Join us For Wild Nights!
Experience a unique overnight adventure at the San Francisco Zoo & Gardens! Our overnight program includes an after-hours evening tour, close animal encounters, and games and crafts all before bed! In the morning we will see the animals in a new light before the Zoo opens during our early-morning tour! Dinner, breakfast, and snacks will be provided, as well as a complimentary parking pass and admission to the Zoo the following day. Our program offers an educational, fun, and memorable experience for guests while also cultivating a greater respect and appreciation for animals and nature. Join us for a night of adventure, awe, and amazing animals!
Eligibility
We are welcoming organized groups with 30-50 participants to join. These could be scouts or school groups for example. If you are unsure if your group is eligible to attend, email at wildnights@sfzoo.org. We are currently only hosting youth groups and no adult only groups.
- Participants must be 5 years old or older.
- Participants must adhere to the Zoo’s chaperone policy of 1 chaperone for every 5 children.
Cost per person: $145
Program Logistics
Programing starts at 5:30 p.m. and ends at 10:00 a.m. the following day. We ask that there are no late arrivals and no early departures. Participants are welcome to stay in the Zoo during regular hours of operation after the event for no additional cost. Participants will receive a complimentary parking pass if needed.
Wild Nights Dates and Themes
- Wild Dino Nights
8/21, 8/22, 8/28, 8/29, 9/4, 9/5, 9/6, 9/11, 9/12 - Spooky Nights
10/9, 10/10, 10/23, 10/24, 11/13, 11/14 - Holiday Lights Nights
12/4, 12/5, 12/11, 12/12 - Dates for 2027
1/22, 1/23, 2/26, 4/16
Preparation Packet
For more information on how to prepare your little one for their Wild Night, click on the button below for our preparation pamphlet!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which animals will we see?
We will be visiting our crepuscular and nocturnal animals. Every event will vary, and it will be a mystery of who comes out until night-of! You might see wolves, bears, snow leopards, or lions. In the morning you will see more animals you missed the night before!
What’s on the menu for dinner and breakfast?
For dinner we will have pizza and veggies. For breakfast we will have options such as bagels with cream cheese, yogurt, and fruit. Snacks such as granola bars and tangerines will be available between meals, and a sweet treat will be offered after your night tour.
What if I have a dietary restriction or don’t like what’s offered for the meals?
If you have a concern about the meals, you may bring snacks or alternative food. If you are bringing food, please ensure that it is properly sealed to avoid attracting unwanted critters.
Where should I meet at 5:30 p.m.?
Enter into the Zoo’s main parking lot. Parking for the event is complimentary. You will see a sign for Wild Nights and a Zoo staff indicating to enter through the main entrance of the Zoo. Once through the gate, veer left and you will see Zoo staff with a table to sign in. Arrive by 5:30 p.m.
Are the lights out and wake up times mandatory?
To be respectful to all guests, we ask that by 10 p.m. you are in bed and ready to sleep. If you are falling asleep before 10 that is alright! In the morning we ask that you stay quiet in bed until 7 a.m. We have books you can read if you are an early riser.
Can I bring my electronic devices?
To maintain the intimacy of the evening, please refrain from excessive use of devices. That is, chaperones, bring your phone in case of emergencies, but please no playing games, watching videos, etc. while at our event.
What is your cancellation/refund policy?
- Rescheduling your event must be made 30 days prior to the event and is subject to availability.
- Cancellations must be made 30 days prior to the event. A 50% refund will be issued. The non-refundable 50% will be forfeited completely and is non-transferable.
- Cancellations made less than 30 days before the event will not be refunded.
- In the rare case that the San Francisco Zoo needs to cancel your program a full refund will be issued.
Have a question or want to register?
Email wildnights@sfzoo.org and we will be happy to help you!
Know someone who would enjoy an overnight at the Zoo?
Send them this page!