omaha zoo behind the scenes tour

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Behind-the-Scenes Experiences

Omaha’s henry doorly zoo and aquarium® offers three new behind-the-scenes experiences.

Omaha, Neb. (March 15, 2019) – Registration is now open for three additional behind-the-scenes experiences at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. 

Giraffe Backstage Pass Meet the Zoo’s herd of reticulated giraffes as you tour exclusive behind-the-scenes areas in the Syd and Betty Cate Family Giraffe Herd Rooms. This experience will be offered on the second and fourth Tuesday beginning April through September from 1 to 2 p.m. Cost is $45 for Zoo members and $60 for non-members (includes Zoo admission). Participants must be eight years or older.  

Center for Conservation and Research Backstage Pass Enjoy a private tour of the Bill and Berniece Grewcock Center for Conservation and Research where Zoo scientists are working to help animals and plants all around the world. This experience will be offered every Thursday beginning in April from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Cost is $45 for Zoo members and $60 for non-members (includes Zoo admission). Participants must be eight years or older.

Animal Art Experience These unique painting sessions feature an animal artist and a one-of-a-kind masterpiece (each group can choose between one 16” x 20” canvas or four 8” x 10” canvases). Animal Art Experiences will be offered every Friday beginning in April from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Cost is $140 for a Zoo member group of four and $180 for a non-member group of four (includes Zoo admission).

The pre-assigned animal artist schedule is as follows:

• First Friday of the month: Snake Artist
• Second Friday of the month: Turtle Artist
• Third Friday of the month: Small Mammal Artist
• Fourth Friday of the month: Lizard Artist

Other Backstage Pass experience areas include the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium, Kingdoms of the Night, Lied Jungle® and octopus habitat.

Registration is required for all experiences. All participants must sign a waiver prior to the program. Guests 17 and younger must be accompanied by a participating adult. Participants should wear non-slip shoes. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. For more information or to register visit OmahaZoo.com/VisitorExperiences.

Consistently ranked as one of the world’s top five zoos, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is an independent not-for-profit organization accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The Zoo is recognized nationally for its conservation, animal care and exhibit design. As a leader in conservation, the Zoo’s Center for Conservation and Research focuses on areas to benefit animal husbandry and species conservation including conservation genetics, conservation medicine, rare plant conservation, reproductive sciences and comparative nutrition.

Michelle Meisinger - Omaha's Zoo

Public Relations Department 402-980-9285 3701 S 10th St | Omaha, NE 68107

Henry Doorly Zoo gives behind-the-scenes tour of new sea lion exhibit

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium has resumed work on the sea lion exhibit. The Zoo was live to give an update.

The Zoo re-opened following pandemic concerns on

At the last report, the Zoo's state of the art sea lion exhibit was scheduled to be unveiled

Construction on the seal lion exhibit began in Fall 2018.

The sea lion's new home is a 27.5 million dollar oasis where the bears used to be. According to the Zoo, the new sea lion exhibit will offer a one of a kind, ocean simulated experience for the sea lions.

Progress on the exhibit has continued as expected by the zoo.

The goal was to create a stimulating experience for the animal's welfare. Additions like a pupping beach, realistic wave machines, warm and cool zones, and hunting-like fish feedings are all coming along.

Six sea lions currently reside at the Zoo and a seventh is on the way from California. The exhibit is designed for 10, the Zoo says they want room to grow.

Along with the animal's welfare, the Zoo also wanted to highlight the sea lion's to the public.

Director Dennis Pate says the sea lions are like underwater ballerinas and he hopes this exhibit will give them the attention they deserve.

Omaha toddler dies after hit by SUV at Neola gas station

Fremont authorities identify man killed in Tuesday afternoon crash

One hospitalized after crash down the road from Benson

Suspect in hospital after stolen ambulance crashes in northwest Omaha

County approves more traffic stops near new Costco in Northwest Omaha

Latest news.

Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial hosts opening day

Organizers make final push to get medical marijuana on Nebraska 2024 ballot

State officials celebrate expansion of Bellevue veterans facility

Police investigate shooting at Omaha hotel

Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial opens to public

What You Can Expect At The Omaha Zoo This Summer (Phased Reopening)

Like everything else in the world, summer 2020 at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is going to look a lot different than normal. Reopening June 1 with several measures in place, I asked the zoo to share what’s different so you know what to expect:

Zoo areas that are currently closed

The zoo is reopening in phases. Phase 1 is pretty cautious with the following closures and restrictions in place:

• All buildings are closed, including exhibits like the aquarium, Desert Dome, and the indoor rainforest. Other buildings that house restaurants and the gift shop are closed, too.
• The Lozier Giant Screen Theater will be closed.
• Outdoor areas that are closed include the Bay Family Children’s Adventure Trails or Scott Alaskan Adventure Splash Park.
• Animal feeding opportunities will not be available.
• There are no behind-the-scenes tours.

Things to know about admission to the zoo

Don’t expect to waltz in with a wave of your membership this summer.

• Reservation for a time to enter the Zoo must be made online before visiting. Make a reservation here . IDs and online reservation receipts will be checked. Members will not be able to transfer their membership to non-members.
• Reservations can be made up to two days in advance of visit. There don’t seem to be any exceptions.
• Admission tickets are discounted at $20.95 for guests ages 12 and over, $13.95 for children ages 3 to 11, and $19.95 for seniors ages 65 and over.
• AZA reciprocal zoo admission program is suspended at this time.
• Timeslots are available every half hour between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily. Good news for members: From June 1-7, there is a Members Only hour from 8 to 9 a.m.
• There is a separate entrance for entering the zoo and exiting the zoo. Park accordingly. The Main Gate is for entrance to the zoo. The North Gate for exiting the zoo.

What it’s going to be like at the zoo in Phase 1

• With buildings closed and a single entrance point and a single exit point, the zoo has created a walking path that’s about 1.8 miles.
• The walking path is one-way traffic only . No backtracking is permitted.
• You have to be prepared to walk it, as there is no tram service available. You can rent strollers, wagons, ECVs, and wheelchairs, though (limited supply).
• Drinking fountains and water refill stations will not be available. Bring your own water.

Things you can do at the zoo during Phase 1

• You can purchase tickets to ride Sue’s Carousel (with appropriate spacing and sanitizing).
• You can buy concessions, but menu offerings will be limited to expedite lines. The Souvenir Cup refill service will not be available.
• There will also be vending machines available, which will be cleaned hourly.
• There will be retail items available for purchase at outside venues.
• You have access to outside restrooms.
• There is an outdoor nursing area.
• Know that there will be signs throughout as reminders and help keep 6 feet between groups in lines.

Precautions you can take while at the zoo this summer

• This goes without saying: Wash your hands frequently. This wasn’t on the zoo’s list.
• Face mask usage by guests is strongly encouraged.
• Guests are strongly encouraged to remain in their vehicles until their reservation time. Officials request guests not stand at the entrance plaza to meet others.

My thoughts on Phase 1

I was disheartened to read so many negative comments to their social media announcement on reopening. It is what it is, friends.

Have patience. These are strange and uncertain times.

I’m glad they’re able to open in a responsible manner. It’s not going to be business-as-usual for many months.

Will I be going any time soon? Maybe not right away. Many of my favorite places, and certainly my kids’ favorite places, will not be open. Nor should they be – they’re popular for a reason (and therefore draw a crowd).

But I miss the zoo. I want the zoo to continue to grow and succeed. So I will be back.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Friday 19th of June 2020

We went today at 9:30. We were back in the van by 11:30, which was just right for our energy and enthusiasm levels. It may not be what we're used to but it's more interesting than our house or a walk around our neighborhood... and less of a risk than school will be! Most groups were wearing masks, at least around us. A cool overcast morning and not crowded - perfect for me! With lots of improvements underway, next summer looks to be pretty cool.

Wednesday 3rd of June 2020

I too am glad of the reopening however I won’t be going for awhile. I bought the season pass for a reason so I could go to different areas then leave. Walking 2 miles is not an option for myself or my husband. Very sad that this is what our world has become

I love visiting just a few exhibits at the zoo, too. The current precautions are understandable, though, so I'll just roll with it.

• Organization
• WildCare Park
• Wildlife Reserve

Visit the Saint Louis Zoo

About your visit.

• Hours and Prices
• Parking and Maps
• Accessibility and Rentals
• Rules and Regulations
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Hotel Partners

Things To Do

• See Animals
• Attractions

Behind-the-Scenes Tours

Explore all Animals

By classification.

• Invertebrates
• Discovery Corner
• River's Edge
• Historic Hill
• Lakeside Crossing

Action, Advocacy and Research

Our conservation efforts.

• Institute for Conservation Medicine
• WildCare Institute
• Reproductive and Behavioral Sciences
• AZA Reproductive Management Center

Animal Care

• Animal Food and Nutrition Center
• Enrichment and Training
• Species Survival Plans
• Veterinary Hospital
• Schools and Organizations
• Virtual Learning
• Education Registration
• Attend an Event
• Host an Event

Have you ever met a penguin, fed a giant tortoise or held a giant walking stick?

Book Your Behind-the-Scenes Tour or Day Program Today!

Share an experience like no other when you go behind the scenes at the Saint Louis Zoo!

Book one of our Zoo Tours or Day Programs to get to know the animals up close and see what it's like to be a zookeeper. Or, book a Specialty Tour to explore the inner workings of facilities such as our veterinary hospital, research laboratories and administration areas.

What to Know Before You Book

• All tours are walking tours. No transportation is provided.
• There is a fee for parking. More information on parking and directions is available here .
• Some tours take place in temperature-controlled environments or outside. Please dress accordingly.
• Closed-toe shoes are required for all tours.
• Tours are not guaranteed to be private unless your group fills the maximum capacity.
• Due to the unpredictability of animals, tour experiences may vary.
• All guests must abide by staff instructions at all times.
• Each tour and program has a specific age requirement listed in the description.
• For safety reasons, children under 18 must be accompanied by a paid adult adult on Zoo Tours and Specialty Tours. Day Programs do not require an adult, however, if a parent or guardian wishes to accompany the participant, they may do so by purchasing an additional ticket.
• While all of our public spaces and guest amenities are fully accessible, some of the behind-the-scenes areas visited through our tours and programs may not be. If there are any physical, cognitive or behavioral needs within your group, please call our Tours Department at (314) 646-4840 so our staff can be prepared to make any reasonable accommodations.
• In compliance with best practices for zoo animal welfare — and the quarantine protocols outlined by federal regulations and the Association of Zoo and Aquarium accreditation standards — service animals are not permitted in our behind-the-scenes animal areas.
• Zoo Tours, Specialty Tours and Day Programs are non-refundable. If it becomes necessary to reschedule your tour or program, please contact Guest Relations at [email protected] or (314) 646-4797 . Zoo Tours, Specialty Tours and Day Programs must be rescheduled within 30 days of cancellation. No refunds or rescheduling opportunities will be given for no-call/no-shows.
• The Saint Louis Zoo reserves the right to cancel any tour due to unforeseeable animal health, weather or staffing issues. In case of such an event, the Zoo will contact you to reschedule.
• Want to give a tour as a gift? Purchase a Zoo gift card here: https://stlzoo.org/services/gift-shops/zoo-merchandise/zoo-gift-cards

Schools (high school level and above) are welcome to book tours, but space is limited. Call our Tours Department at (314)-646-4840 for school tour accommodations.

Talk about a CLOSE encounter! Get to know the Zoo's wildlife in a whole new way with a tour experience you'll remember for a lifetime.

Day Programs

Spend the day with the Saint Louis Zoo’s team of keepers, helping guests learn how to feed the stingrays and touch the sharks! Or, become a train engineer for the day. You'll keep our railroad activities on track, helping passengers, narrating the journey around the Zoo, and operating the whistle and bell.

Specialty Tours

Get a backstage pass to explore our animal care facilities, or take a deep dive into the Zoo's business operations, conservation initiatives and more!

• Essex County
• Zoological Society of New Jersey

• EXPERIENCES
• VISITOR INFO
• GROUPS & PARTIES

Behind the Scenes Tours/Animal Encounters

Register Here!

Search for “Behind the Scenes” at “Turtle Back Zoo”

Please bring your confirmation email to one of the ticket booths in order to enter the zoo.

Behind the Scenes Tours offer a sneak peek at what happens behind the scenes at your favorite Turtle Back Zoo exhibits. Your ticket includes admission to the zoo, a 30 minute tour of one of our animal facilities, and a meet and greet with the animal keeper.  Tour guests do not enter exhibits or touch the animals.  Group sizes are limited based on the Tour location.

• January 6, 13, 20, & 27
• February 3, 10, 17, & 24
• March 3, 10, 17, 24, & 31
• April 7, 14, & 21 (no 4/28)
• May 4, 11, 18, & 25

Animal Encounter Programs are hour-long conservation education programs that feature one of our animals and includes an animal encounter, either in the classroom or out in the zoo.  Your ticket includes admission to the zoo, an education presentation, and bagels and coffee.  Program guests do not enter the exhibits or touch the animals.  Programs are held at the Berson Family Center on the east side of the zoo complex (the building next to the TreeTop Adventure Course).  Arrive as early as 9:50am

• Saturday, February 10, 2024
• Saturday, March 2, 2024
• Saturday, April 6, 2024
• Saturday, May 25, 2024

Behind the Scenes Tours and Animal Encounters are only for ages 6 and over, under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.  All members of the party must have a ticket. No photographs are permitted except when directed; all attendees will sign a photo waiver prior to entering.  Face coverings may be required in some facilities during the tour.

Some buildings contains stairs. If you have questions or concerns about accessibility please contact us so that we may better address your needs at 973-731-5800 ext.103 or [email protected].

Your Behind the Scenes ticket gives you Zoo admission before and/or after the tour. Tour attendees should meet Tour Staff 10-15 minutes prior to the start of the tour-specific locations listed above. Tours start promptly at the agreed-upon time; late arrivals may lose part of the tour by being late, or lose the entire tour without refund. Tours will commence regardless of weather, unless cancelled by the Zoo due to unsafe conditions for our Animals, Staff, or Tour Attendees. If we cancel a tour due to weather we will notify you as soon as possible and will reschedule a date and time. Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions and for walking the Zoo.  Tour and Program guests do not enter the exhibits or touch the animals.

Cancellations or Rescheduling: Cancellations may be made up to 7 days prior to the originally scheduled tour date and time; no refunds will be offered less than 7 days prior to the originally scheduled tour date and time. Cancellations or rescheduling may be made by contacting the Education Department at 973-731-5800 ext.103 or  [email protected] .

Turtle Back Zoo