About
Indianapolis Zoo Youth and Family Programs take place within the broader Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens experience, where families can explore garden spaces, plant collections, and nature-focused exhibits together. Participants can see more than 16,000 plants, including native and exotic species, many of which are rare or historic in value, and can visit areas that highlight Indiana wildlife and habitats.
• Schedule: General Zoo and Gardens hours are 9am–4pm Monday–Thursday and 9am–5pm Friday–Sunday
The Indianapolis Zoo Youth and Family Programs are part of an organization whose mission is: “We protect nature and inspire people to care for our world.” The Zoo is accredited as a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden, is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Alliance of Museums, and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The Indianapolis Zoo operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that does not receive tax support and is governed by a board of trustees. White River Gardens, which is included as part of the Indianapolis Zoo, formally opened to the public on June 13, 1999, and presents traditional garden elements in a contemporary way. Within White River Gardens, families can explore the DeHaan Tiergarten for gardening ideas, plant information, and design inspiration, the Hilbert Conservatory as a year-round tropical oasis, and the Family Nature Center to learn about Indiana wildlife and habitats. The Indianapolis Zoo states a commitment to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive culture for visitors, employees, suppliers, and community partners, and provides donations to Indiana nonprofit organizations sponsoring fundraising activities, with priority given to groups that support Indiana families and animal conservation.
Last updated May 13, 2026.
• Schedule: General Zoo and Gardens hours are 9am–4pm Monday–Thursday and 9am–5pm Friday–Sunday
The Indianapolis Zoo Youth and Family Programs are part of an organization whose mission is: “We protect nature and inspire people to care for our world.” The Zoo is accredited as a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden, is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Alliance of Museums, and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The Indianapolis Zoo operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that does not receive tax support and is governed by a board of trustees. White River Gardens, which is included as part of the Indianapolis Zoo, formally opened to the public on June 13, 1999, and presents traditional garden elements in a contemporary way. Within White River Gardens, families can explore the DeHaan Tiergarten for gardening ideas, plant information, and design inspiration, the Hilbert Conservatory as a year-round tropical oasis, and the Family Nature Center to learn about Indiana wildlife and habitats. The Indianapolis Zoo states a commitment to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive culture for visitors, employees, suppliers, and community partners, and provides donations to Indiana nonprofit organizations sponsoring fundraising activities, with priority given to groups that support Indiana families and animal conservation.
Last updated May 13, 2026.
Is this your business? There is no cost, but you will be asked to sign up or log in.