Ah, the holiday season… A time of the year full of family traditions, shopping and cozying up by the fireplace with crafts! Did you know that at Peoria Zoo we can simplify your season by providing a one-stop shop for family fun and shopping? Most people consider the Zoo to be a summer, spring or fall activity and you wouldn’t think of coming to the Zoo in the winter, but we want you to think again!
On a typical winter day, you can still see a number of animals roaming their exhibits. Tigers, lions, zebras and takin are some of the animals that can be in their exhibits during the cold and snowy days of Illinois winter. Take a trip to South America by exploring the Tropics Building where you can come face-to-face with snakes, meerkats, spider monkeys and much more! Next, take a stroll through Africa! where you may see giraffes, mandrills, and Red River hogs in their indoor day rooms.
A Peoria Zoo membership allows you to connect with the animals through all of the seasons. It is the perfect gift for friends, family members or for you to put on your wish list! Did you know that you can receive a free plush giraffe, while supplies last, when you purchase a membership in the Safari Gift Shop? Peoria Zoo members also get discounts in the gift shop, on programs, special events and birthday parties. If you are traveling, know that members receive free or discounted admission at over 150 other zoos and aquariums nationwide.
For fun closer to home, plan to attend two special events the Zoo holds in December. Critter Christmas, which is Sunday, December 3, is when Peoria Zoo animals receive special holiday-themed enrichment items. Watch the animals open their “presents” and visit with Santa. Winter Warming, on December 11, is a special event for members-only. Both events allow you to enjoy the Zambezi River Lodge in Africa! while you enjoy snacks ,warm up by the fireplace, and enjoy activities with your family while overlooking the beautiful scenery of Africa! For more information, please visit peoriazoo.org.
In addition to membership, you can also support the Zoo by adopting an animal, providing animal enrichment through the Giving Tree, or purchasing items in the gift shop. The entrance to Peoria Zoo houses over 1,000 square feet of seasonal merchandise, home goods, plush animals, educational material and apparel. With convenient parking outside the gift shop, stop by and shop with us anytime (no admission fee required to shop.)
As you can see there are many reasons why you can enjoy and support Peoria Zoo all year round-360 days a year! Visit the animals and enjoy special events and programs held during the winter months. Don’t forget… membership makes any day a Peoria Zoo day, and a great gift, too!
