What are the opening hours?

Monday 9:30am - 4pm Tuesday 9:30am - 4pm Wednesday 9:30am - 4pm Thursday 9:30am - 4pm Friday 9:30am - 4pm Saturday 9:30am - 4pm Sunday 9:30am - 4pm

BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo

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Baker, LA
BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo

Connecting people to wildlife through engaging experiences & conservation efforts globally & locally. BREC was a finalist for the award in 1998.

BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo was a dream of the Recreation and Parks Commission as early as 1960. In 1965, the taxpayers passed a millage election that provided more than three-quarters of a million dollars to build the facility. At that time, a Zoo Director was employed to help design and implement the plans for the Zoo. Matching funds were obtained from the Bureau of Outdoor Recreation. Construction b

egan in 1966 and BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo first opened to the public on Easter Sunday, 1970. The residents of East Baton Rouge fully embraced the concept of the new Zoo, and a sense of ownership was instilled in the community, aided by the urging of television personality Buckskin Bill. The words of Buckskin Bill, "Baton Rouge needs a Zoo" at the end of his television program rallied the residents of East Baton Rouge Parish. Entertainment and Culture
The Zoo is a place where people connect with animals. Over the past forty years, the Zoo has grown to become the #1 year-round family attraction in Baton Rouge. With more than a quarter million guests each year, the Zoo attracts visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The Zoo is a favorite place for families and groups to discover the animal kingdom. Professionalism
Today, BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo is home to animals from around the world including tigers, black rhinos, flamingos, alligators and giraffes. The Baton Rouge Zoo was the first zoo in Louisiana to achieve the distinguished honor of being accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. As a leader in the zoo field, the Baton Rouge Zoo was accredited in 1977, four years before any other zoos in the state and eight years before such accreditation was mandatory for membership in this prestigious professional association. Conservation
The Zoo is very active in conservation programs and fully participates with other zoos around the world in nearly 30 international Species Survival Plans (SSP) for critically endangered species. Three of these SSP animals, the Guam Rail, Arabian Oryx, and Golden Lion Tamarin, have been successfully reintroduced into the wild and represent living proof of our long-term commitment of reintroduction to strengthen and supplement wild populations of endangered and threatened wildlife. Education and Research
The Zoo conducts active outreach and in-house educational programs. These programs are aimed at making the public aware of the problems confronting the wildlife of the world. Our educational programs reach thousands of children in school groups each year. Educational programming has expanded to include activities such as community outreach programs, reading programs, day camps, weekend classes, teacher workshops, on-site live animal and artifacts encounters and demonstrations. The demand for our educational programs increases every year. We also work very closely with the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine conducting research on several species. Behavioral studies are also conducted through other departments at Louisiana State University as well as other colleges throughout our region. A Facility of BREC
BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo is owned and operated by the Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge (BREC), a public government agency. BREC was created by an act of the Louisiana State Legislature in 1946 and is governed by a nine member appointed Commission. BREC is funded by Ad Valorem taxes, fees and charges and grants, gifts and donations. The BREC system is accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies. BREC has won the prestigious National Gold Medal Award for excellence in Recreation and Park Administration in 1975 and 1991. Community Support Organization
BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo is supported by the Friends of the Baton Rouge Zoo organization. The Friends' mission is to support the Zoo and its programs. The Friends work closely with BREC to raise funds for the capital projects, increase attendance through events, and to promote community involvement. The Friends of the Zoo has a Federal Internal Revenue Service 501(c)(3) status.

12/10/2024

🎉 Name That Jag! 🎉

Our jaguar cub needs your help to choose the perfect name!

🌟 The curators have narrowed it down to three inspiring options:

🖤 Seti – "Bright" (Egyptian origin)
❤️ Taiyari – "Our Heart" (Huichol Indigenous people of Mexico)
🌙 Soona – "Moon" (Otomi Indigenous people of Mexico)

Cast your vote now by commenting below and be part of this historic moment! The winning name will be revealed on January 1, 2025. 🐾

🗳️ Vote today and follow along for updates!

12/06/2024

We're helping build a brighter, healthier future for Baton Rouge! 🌟
Outdoor fun, family time, and spaces for everyone—that’s what we’re all about! 🙌 With IYP2, we’ve transformed our parks into hubs of connection and activity. As we prepare for IYP3, we’re committed to creating even more opportunities for Baton Rouge to thrive. Let’s keep dreaming big together! 🌳✨

12/06/2024

The holiday season is here, and so is the magic of Zoo Lights presented by Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health! 🎄✨ Join us every weekend in December at the Baton Rouge Zoo for a night of sparkle and wonder. Gather your friends and family—we can’t wait to make this season brighter with you! 🌟🎅

12/05/2024

🎄✨ Lights, Camera, Zoo Lights!

Our dazzling new commercial is live, showcasing the magic that awaits this year at Zoo Lights presented by Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health.

🌟 Don’t miss your chance to stroll through the glow and create unforgettable holiday memories!

🎁 Bonus: Bring a canned good for the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank and enjoy half-off admission. Let’s light up the season together! 🌟🍂"

12/04/2024

🌍 Happy World Wildlife Conservation Day! At BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo, we’re dedicated to protecting wildlife and their habitats daily. 🌱

Our newest initiative, the Monarch Butterflies Area, is a pollinator garden near the Atchafalaya, part of the SAFE program funded by the National Atchafalaya Heritage Area. This space supports monarchs and other vital pollinators as we continue planting and nurturing this habitat.

Through nearly 30 international Species Survival Plans (SSPs) and SAFE: Saving Animals From Extinction, we collaborate to protect endangered species through breeding, education, reintroduction, and conservation efforts tailored to our region’s needs. Together, we can create a healthier planet for all creatures. 💚🐾 "

12/04/2024

🌟 A huge thank you to our incredible sponsors for making Zoo Lights, presented by Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health, shine brighter than ever! ✨ Join us for this magical holiday tradition, running now through December 30th.

Special thanks to:
💡Neighbors Federal Credit Union
🎄Visit Baton Rouge
🚛 Gallagher
🚛 Southeast Community Health Systems
🚛 LUBA
📣 The Advocate (Baton Rouge, LA) , BRProud / WGMB / WVLA, 100.7 The Tiger WTGE, Eagle 98.1, Coca-Cola, and Baton Rouge Parents

Your support helps create a dazzling holiday experience for all! 🌟

🌟 A huge thank you to our incredible sponsors for making Zoo Lights, presented by Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health, shine brighter than ever! ✨ Join us for this magical holiday tradition, running now through December 30th.

Special thanks to:
💡Neighbors Federal Credit Union
🎄Visit Baton Rouge
🚛 Gallagher
🚛 Southeast Community Health Systems
🚛 LUBA
📣 The Advocate (Baton Rouge, LA), BRProud / WGMB / WVLA, 100.7 The Tiger WTGE, Eagle 98.1, Coca-Cola, and Baton Rouge Parents

Your support helps create a dazzling holiday experience for all! 🌟

12/04/2024

Happy International Cheetah Day! 🌍🐆 Today, we celebrate the fastest land animal on Earth and raise awareness for cheetah conservation. With fewer than 7,000 in the wild, every effort counts to protect these incredible animals. Stop by Baton Rouge Zoo to meet our resident cheetah sisters and learn more about how you can help keep these speedy cats around for generations to come! 🐾💛

12/03/2024

🌟 Did you know? BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo is now officially KultureCity Certified! 🌟 This means we’re proud to be part of a growing movement to create spaces where everyone feels welcome.

With sensory bags, quiet areas, and thoughtful accommodations, we’ve made the Zoo more inclusive for guests with sensory processing needs and their families. 🐾

Come see how we’re making meaningful connections possible for all! ❤️

12/02/2024

🎄✨ Thanksgiving may be over, but we're keeping the spirit of gratitude alive all December long! 🌟 BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo is thankful for our Zoo Lights sponsors, including Visit Baton Rouge , who help make the magic happen.

Get into the holiday spirit with Zoo Lights, presented by Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health! Stroll through a dazzling wonderland of twinkling lights, open nightly from November 29th to December 30th (closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day).

🎟️ Admission:
Adults/Teens: $5
Seniors: $4
Children (2-12): $3
Zoo Members: $3 per person

🕯️ Special Giving Opportunity: Bring a non-perishable food item for the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank and receive 50% off admission! Help us hit this year’s goal of 8,000 pounds of food—each can counts! 🥫❤️

Thank YOU for making this season merry and bright! 🌟

12/02/2024

✨🎄 Light up your holiday season with a magical evening at Zoo Lights, NOW through December 30! Stroll through sparkling displays, spot your favorite animals, and soak in the holiday cheer at BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo, presented by Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health. 🐊🎅

🎁 This year, we're giving back! Bring a non-perishable food item to receive 50% off admission, and support the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. 🐅🌟

Gather your Krewe and create unforgettable memories. Click the link for details and join us tonight! 🦛✨
brzoo.org/events-rentals/calendar/zoolights-2024

12/02/2024

Did you know prairie dogs have a vocabulary of over 100 words? 🐾 Their barks, yips, and chirps may sound simple, but these clever critters can describe visitors down to their height and even shirt color! 👕👀 Come chat with our prairie dogs at the Baton Rouge Zoo and see if you can decode their squeaks!

11/28/2024

Happy Thanksgiving from our zoo family to yours! 🦃🦁 We're thankful for our amazing animals, dedicated team, and wonderful community. Wishing you a day filled with gratitude, love, and a wild amount of joy! 🍂🧡

11/27/2024

🌟 We're thrilled to announce that BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo is now KultureCity Certified! 🌟

Did you know that 1 in 4 individuals live with a disability, and many of them experience sensory processing needs? This certification reflects our commitment to creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.

From sensory bags to designated quiet areas, we’ve taken steps to ensure our Zoo is a place where all families can connect with nature, enjoy meaningful experiences, and feel accepted. ❤️

Come visit us and immerse yourself in an inclusive adventure! 🐾

11/27/2024

🎄✨ Know Before You Go! ✨🎄

Zoo Lights, presented by Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health, is back at BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo! Kicking off this Friday, stroll through a dazzling wonderland of lights, festive fun, and holiday cheer.

11/25/2024

✨ Don’t miss the opening day of Zoo Lights this Friday, presented by our supporting sponsor, Neighbors Federal Credit Union! Be one of the first 200 visitors to hug the Coca-Cola Polar Bear and get a free Coca-Cola during the day, plus enjoy the festive Coca-Cola Santa Truck from 5:30 to 8 PM! 🎅🎄🌟

11/25/2024

Hey you! Feeling zoo-tastic? Come to BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo for a wild day with our awesome animals! It's always a good time! 🎉

Address

13350 Highway 19
Baker, LA
70714

Opening Hours

Monday	9:30am - 4pm
Tuesday	9:30am - 4pm
Wednesday	9:30am - 4pm
Thursday	9:30am - 4pm
Friday	9:30am - 4pm
Saturday	9:30am - 4pm
Sunday	9:30am - 4pm

Telephone

+12257753877

Website

http://www.brzoo.org/

Alerts

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Videos

🎄✨ Lights, Camera, Zoo Lights! Our dazzling new commercial is live, showcasing the magic that awaits this year at Zoo Lights presented by Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health. 🌟 Don’t miss your chance to stroll through the glow and create unforgettable holiday memories! 🎁 Bonus: Bring a canned good for the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank and enjoy half-off admission. Let’s light up the season together! 🌟🍂"

We're exactly ONE week away from our first night of Zoo Lights! We're putting on the finishing touches as we speak to bring you the must-see-experience of the season! 🎄#BRZOO #BREC #ZooLights

We are talking about Zoo Lights presented by Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health! Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank is joining us this afternoon!

✨ The holiday magic is back! ✨ Join us as BREC's BR Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights at Zoo Lights starting next month! 🎄🌟 We're proud to partner again with the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank this year to help make a difference. Our goal? Bigger and better than last year. We're hoping to collect 8,000 lbs of canned goods! 🥫💪 Bring a donation and receive 50% off admission—it's a win-win for the season of giving. 🎁❤️ For details, visit BRZOO.ORG or click the link in our bio! Let’s make this season bright together! 🌠

Take a peek behind the scenes at our Sapo Springs + Pygmy Hippo Exhibit! 🦛💧 This is our Life Support Systems (LSS) Room, where advanced water filtration keeps the exhibit clean and eco-friendly. These hidden upgrades are essential to a modern zoo and help us provide the best care for our animals every day. 🌿 #BatonRougeZoo #BehindTheScenes

🎨 Huge shoutout to Brandon Finnorn with Finnorn Illustrations, LLC for capturing the spirit of BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo through his amazing artwork! 🖌️ Be inspired and join us in celebrating art and wildlife—get your submissions in for our Art for Animals Festival, open now through December 9th. Don't miss your chance to showcase your talent! 🌟 Details here 👉 [https://brzoo.org/news/call-for-artists]

🦛✨ Enter the cozy nighthouse of our pygmy hippos and discover the hidden world that keeps them happy and healthy! Join Paige, our lead curator of carnivores and primates, as she takes you behind the scenes to showcase these exciting upgrades. These improvements are significant for the Zoo—they’re all about prioritizing the well-being of our animals every step of the way.🌿💚 #BatonRougeZoo #PygmyHippos #BehindTheScenes

Happy Halloween from your friends down at the BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo! 🦇🎃 #BRZoo #HappyHalloween

Boo at the Zoo

👻🎃 Boo at the Zoo presented by Hancock Whitney is BACK tomorrow for Weekend 2! 🎃👻 Get ready for a wild, spooky time with roaring, fun activities on both days! 🦖✨ Saturday, Oct 26th: 👑 Petite Princess: 12pm-2pm 🎨 Face Painting: 11am-3pm 🪄 Magic Show: 11am-2pm 🦕 The Dinosaur Experience: 10am-3pm 🐾 Ambassador Animal Show: 9:30am-5pm Sunday, Oct 27th: 👑 Petite Princess: 12pm-2pm 🎨 Face Painting: 12:15pm-2pm 🪄 Magic Show: 11am-2pm 🦕 The Dinosaur Experience: 10am-3pm 🐾 Ambassador Animal Show: 9:30am-5pm Don’t miss out on the costumes, critters, and magical moments! See you at #BooAtTheZoo! 👻💫 #SpookySeason #FamilyFun

Did you know Baton Rouge Zoo is home to various incredible reptiles? 🐍 On your next visit, explore the fascinating reptiles that call our zoo home and learn about the vital conservation efforts supporting these species. Even though we missed it yesterday, we still want to praise the incredible reptiles that call Baton Rouge Zoo home! #reptileawarenessday

🎉 Have you caught our latest TV spot? 🌟 It's airing now, and we can't wait to show you all the wild experiences waiting for you at the zoo! 🐾 From incredible animal encounters to fun events and leisurely strolls, there's so much to explore. Immerse yourself in the adventure and plan your next visit today! 📺 Tune in to your favorite local channels for a sneak peek of what’s in store! #BRZoo #ImmerseYourself #VisitTheZoo #ZooLife #WatchNow #BatonRougeZoo