If you're looking to elevate your zoo trip, these animal encounter experiences are the perfect way to do just that!

A Nearly 100-Year-Old Gem!

Did you know that Mesker Park Zoo was nearly 100 years old?  The zoo was established in 1928 and today spans across 45 acres of land on Evansville's west side.  Our local zoo is truly a gem, they have hundreds of animals that are all housed in areas that are geographically themed to fit the places they are native too.  As Mesker Park Zoo says, when you visit the zoo you will embark on a journey across continents, all while never having to leave Evansville.

Getting Up Close to the Animals

Ever since my son was born, our family has been members of the zoo, and we often go and experience all they have to offer.  One of my son's favorite things to do when we are at the zoo is feeding the giraffes.

He looks forward to it every time we go.   With nicer weather finally here we will be spending more time at the zoo, and it had me wondering about other animal encounters the zoo offers.  It turns out they have a few opportunities to get up close to the animals!

Mesker Park Zoo Animal Experiences

If you're looking for ways to add more fun to your zoo trip, Mesker Park Zoo has a few animal encounters that you can add on that might just be right up your alley!

Feed a Penguin!

One of the most anticipated exhibits of Mesker Park Zoo in recent years is, no doubt, the Penguins of Patagonia.  There was so much dxcitement leading up to the unveiling of the exhibit, and welcoming the penguins to Evansville!  Now Mesker Park Zoo has a really cool opportunity for you to feed a penguin! 

The penguin feedings take place every day at 11 AM, 12 PM, 1 PM, and 2 PM as long as supplies last.

Join us for the delightful Penguin Feeding and get an up-close look at these charming birds. Meet the penguins and feed them their favorite snack as zookeepers share fascinating facts about their habits and habitats. This interactive experience is perfect for all ages, offering a chance to learn more about these playful creatures while enjoying their antics. Penguin Feeding times are scheduled several times a day, so be sure to check the times and plan your visit accordingly.

You can learn more about this experience, here. 

Get our free mobile app

Giraffe Feedings

Every day from 11 AM- 3 PM (while supplies last) Mesker Park Zoo offers Giraffe Feedings.

During this experience, you will actually get to hand-feed these sweet creatures.

One of the most popular zoo amenities and attractions is our Giraffe Feeding. For just a couple of tokens, get eye-to-eye with these gentle giants and offer them a tasty treat. This unique experience allows you to appreciate the sheer size and grace of giraffes while learning about their diets and behaviors. Giraffe Feeding sessions are available twice a day, making it easy to fit this unforgettable encounter into your visit.

The Giraffe Feedings are weather-dependent, so be sure to check with the zoo, or look for signage out front of the zoo that will indicate if there are any changes to that regular schedule.

The Budgie Walkabout, and Budgie Feeding

If you have never experienced the Budgie Walkabout at the zoo, I cannot recommend it enough! The last time we were at the zoo, my son begged me to go and feed the birds with him, and we had a blast.  It was so fun to have these adorable little birds land on you and eat the food you have for them.  At one point I had 4 budgies on one arm!

You can walk around the Budgie Walkabout anytime for free, but I highly recommend buying the feeding sticks to really get the birds excited to see you!

Step into a world of color at the Budgie Walkabout, where you can walk among a flock of friendly budgerigars native to Australia. These small, vibrant birds are eager to interact, and you can even feed them with special birdseed sticks available for purchase. The Budgie Walkabout is an immersive experience that delights visitors of all ages, offering countless photo opportunities and a deeper connection with nature.

This experience is available seasonally as temperatures need to remain above 50 degrees at night for the budgies.  However, once it's warm enough, the Budgie Walkabout is open from 10 AM to 4 PM daily.

More to Do at Mesker Park Zoo

Beyond these animal encounters there are plenty of other fun experiences at Mesker Park Zoo including the carousel, trams, and peddleboats.

You can check out all of the experiences here, and keep an eye on Mesker Park Zoo's website and social media to stay up to date with everything they have going on.