The doors are open well into the evening with the last admission at 7:00 p.m., closing at 8:00 p.m. (Extended evening hours typically begin on Memorial Day. Due to COVID-19 prevention measures in 2020, the Zoo did not open to the public until July 4 this year.) Discover why the extended evening hours are so fun at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo.
View the COVID-19 prevention measures and precautions in place at the Zoo here. Or find reopening information for all of our top attractions here.
Extended Hours at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
Less Crowded
If big crowds aren’t your thing, then evening hours are the perfect time to visit the Zoo.
Most young kiddos are getting ready for bed, and the Zoo is noticeably less crowded. You can enjoy the exhibits at your leisure. The lines for the various rides are small or non-existent. You will feel as though you (almost) have the entire Zoo to yourself.
Plus, while the Zoo operates at limited capacity this summer, visiting in the later afternoon and evening hours can help you avoid waiting in lines for admission and rides!
The Weather is Better
If you’ve visited the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo before, you already know that the hot summer temperatures never stop people from visiting. The parking lot is always packed, even on the hottest days (which goes to show how much people love the Zoo)!
However, if you go during evening hours, you will find your visit even more enjoyable. The temperature has significantly cooled and you can really enjoy being outdoors. There’s plenty of shade and seating around, and the evening hours are the best time to enjoy it. The best part is that many animals also venture out from their napping spots during this time for the very same reason.
It’s a Great Place for Date Night
Despite the name, the Fort Wayne’s Children’s Zoo is not just for children. Plenty of couples happily visit alone.
With the extended evening hours, the zoo is a great place to plan a date night. You can stroll through the Indonesian Rainforest or Indiana Family Farm, where you can brush the goats and have a laugh. From there, you can take a canoe ride with your significant other in the Australian Adventure or enjoy the Sky Safari ride in the African Journey. Finish the night by grabbing a bite to eat at Ray’s Barefoot Grill or an ice-cream from Matilda’s Sweet Treats.
Special Evening Events at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
This summer, the Zoo will also host a number of unique events in the evenings, both for families and adults. Summer 2020 events include:
Story Time at the Zoo
Through October 2020
On Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m., children ages five and under can listen to animal-themed stories at the zoo. (Children must be accompanied by an adult.)
Corks for Conservation 2020
July 21, 2020, from 6:30-9:30 p.m.
This event will highlight wildlife conservation and the work that is being done globally. For more information on this or any other event, please contact the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo directly.
Zoofari
August 7, 2020, from 6-9 p.m.
Adults 21 and older can sample food, beer and wine from local restaurants and breweries. Have fun, listen to music, and enjoy the zoo!
Zoobilee: The Great Catsby
September 9, 2020, from 6-10 p.m.
This signature gala features fabulous food, drinks, entertainment, and impact! The evening is a celebration of what makes our Zoo so great, as we ROAR into the next decade.
Purchase your Tickets Today!
FORT WAYNE CHILDREN'S ZOO
Address: 3411 Sherman Blvd Fort Wayne, IN 46808
Phone: (260) 427-6800
Website: Visit Website
Hours (through October 31):
- 9-11:30 a.m. — Members Only with reserved, timed ticket
- Noon-7 p.m. — Open to the public (No timed ticket required.)
This blog was originally published in June 2019. Last updated in July 2020.
