchase: Seafood specials include sushi, walleye cakes, shrimp po-boys and hibachi salmon. Plus: salads, burgers, chicken tenders, and vegetarian dishes.
Wild Hearts - Zoo After Hours
February 14, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Got Valentine’s plans? Make it tropical instead of typical! At the adults-only event Zoo After Hours on Saturday, February 14, you can see the holiday in a whole new way... with pink flamingoes, red river hogs, and white-cheeked gibbons. Bring your sweetheart, gals, or pals for an endearing evening of delicious food, drinks, dancing, and the company of animals. Don’t miss Royal Credit Union Sea Lion Discovery, love-themed tours, up-close animal encounters, and hearty chef’s specials. Study up on matters of love because Trivia Mafia will be here!
Plus:
- Fire & Ice Lounge: outdoor ice bar, fire pits, live music, and photo ops
- Cannoli and wine samples included with your ticket! Specialty food, cocktails, and mocktails for purchase.
- Photo ops with Divers
- Meet Ambassador Animals up close
- Make enrichment items for animals that will engage their curiosity
- Name a Bug for your loved one (and help support the critical work of the Zoo!)
- Silent Dance Party
- Gift Shop with the sweetest souvenirs
- Costume Contest with prizes from the Minnesota Lottery. Dress to impress and express your love for the animal kingdom and each other.
Tickets
Tickets are limited and not refundable. Advance, online ticket purchase is required to attend.
• Member Adult: $40 early bird special ($45 day of the event)
• Non-Member Adult: $45 early bird special ($50 day of the event)
Parking $10 per vehicle (Free for MN Zoo Members)
• Online tickets required with limited capacity
• Children, including infants, will not be admitted
Presented by:
Upcoming Zoo After Hours for Adults (18+)
• Saturday, February 14, 2026 from 5:30 – 8:30 pm Wild Hearts at the Zoo
• Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 5:30 – 8:30 pm The Best Staycation — and a Moonlight Stroll on the Treetop Trail!
• Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 5:30 – 8:30 pm Farm Babies!
13000 Zoo Boulevard
Apple Valley, MN 55124
952.431.9200
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