Program changes
The Zoo is reimagining its Education programs! We look forward to welcoming you back, but want to let you know there will be some changes. We will share inspiring stories of our conservation work focused on species found all over the Zoo, and will no longer have live small animal contact in our programs. We're excited to see you soon!
COVID safety
When booking, please plan carefully and accordingly in order to meet our COVID safety policies. These include masking requirements, as well as group size limits. Additionally, a COVID safety contract and liability release will be sent prior to your program date and will need to be signed by an authorized and designated representative of your organization PRIOR to your program taking place.
virtual conservation learning
The Zoo is OPEN. Reservations are required to visit.
Please review the Zoo's current guest guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions.
Attention Groups
Click the links below to learn more about standards-based Distance Learning Programs, enriching Virtual Field Trips, or how your class can Interview an Expert. Information includes program titles and descriptions, program fees, and official program inquiry forms. All programs must be booked a minimum of two weeks in advance.
Distance Learning
Connect with us virtually to for a live, interactive program to learn about the Saint Louis Zoo and various animal adaptations, habitats, and conservation programs.
Virtual Field Trips
Choose your own virtual field trip experience! Two Zoo Educators will guide you on your adventure, one in our Distance Learning studio, and one at the Zoo locations you choose so you can see what the animals are doing! Your students will have a blast learning about Zoo animals and interacting with Zoo Educators while never leaving your classroom.
At the Zoo
These programs take place in classrooms or throughout the grounds. Learn more about programs and printable self-guided scavenger hunts.
Interview an Expert
The Saint Louis Zoo is happy to provide 20-minute virtual expert interviews to students or groups who are learning about specific animals or Zoo-related topics. Led by educators who work closely with our colleagues in Animal Division, they are able to answer your questions about animals in our care, conservation work we are doing at the Zoo and around the world, and the Zoo’s dedication to caring for all animals.
Financial Assistance
Via the generosity of The Boeing Company, grant funding is available through December of 2021 for underserved students.
The Saint Louis Zoo has been a cornerstone of St. Louis since 1910. Located in one of the largest urban parks in the country, the Zoo is open year-round with free admission. We welcome your school to explore this unique educational setting any time of year!
Our award-winning Education Department is available to enhance your learning experiences in a variety of ways, including on-site at the Zoo, at your location and virtually. As a globally recognized conservation organization, our conservation education programs:
- Are led by highly trained educators and highlight the 12,000+* animals that call the Saint Louis Zoo home
- Offer distinctive Zoo experiences designed for school audiences
- Highlight our conservation programs that save species here in Missouri and around the world
- Encourage inquiry-based learning and thought processes that connect curriculum with real-world, authentic and hands-on opportunities
- Align to Missouri and Next Generation Science Standards
- Foster social-emotional connections to the natural world
- Are rooted in evidence-based research for engagement, inclusivity and impact
- Create connections with animals to inspire conservation efforts locally and globally
Consistently recognized as one of the top zoos in the nation, we pride ourselves on supporting innovative and inclusive programming like no other. Our programs are competitively priced, and scholarships may be available. We look forward to supporting your learning objectives during your next Zoo experience!
*2020 census numbers
Group Visits to the Zoo
Important info for Teachers and Group Leaders
The Zoo is OPEN. As part of our commitment to the continued well-being of guests, staff and animals, the Zoo has implemented enhanced protocols and procedures. All guests are required to make a free-timed reservation to visit. See below for group information and reservation link.
Groups of 15 or More — Advance Reservations and Discounts
Groups of 15 or more can make advance reservations when they purchase discounted tickets to attractions, Adventure Passes and meal vouchers through the Group Tickets office. Call (314) 646-4781 or email durfor@stlzoo.org between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. (CDT), Monday through Friday. Full payment for your selected items is due two (2) weeks prior to your event date to ensure entry reservation availability. Your entry reservation will not be confirmed until full payment is received.
Other Group Reservations
The Zoo welcomes groups of any size. For those groups who do not wish to make purchases through the Group Tickets office, Zoo reservations are available seven (7) days prior to your visit. Click here to make a free reservation. Please note, you will need to make multiple group reservations of no more than 50 individuals per group. If you need help or have questions, you can call our reservation help line at (314) 646-4797.
Philosophy Statement
We believe everyone has the right to learn. We believe we have the responsibility to influence positive conservation behavior to save the world. We believe that by fostering empathy, we are creating connections and inspiring action to help people, animals and the natural world. We believe that by collaborating with organizations of all kinds, we are stronger and more effective conservation educators. We believe it is our charge to inspire wonder and encourage curiosity.
To accomplish this, we provide experiences that are conservation-focused, learner-directed, inclusive and creative. We are reflective, intentional, flexible, strategic and passionate in our practice. We commit to providing learning opportunities that are engaging, high quality, evidence-based and developmentally appropriate. We will be leaders in conservation education, and we will change the world.