Visiting Phoenix Zoo is a real treat. Between animal tours, zoo tours, unique events, and play areas to be discovered, there is endless fun to be had at the city’s non-profit zoo. The zoo is a total oasis for both animals and humans alike as intimate concerts are set to take place in the Zoo’s stunning amphitheater, where you can enjoy a beautiful evening under the stars. But don’t worry, you won’t be seated next to any tigers or zebras during the show!
You’ll find the entrance to the zoo on Galvin Parkway in Papago Park. Although the easiest way to get there is by car, you can also take the light rail to Washington/Priest station and later connect to bus no.1. If you have yet to experience Phoenix Zoo, the perfect day out is waiting for you and your family.
Facts, Curiosities, and Interesting Things about Phoenix Zoo
1. What does the Field Conservation Research Department do?
The Phoenix Zoo’s Field Conservation Research Department is there to understand what challenges threatened animals face in the wild. Using wildlife cameras, acoustic recorders, gunshot detection devices, and more, the department studies animals and their habitat. It then uses this information to work on projects that aim to “protect wildlife and to ensure a future where humans and wildlife coexist”.
2. Art on the Wild Side
Art on the Wild Side is one of the zoo’s many programs and focuses on celebrating wildlife through art. You can visit rotating exhibits at Phoenix Zoo’s Savanna Gallery and Wild Side Gallery. From photography to paint and mixed media, the galleries display inspiring works focused on nature and animals.
3. What kind of animals call the zoo home?
As mentioned before, the zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals. When you visit, you can expect to see a cheetah, Asian elephant, Mexican wolf, coyote, giraffe, Southern white rhino, flamingos, and more. Around 400 species are represented at this Phoenix oasis and these include many endangered species.
Candlelight concerts at Phoenix Zoo
Not only is Phoenix Zoo home to thousands of wild animals, but it also hosts a series of stunning Candlelight concerts. Visitors get the chance to experience the serenity of live music while the glow of thousands of flickering candles illuminates this magnificent open-air venue. With tributes to pop icons such as Taylor Swift and revered composers like Hans Zimmer, Candlelight has something for everyone.
What else can you do at Phoenix Zoo?
Aside from admiring the animals, you can volunteer to help, join camps, kids, and family programs, or connect with horses through the Horse Hands program. You should also head to Harmony Farm to see the cows, chickens, sheep, and goats. And don’t forget to hop on the Safari Cruiser for a 20 to 25-minute ride. Phoenix Zoo is open from 9 am to 5 pm and tickets start at around $27.95.
With the help of the Candlelight glow, live music performances in Phoenix Zoo’s gorgeous amphitheater are sure to be a treat for your eyes and your ears. What’s more, you can also listen to classical renditions of your favorite songs at other venues across Phoenix. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
Note: For the safety of our audience, all of the candlelight will be provided through flameless candles.