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Peoria Zoo

Write a Review Peoria, Illinois All ages Verified•Zoo & Wildlife

Last reviewed June 2026 by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards

About Peoria Zoo

Trek from Africa to Australia in one zoo, with giraffe feeding and playful spider monkeys.

This Peoria zoo organizes its animals into themed journeys, so a single visit spans several continents.

What you'll see and do - Wander the AFRICA! exhibit, Asian Trail, Australia Walk-About, Tropics Building, Conservation Center, and Contact Barn. - Meet recent arrivals like the young Mexican spider monkeys Azuca, Mantequilla, and Palomita. - Add a Giraffe Feeding experience and learn about the SAFE Program and SSP conservation initiatives.

Attraction Details

Facilities

  • Toilets
  • Gift Shop
  • Baby Changing
  • Food Options
  • Parking
  • Pushchair Friendly
  • Wheelchair Friendly

Events at Peoria Zoo

  • FriYay at Glen Oak Park

    May 29, 2026 - September 4, 2026

    Enjoy extended Friday evening hours at Peoria Zoo and Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum for more exploration and play.

  • Party for the Planet

    May 30, 2026

    Celebrate, learn, and explore at this fun-filled day with interactive talks and activities focused on clean energy, animal conservation, and plant conservation.

  • Wild Encounters on the Porch: Second Saturdays

    June 13, 2026 - September 2026 (Second Saturdays)

    Zoo educators bring amazing animals and nature lessons to the PlayHouse with up-close animal presentations, fun facts, and hands-on activities.

  • National Pollinator Week

    June 15, 2026 - June 21, 2026

    Celebrate the tiny heroes that keep our ecosystems thriving with special activities and interactive stations for all ages.

  • Fathers & Floats

    June 21, 2026

    Celebrate Father's Day with a root beer float and enjoy a day at the Zoo; fathers receive free admission with a paid child admission and a free root beer float.

  • Yoga in the Park

    June 27, 2026

    Connect with your inner self in nature with a revitalizing yoga session suitable for all levels at Luthy Botanical Garden.

  • Zootober

    October 17, 2025 - October 18, 2025 (plus other nights)

    The Peoria Zoo transforms after dark into a family-friendly Halloween fright fest with glowing lights, spooktastic characters, themed food, and live entertainment.

  • Zootober: Sensory Sunday

    October 19, 2025

    A calmer, more relaxed Zootober experience perfect for seniors and guests who prefer a lower-sensory environment, with animatronics and music on but projections off.

  • Luthy Lights

    December 5, 2025 - December 23, 2025

    Experience the wonder of winter nights at Luthy Botanical Garden with illuminated themed light displays, live holiday music, and a dazzling poinsettia display.

Plan Your Visit

Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Peoria Zoo.

Best time to visit

Arrive within the first hour of opening for the shortest queues and best photo light.

Who it's for

All ages

Getting there

Onsite or nearby parking available at 2320 N Prospect Rd.

Pro tip

Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.

Directions

Peoria Zoo

2320 N Prospect Rd, Peoria, IL 61603

Get DirectionsVisit Website

This attraction has been claimed and verified.

Last updated 6/23/2026

Peoria Zoo Reviews

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