Experience the wild side of Boise at Zoo Boise, where visitors can connect with animals from around the world and take part in meaningful conservation efforts. Located in the heart of Julia Davis Park, Zoo Boise combines animal encounters, hands-on education, and fun seasonal events with a powerful mission: inspiring wildlife conservation through every visit.

Recommended For

Families: Feed farm animals, stroll through butterfly gardens, and meet giraffes and sloth bears face to face.

Animal Lovers: Discover over 300 animals, including tigers, snow leopards, red pandas, and Magellanic penguins.

Conservation Enthusiasts: Support wildlife around the globe through programs like the Conservation Cruise and animal adoption.

Educators & Homeschoolers: Enroll in STEM-aligned programs tailored for preschoolers, homeschoolers, and classrooms.

What to Expect

  • Global Animal Collection: Encounter animals from six continents, including African lions, Asian Komodo dragons, and North American bald eagles.
  • Interactive Experiences: Feed giraffes, greet sloth bears, and pet goats and llamas in the year-round Zoo Farm.
  • Seasonal Exhibits: Don't miss Butterflies in Bloom, where you can walk among hundreds of Costa Rican butterflies inside a flower-filled greenhouse (open June–Labor Day).

History

Zoo Boise was established in 1916 under unusual circumstances—after a monkey escaped a traveling circus and was found near Mountain Home. During the Great Depression, the zoo expanded through animal donations, and over the decades, it became a beloved part of Julia Davis Park, alongside the rose garden and art museum.

Conservation & Adoption

  • Zoo Boise Conservation Fund: A portion of every ticket, attraction, and event supports wildlife conservation worldwide.
  • Animal Adoption: Symbolically adopt a zoo animal to help care for its real-life counterpart—perfect for young conservationists.
  • Conservation Cruise: Enjoy a solar-powered boat ride through a lagoon filled with endangered species, with all proceeds benefiting the zoo’s global conservation programs.

Educational Programs

Zoo Boise offers engaging educational experiences to foster a passion for wildlife and environmental stewardship in learners of all ages.

  • Preschool Zoo: Weekly themed activities for ages 3–5 with stories, crafts, and live animal visits.
  • Homeschool Zoo: Designed for ages 5–7, this science-based program includes labs, discussions, and hands-on animal exploration aligned with Idaho State Science Standards.
  • Field Trips & Youth Groups: Science-rich experiences include nature hikes, zookeeper presentations, and interactive activities. Pre-registration required.
  • Daily Programs: Public animal encounters and keeper chats happen throughout the day—check the schedule upon arrival.

Annual Events

  • Butterflies in Bloom: June–Labor Day
  • Easter EGGstravaganza
  • Mother’s Day Brunch
  • Holiday and seasonal events year-round

Visit the event calendar for a full list of upcoming programs and family-friendly activities.

Visitor Info

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