Giraffe feeding.
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Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden

4.3
·3k reviews·Evansville, United States

A 45-acre zoo and botanic garden featuring over 700 animals in themed exhibits, known for its interactive experiences and stunning lantern festivals.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more active animals

CrowdLow
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Giraffe feeding.

Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more active animals

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 45-acre zoo and botanic garden featuring over 700 animals in themed exhibits, known for its interactive experiences and stunning lantern festivals.

4.3
(3k reviews)

"Amazing animals for such a small zoo, with interactive feeding and a magical lantern festival!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo has many hills, so good footwear is essential for exploring!

🐧 Penguin Feeding Tokens

Purchase tokens for a chance to feed the penguins – a highlight for many visitors!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Amazonia Exhibit

Amazonia Exhibit

Amazonia

Immerse yourself in a lush rainforest with free-flying birds and fascinating tapirs. A vibrant escape!

Reddit
Penguin Feeding

Penguin Feeding

Penguin Exhibit

Get up close and personal with adorable penguins! A small fee grants you the chance to feed them.

Reddit
Wild Summer Lights

Wild Summer Lights

Various locations

Experience the zoo transformed by stunning, colorful animal lanterns after dark. Magical!

TikTokInstagram+1
Giraffe Feeding

Giraffe Feeding

Giraffe Exhibit

A memorable opportunity to feed these gentle giants, but check for specific times.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Hills

Be prepared for inclines! Mesker Park Zoo is built on hills, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. Consider the tram service if mobility is a concern, though it comes with a fee. Reddit

Timing Your Visit for Animal Sightings

Some exhibits might appear empty or animals may be less active during peak heat. Check feeding times for interactive experiences like feeding penguins or giraffes. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more active animals
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Cooler temps, feeding times
Crowd
Medium
When
Wild Summer Lights evenings
Why
Spectacular lantern displays
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden’s new attraction is 😍 Read more at evansvilleliving.com. #Zoo #lights #tianyu #Chineselanterns #Evansville #lanterns #meskerparkzoo
evansvilleliving
66 likes • 1.9K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo has many hills, so good footwear is essential for exploring! Reddit

🐧 Penguin Feeding Tokens

Purchase tokens for a chance to feed the penguins – a highlight for many visitors! Reddit

✨ Don’t miss out on Wild Summer Lights at Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden in Evansville, Indiana! 🗓️ Remaining dates include September 26-28, October 1 (sensory night), and October 2-5 at 5:30 PM. 📍 Evansville, IN
evansville411
172 likes • 4.2K views
Mesker Park Zoo in Evansville Indiana opened their wild summer lights art installation and I felt so proud of our zoo as we walked through. It was a great showcase of the zoo, its walking paths, and family friendly atmosphere. We loved all the colorful animals and the food trucks were SOOOO GOOD. This def needs to be on your fall to do list! #evansville #evansvilleindiana #evv #eisforeveryone @...
postcardfromlauren
12 likes • 2.4K views

💡 Check Feeding Times

Maximize your visit by knowing when you can feed giraffes or penguins. Reddit

🍼 Lactation Room Available

A comfortable, air-conditioned nursing room is located near the rhino exhibit. Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting Evansville for two days-what is there to do?

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo has many hills, so good footwear is essential for exploring! Reddit

🐧 Penguin Feeding Tokens

Purchase tokens for a chance to feed the penguins – a highlight for many visitors! Reddit

💡 Check Feeding Times

Maximize your visit by knowing when you can feed giraffes or penguins. Reddit

🍼 Lactation Room Available

A comfortable, air-conditioned nursing room is located near the rhino exhibit. Reddit

✨ Wild Summer Lights Magic

Don't miss the enchanting lantern festival for a unique evening experience. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find Mesker Park Zoo to be a charming and enjoyable experience, especially given its size and price point. The animal exhibits are well-maintained, and interactive feeding opportunities are a highlight. However, some guests note that certain exhibits can appear empty, and the zoo's hilly terrain requires good stamina. The 'Wild Summer Lights' event is a standout attraction, transforming the zoo into a magical spectacle. TikTokInstagramReddit

"Amazing animals for such a small zoo. The Tapir area (Amazonia?) had lots of great birds flying around, the penguins were so friendly and all the animals looked healthy. They even had a tiger and a rhino. And a good price!"

Lynette Loew

"Park is beautifully decorated, and mostly very clean. Admission was $22 for 2 adults. There are many interesting animal exhibits, but a significant number of exhibits were empty. Tram service and power chair rentals are available for a fee. It is not completely handicap accessible, but with assistance a wheelchair can access nearly the whole park (i.e. most doors are not automatic). Park appeared very understaffed, but the animals appear well cared for. We fed an adorable penguin, cost was 5 dollars a fish. You'll need to give yourself several hours to see everything. Overall, quite enjoyable for the cost."

Anthony Childers

"We went to the Wild Summer Nights Lantern festival .It was amazing ! We were in awe of the work that it took to put this together .The color and detail on the animal lanterns was amazing .Such a beautiful way to end the summer .The music and food trucks were a great addition also .I had a caramel apple makeup for the first time .Wow ! Loved it !"

Traveling Crabapple

What People Like

Well-cared-for animals
Interactive feeding
Wild Summer Lights event

What People Dislike

Hilly terrain
Empty exhibits
Understaffed appearance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden is located in Evansville, Indiana. Driving is the most common way to reach the zoo, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may be limited, so checking local bus routes is recommended if you're not driving. Reddit

While specific routes can vary, it's advisable to check with the local Evansville public transit authority for the most up-to-date information on bus routes that service the zoo's vicinity. Reddit

The zoo offers parking facilities for visitors. If the main lot is full, there might be overflow parking available, which could be useful for RVs as well. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to park an RV at Mesker Park Zoo, especially if the overflow lot is not too full. It's a good idea to call ahead to confirm availability. Reddit

Yes, the zoo is very stroller and wagon friendly, making it easy to navigate with young children. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, but reviews suggest around $22 for two adults. It's always best to check the official Mesker Park Zoo website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts. Reddit

Mesker Park Zoo hosts special events like the 'Wild Summer Lights' lantern festival, which has been highly praised for its artistry and atmosphere. Keep an eye on their schedule for other seasonal attractions. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

While not explicitly stated in all sources, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended for popular attractions to save time and guarantee entry, especially during special events. Check their official website. TikTokInstagram

Operating hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's crucial to check the Mesker Park Zoo's official website for the most accurate daily hours before your visit. Instagram

While specific discount programs aren't detailed, it's worth inquiring about potential discounts for seniors, military, or group visits when booking or at the ticket counter. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The park is not entirely handicap accessible, but with assistance, a wheelchair can access nearly the whole park. Most doors are not automatic, so some help may be needed. Reddit

Visitors often rave about the Amazonia exhibit with its free-flying birds and tapirs, as well as the penguin and giraffe exhibits, especially if you catch a feeding time. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase tokens to feed adorable penguins, parakeets, and giraffes at specific times, offering a unique and memorable interaction. Reddit

This evening event transforms the zoo with incredible, colorful animal lanterns. It's a visually stunning experience with music and food trucks. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Plan to spend several hours exploring the zoo to see everything. Some visitors suggest it's a smaller zoo, but there's still plenty to discover. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The zoo offers food trucks, especially during events like 'Wild Summer Lights,' providing a variety of options. You might also find concessions within the park. InstagramReddit

While not explicitly stated, many zoos allow visitors to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. Check the zoo's policy on their website to be sure. Reddit

Food truck offerings can vary, but it's common for them to have diverse menus. It's best to check with the specific food vendors on the day of your visit for current options. Instagram

During special events like 'Wild Summer Lights,' unique treats like caramel apple makeup have been noted, adding a fun culinary element to the experience. Instagram

Yes, the zoo has shaded benches and picnic tables available, which are great spots to enjoy your own food or a snack purchased at the park. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Amazonia exhibit offers lush backdrops, while the animal enclosures themselves provide opportunities for close-ups. The 'Wild Summer Lights' event is particularly photogenic. TikTokInstagram

Photography is generally allowed for personal use at Mesker Park Zoo. However, always be mindful of any posted restrictions, especially regarding flash photography near sensitive animals. TikTokInstagram

A versatile zoom lens is recommended to capture animals at varying distances. For the 'Wild Summer Lights,' a camera capable of low-light photography would be beneficial. TikTokInstagram

Most zoos prohibit drone usage for the safety and well-being of the animals and visitors. It's highly unlikely drones are permitted. TikTokInstagram

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer lighting and more active animals. The 'Wild Summer Lights' event offers a unique nighttime photography opportunity. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mesker Park Zoo is a fantastic outing for families. It's very stroller and wagon friendly, making it easy to navigate with little ones. The interactive experiences, like feeding the parakeets or penguins, are huge hits with children. Reddit There's also a dedicated breastfeeding room in the rhino exhibit building, offering a comfortable space for parents. Reddit

While the zoo is built on hills, which might be a consideration for very young children or those with strollers, the overall experience is highly positive for families. The variety of animals and the engaging feeding opportunities ensure kids stay entertained. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds and ensure more active animal viewing. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Mesker Park Zoo offers good value for its admission price, with reviews noting it as a 'good price' for the experience. Reddit While there are optional add-ons like animal feeding tokens (around $5 per fish for penguins) and tram rides, the core zoo experience is enjoyable without them. Reddit

To save money, consider packing your own snacks and drinks, as picnic areas are available. Look out for potential discounts or family packages on their official website. Visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays can also contribute to a more relaxed and potentially less crowded experience. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Mesker Park Zoo offers diverse subjects, from the lush greenery of the Amazonia exhibit to the unique textures of animal fur and feathers. The Wild Summer Lights event is a prime opportunity for capturing stunning, colorful night photography. TikTokInstagram Bring a versatile zoom lens to capture animals at various distances. TikTokInstagram

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for animal photography. Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography, as it can disturb the animals. The zoo's hilly terrain might require some planning for stable shots, but the unique exhibits and animal encounters provide ample rewarding photo opportunities. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Animal Exhibits

Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden is home to over 700 animals across various themed exhibits. Visitors frequently highlight the Amazonia exhibit, a lush, tropical environment where birds fly freely and tapirs roam. This immersive experience is a standout for many. Other popular areas include the penguin enclosure, where interactive feeding opportunities are a hit, and the giraffe exhibit, offering a chance for close encounters. Reddit

While the zoo is praised for the health and care of its animals, some reviews mention that a significant number of exhibits can appear empty or that animals might be difficult to spot. This can be due to natural animal behavior, time of day, or the zoo's layout. It's recommended to check the zoo's map and potentially inquire about animal activity schedules upon arrival to maximize sightings. Reddit

The zoo's botanic garden aspect also adds to the visual appeal, with themed plantings complementing the animal habitats. This blend of flora and fauna creates a unique atmosphere, making it more than just a typical zoo visit. Reddit

The Enchantment of Wild Summer Lights

The Wild Summer Lights event at Mesker Park Zoo has garnered significant praise and is a must-see for many visitors. This special evening attraction transforms the zoo into a magical wonderland illuminated by intricate and colorful animal lanterns. The artistry and detail involved in creating these illuminated displays are consistently described as 'amazing' and 'awe-inspiring.' TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Beyond the visual spectacle of the lanterns, the event often includes live music and food trucks, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Visitors have enjoyed unique culinary treats, making it a well-rounded evening experience. The event is typically held on select dates in the fall, so checking the zoo's schedule is essential for planning a visit. Instagram

This event is a testament to the zoo's ability to innovate and offer unique attractions that draw crowds and create memorable experiences. It's a fantastic way to see the zoo in a completely different light, quite literally. TikTokInstagram+1

Accessibility and Amenities

Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden offers several amenities to enhance visitor comfort. For those needing assistance with mobility, tram service and power chair rentals are available for a fee. While the zoo is built on hills and not entirely handicap accessible, reviewers note that with some assistance, wheelchairs can navigate most of the park. Reddit

A particularly appreciated amenity is the lactation room located in the rhino exhibit building. This room is described as comfortable and well-equipped, featuring nursing-themed decor. However, some visitors have noted that the air conditioning in this area may not always be functional, which could be a consideration during warmer months. Alternatively, numerous shaded benches and picnic tables are available throughout the park for nursing or feeding. Reddit

Stroller and wagon accessibility is excellent, making it a family-friendly destination. The zoo also provides opportunities for add-on experiences, such as feeding tokens for animals, which can be purchased to enhance the visit. Reddit

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