Beloved fall traditions and newer family favorites come together for a Halloween celebration like no other as ZooBoo presented by Central Indiana Honda Dealers returns to the Indianapolis Zoo. My tiny fairy and I checked it out for Indy’s Child the first year we moved here and have been in love ever since!
Now in its 37th year, ZooBoo will run every Thursday through Sunday in October, providing 16 days of active animals and spooktacular fun. The Zoo will open daily at 9am, and guests are encouraged to come early then stay to enjoy activities from 2-7pm.
Things To Do
Back again this year, the wildly popular Pumpkin Town presented by Macy’s provided an array of whimsical new experiences when it opened in 2017. Visitors will find their favorite activities along with a few extra surprises under the canopy of pumpkins in the Bicentennial Pavilion.
Little ghouls and goblins can create popcorn “potions” alongside the witch of Pumpkin Town, who loves to foster black cats. Other not-so-scary critters, including toads, turtles and rats, can be found inside Jack’s Barn presented by State Farm. A mirror maze will hide thrills around every twist and turn while Pumpkin School presented by Whole Foods Market will provide crafty lessons in laughs. Pumpkin Bowling is a returning favorite, and new this year, guests can try to guess the weight of the giant pumpkin for a chance to win an Animal Art Adventure.
Farther into the Zoo, Broomstick Alley will offer a familiar challenge in a new location. Near the Plains entrance, guests can use a broom to maneuver a jack o’ lantern ball through the extended obstacle course. The Zoo’s rides also feature a Halloween twist, like the Spooktacular Train Ride and the Round-Go-Merry — the carousel that runs in reverse.
What to Wear
Youngsters are encouraged to wear costumes and bring a reusable bag to gather goodies along the Trick-or-Treat Trail presented by Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St. Vincent. Five stations scattered through Plains will provide conservation-conscious snacks that contain only certified sustainable palm oil. Allergy-friendly options are also available upon request.
Speckled with colorful fall foliage, the Zoo’s exhibits provide the perfect backdrop for all the festivities, and many of the animals will take part in some Halloween fun, as well. The squash-splattering fun of the Elephant Pumpkin Smash presented by Sam’s Club is always a crowd favorite. Plus, visitors can enjoy extra chats and create Halloween-themed animal enrichment.
ZooBoo is free for Zoo members and included with regular admission. Discount tickets are available at area Donatos and Indiana Members Credit Union locations.
(Photos courtesy of Indianapolis Zoo)
# # #
About the Indianapolis Zoo
The Indianapolis Zoo empowers people and communities, both locally and globally, to advance animal conservation. Located in White River State Park downtown, the Indianapolis Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Alliance of Museums as a zoo, aquarium and botanical garden. Visit IndianapolisZoo.com
Leave a Reply