ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo is shining bigger and brighter with nearly four million lights! There’s also a brand new Wildlife Lanterns, the enhanced s’mores station, interactive glow garden, the tallest floating tree in North America and a new 200 foot long light tunnel!
The stroll amongst the animals is always such a beautiful walk.
Glow Garden
This new addition is fun for all ages. Definitely an Instagram moment. The glowing swings and interactive flashing dance floor were a big hit with my six year olds. People of all ages were having fun playing in this section.
S’mores By The Fire
Located in Plaza de los Niños, you can purchase s’mores, cookies or hot chocolate and hang out by the fire pit to stay warm.
Photo With Santa
You can visit Santa until Christmas Eve. It is recommended to book in advance online, which you can do here.
Wildlife Lantern Safari
These have been at the zoo a few years now, and I still love getting up close to see the detail. They are truly stunning!
Endangered Species Illuminated Paintings
These beautiful larger than life paintings were located next to the giant Christmas tree. They were beautiful but not featured as well as they could be.
Light Tunnel
This addition was my own personal favorite. We walked through it numerous times. Try it with the SRP glassed they hand you when you walk in!
Savanah Cafe
We got hungry during our visit and decided to eat at the cafe. We ordered and it took 30 minutes to to get a hot dog. But daughter said the hot dog was good and my son said the fries were good.
Souvineers
There is a wide variety of light up souvenirs all around the zoo for sale. Be prepared to pay. I glanced at the price on a small light and it was $18.
We had a great time at ZooLights this year. Definitely reminded me that we need to go visit the zoo animals during the day. We had not been to the zoo in almost 3 years. We went on a week night, got there slightly after opening at 5:30 and left a little after 8:00. We managed to walk the whole zoo and see a little bit of everything.
A few tips for visiting:
- Make sure you dress warm enough.
- I would eat before or after and try to avoid waiting in the line at the café or snack stands.
- Check the map ahead of time to make sure you make it to your destination if you have young kids with a limited amount of time.
November 22, 2023 – January 14, 2023
Tickets Prices Online $30, $25 for member At The Gate $35, $30 for members, Children 2 and under free
Camel Rides and Santa Visits are additional.
455 North Galvin Parkway Phoenix, AZ 85008
More great holiday events can be found on our events calendar!
Author
Kim is a chef, dishwasher, dry cleaner, housekeeper, landscaper, snack fetcher, photographer and personal assistant to toddler twins. Curently homeschooling her three year olds and loving teaching preschool. She loves exploring everything with her kids and photographing every minute of it. Follow her on Instagram @phoenixwithtwins.