Summer at Hogle Zoo
Your guide to seasonal events and can't miss experiences
Summer in Salt Lake City means longer days, warmer weather, and the perfect excuse to visit Utah’s Hogle Zoo. Whether you’re bringing the kids, entertaining out-of-town guests, or just looking for a fun weekend activity, there’s more to do, more to see, and more to love at the zoo this season.
Start your day wild
There is nothing like a morning at the zoo. When gates open at 9 AM, the air is fresh, the pathways are peaceful, and the animals are on the move. Early hours are prime time to see natural behaviors, from giraffes browsing in the African Savanna to gorillas foraging and exploring in Great Apes.
Stay Cool This Summer
Summer days at the zoo can get warm, but we have the tips to keep you cool.
Cool off with:
- Refreshing splash pads near Rocky Shores
- Icy treats at Cat Wok Cafe and The Beastro
- Shady pathways and misters throughout the zoo
- Air-conditioned comfort in the Small Animal Building, Wild Utah, and the Gift Shop
- Ice-cold drinks are available at stands across the zoo
Wondering how animals beat the heat?
Just like you, our animals stay cool with summer care routines tailored to their needs. Peek behind the scenes to learn how we beat the heat together.
Wild Summer Events
August 1, 10 AM – 2 PM
Celebrate more than 90 years of wildlife, wonder, and community with special activities throughout the day. Enjoy live entertainment, animal enrichment spotlights, and insightful chats with keepers. Join us as we honor our history and look ahead to a wild future!
August 6, 6:30 – 9:30 PM
21+ Ticketed Event
Sip themed cocktails and local brews while enjoying a Western-style evening stroll through select habitats.
September 4, 5 – 9:30 PM
Wildlife Ball: Lions, Tigers & Bears
Celebrate wildlife and support conservation at Hogle Zoo’s premier fundraising gala. This elegant evening features gourmet dining, signature drinks, live music, and exclusive animal experiences, including a giraffe feeding and natural lion feed demonstration.
Dress to impress with cocktail attire or embrace the theme with a touch of Wizard of Oz chic. Early bird pricing available until August 4.
Select mornings and evenings
Member Exclusive Sunrise & Sunset Safaris
Experience the zoo in a whole new light. Sunrise Safaris offer early morning access from 8 – 9 AM, perfect for seeing animals during their active routines. Sunset Safaris invite members to explore during the calm evening hours, 6 – 9 PM, as animals wind down for the day.
Member Safaris feature keeper talks, enrichment demonstrations, and special discounts.
Daily Activities
Check out what’s going on in the Wildlife Theater
11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM.
Catch high-energy conservation fun all week long at Wildlife Theater. From Wednesday to Monday, watch trained dogs demonstrate real-life conservation skills like scent detection and wildlife tracking in Canine Champions for Conservation.
On Tuesdays, the spotlight shifts to Trivia Tuesday, a family-friendly game show where guests test their wildlife knowledge for a chance to win zoo swag and tickets to future events. Both programs are included with general admission.
Get hands-on with conservation in Wild Utah
Get creative, get curious, and get hands-on in the heart of Wild Utah, home to Hogle Zoo’s Maker Space, an interactive hub where guests of all ages can dive into conservation through craft, design, and play.
Each project is guided by zoo educators and inspired by the animals and habitats we protect. Families are encouraged to work together, explore new materials (included with admission), and discover how everyday actions can support a healthier planet.
Feed a giraffe ($5)
Daily through Labor Day
10 AM & 2 PM
Head to Twiga Terrace for the opportunity to get up close and personal with the tallest residents of Hogle Zoo. By experiencing the giraffe feed, you are helping Hogle Zoo support our conservation goals, including contributions to the Giraffe Conservation Fund.
Utah's Hogle Zoo
