About
Indianapolis Zoo Youth and Family Programs take place within the broader Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens experience, where families can explore a glass-enclosed conservatory, outdoor design gardens, a water garden, numerous artistic fountains and features, and 1.5 miles of winding paths and walkways. Participants can see more than 16,000 plants, including native and exotic species, many of which are rare or historic in value, and visit spaces such as the DeHaan Tiergarten, Hilbert Conservatory, and Family Nature Center. At the Family Nature Center, visitors can learn about Indiana wildlife and habitats.
• Schedule: General Zoo hours are 9am–4pm Monday–Thursday and 9am–5pm Friday–Sunday.
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. Its stated 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). White River Gardens formally opened to the public on June 13, 1999, and the Indianapolis Zoo opened at its current White River State Park location in 1988. The Indianapolis Zoo states a commitment to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive culture for visitors, employees, suppliers, and community partners, and it provides donations to Indiana nonprofit organizations sponsoring fundraising activities, with priority given to groups that support Indiana families and animal conservation.
Last updated May 14, 2026.
• Schedule: General Zoo hours are 9am–4pm Monday–Thursday and 9am–5pm Friday–Sunday.
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. Its stated 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). White River Gardens formally opened to the public on June 13, 1999, and the Indianapolis Zoo opened at its current White River State Park location in 1988. The Indianapolis Zoo states a commitment to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive culture for visitors, employees, suppliers, and community partners, and it provides donations to Indiana nonprofit organizations sponsoring fundraising activities, with priority given to groups that support Indiana families and animal conservation.
Last updated May 14, 2026.
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