Is winter a good time to go to the zoo?

When looking for fun activities do do in the winter, the zoo might not be the first place that comes to mind. But in reality, some of the animals that you visit in the zoo, are more active in the winter than any other time of year.



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For many, the zoo is a quieter and more peaceful place in winter. You can take your time as you explore zoo spaces from Pritzker Family Children's Zoo to Nature Boardwalk. Many guests may be gone but the animals remain, making the zoo a great place to spend an otherwise dreary time of year.

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While some animals may not be viewable to guests during the winter months, and some are visible year-round, every animal has an indoor facility and also has the option to enjoy the outdoors as well (with the exception of our cold-blooded friends who prefer the indoors).

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A lot of Zoo animals choose to go outside in the winter. Dens, heated rocks and other exhibit features help them stay comfortable, even in the rain and snow. The Zoo also has heated, indoor exhibits that keep animals (and visitors) warm on cold winter days.

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Diurnal animals are most active during the daytime. Nocturnal animals are most active at night. There is also a third, less well-known category: crepuscular animals. Crepuscular animals are most active at dusk and dawn.

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In extreme conditions, animals may not be given access to the outdoors. Those that are allowed outside for short periods of time will be monitored and have access to shelter and/or heating elements. Safety is the top priority, but playing in the snow can also be lots of fun, as seen in these photos from over the years.

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Usually, the elephants choose to remain outdoors. The indoor area is equipped with large sand beds that provide a soft place for the elephants to sleep when they are inside. Additionally, large industrial freezer flaps hang over the elephants' door to the outside.

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In their bedrooms, holding areas, we have kinda beds of hay for them to sleep in. More than 500 animals get escorted inside every night. They get their food, the main part of their diet in there, said Fisher. Animals take more naps and generally do sleep longer than humans.

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Some researchers have noted that pacing and similar stereotypies may be a result of permanent aberrations in the brain “caused by abnormalities in captive environments.” Others describe it as a direct and ongoing reaction to the captive environment.

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In fact, many animals are more active in colder months than hotter months, providing a unique opportunity for guests to see more active animals than they would in the hotter months. One way zoos can plan for the winter months is to highlight their winter month animals.

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10 Tips for an Awesome Zoo Trip
  1. Go during the week. Let's face it – you aren't there to see the people. ...
  2. Get there early. Zoos are big with lots of things to take in so get there early! ...
  3. Make a plan. Now I love a list. ...
  4. Use the lockers. ...
  5. Bring two pairs of shoes. ...
  6. Pack your own food. ...
  7. Get Photo Phunny. ...
  8. Find the Interactive Areas.


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Well, that depends on the animal. Many of the animals that can be seen during the day are diurnal, or active during the day. But many species that reside at the Zoo are nocturnal, or active at night. As care teams leave for the day, some animals who have been sleeping during the day are just waking up.

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