Weddings at a zoo venue are definitely memorable and unique. How cool to exchange vows as an exotic bird flies overhead or a dolphin swims by. Imagine having a penguin encounter during the cocktail hour and dining feet from tigers and gorillas.
The larger zoos throughout the country offer many wedding venues to choose from. A smaller zoo may only have one option. Either way, there is nothing quite like getting married in that atmosphere. Perfect for the adventurous couple or animal lovers. Also perfect for those that want to have an unforgettable wedding.
San Francisco Zoo
How cool would it be to have a zebra casually stroll by while exchanging vows? This is possible while overlooking the Zoo’s development, African Savannah – just one of the many venue choices here.
Palm Beach Zoo
Located in West Palm Beach, Florida, this zoo has gorgeous water fountains that would be a dramatic backdrop for photo opportunities. Guests can meet Wilber the Sloth during the cocktail hour or other zoo residents.
San Diego Zoo and Safari Park
Couples can choose to have their ceremony overlooking Mombasa Lagoon filled with exotic plants and rare birds. One of the many reception choices is to dine literally feet from tigers at Sambutan Longhouse.
Zoo Atlanta
Imagine guests entranced by gorillas during the cocktail hour at the Zoo’s Ford African Rain Forest. This exhibit houses one of North America’s largest populations of critically endangered western lowland gorillas. Other venue options include the Delta Savanna Terrace and Flamingo Plaza
Memphis Zoo
During the day, the Northwest Passage is an enclosure with eagles, polar bears, and sea lions. At night, the atmosphere changes with lit pools and candles placed everywhere for a spectacular ceremony. Treat guests to a Polar Bear feeding. Another just as amazing venue is Teton Trek which is a two-story veranda that overlooks a 25′ waterfall.
Maryland Zoo
Couples can still have a ballroom-style event but in a zoo. The Mansion House has huge windows on all sides with a gorgeous wrap-around porch that overlooks Druid Hill Park. For the wow of the zoo, ceremonies can be held in the park or couples can host an Animal Ambassador at the cocktail hour. Perhaps a penguin or a snake! Just don’t scare Aunt Flo!
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Located in St. Paul, Minnesota, this zoo has many breathtaking garden ceremony sites and reception options. I’ll let the video speak for itself.
Indianapolis Zoo
One of my favorite venues is the St. Vincent Dolphin Gallery. This zoo boasts the world’s only underwater dolphin viewing dome. Another really cool option is the Oceans building. Guests can peruse through different galleries and the best part, they can interact with dog sharks. For real.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Say “I DO” while giraffes witness. Treat your guests to a giraffe feeding during the cocktail hour.
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
Located in Tacoma, Washington, this park has viewings of bears, bison, caribou and more. This is more of a natural setting with North American native animals. Venue options include the Hellyer Center which overlooks the free-roaming meadow and the Forest Cafe for an indoor, rustic option. Check out their interesting wedding packages.
Rosamund Gifford Zoo
Located in Syracuse, NY, this zoo is a pro at hosting events. There is a whole separate website for all the options. My favorite is the Central Courtyard which has the capacity for 300 guests for a ceremony and cocktail reception. This venue features a central gazebo that overlooks a pond has has walkways to enjoy the various gardens and wildlife. There are also options for typical outside and inside zoo atmospheres.
New York Zoos & Aquarium
Why not get married in the big city – the one and only New York City. Home of Bronx Zoo, Queens Zoo and the famous Central Park Zoo. All in the heart of the city. Whether you are a New Yorker or a visitor, there is nothing like experiencing the city that never sleeps (besides Vegas…lol). For destination weddings here – what a treat for your guests to explore all that NYC has to offer. Enough about the city……THE ZOOS!!!
The venue options are each unique and have their own sort of culture. Want to get married in the heart of Manhattan with the picturesque skyline in the background – Central Park Zoo is the answer. With a seating capacity of 700 and an open layout that allows your guests to mingle through the area with a cocktail (not to mention alongside the sea lion exhibit).
Photos below all from New York Zoos and Aquarium Events & Catering website.https://programs.wcs.org/zoo-events/
