Zoo Snooze-now available during summer!
When the sun goes down, the fun starts up at the Santa Barbara Zoo!

Take a step away from the ordinary and jump into a wild adventure at the Santa Barbara Zoo! Zoo Snoozes are available year-round: on weekends during the school year, and any day of the week once school lets out. Most Zoo Snooze dates book three months in advance, so please call early to reserve your date!

What is a Zoo Snooze?
Your adventure starts in the evening when you set up camp on a lawn next to the lion exhibit or in our heated, indoor classroom. Then our instructors will lead your group through a series of exciting, hands-on educational activities including up-close animal encounters, behind-the-scenes explorations, and an evening snack. In the morning, your group will enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast, another up-close animal encounter with one of our zookeepers, and an exclusive enrichment experience with one of our Zoo animals. At the conclusion of our program, you are welcome to explore the Zoo with your group on your own to see all of your favorite animals in the light of day!

Who can book a Zoo Snooze?
Zoo Snoozes are designed for children 5-11 with adult chaperones. We also offer a modified curriculum that is more suitable for students 12-18. Snoozes are very popular with Girl Scout and Cub Scout troops, but they are also great for birthday parties, classes, or even groups of friends! Zoo Snoozes are not available for groups of adults (over 18) or for children under 5.

How many people can a Zoo Snooze accomodate?
We require a minimum of 15 paid participants to book a Zoo Snooze. Zoo Snoozes sleeping in the education classroom can accommodate a maximum of 25 participants, while groups sleeping outdoors can be as large as 80 participants. If you are a family group that would like to participate in a Zoo Snooze, watch for announcements about our Family Zoo Snoozes, typically occurring in October and March. We would be happy to see you then!

How much does a Zoo Snooze cost?
Zoo Snoozes cost $60 per participant. Snoozes booked in the colder months (October through February) receive a discounted rate of $50 per participant. In addition, all Zoo Snoozes receive one free chaperone for every five paid children who will be attending.

How do I book a Zoo Snooze?

To book a Zoo Snooze, or for more information about the program, please contact the School and Community Programs Coordinator at (805) 962-5339, ext. 150 or by email.

Here's what they're saying about Zoo Snooze:
"The instructors related so well with the kids."
"The snooze held everyone's interest, kids and adults."
"It exceeded our every expectation."