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Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott, AZ, opens its gates to kids with free admission for a week, encouraging families to connect with local wildlife and nature programs. Discover why this event is essential for community engagement and conservation education.
Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott, AZ, opens its gates to kids with free admission for a week, encouraging families to connect with local wildlife and nature programs. Discover why this event is essential for community engagement and conservation education.
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Operated by Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary · Prescott, Arizona
Located in the heart of Prescott, Arizona, Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary offers an immersive wildlife experience that invites families to connect with nature and community. This special Free Kids Week celebrates local support by granting children ages 3-12 complimentary admission for an entire week, turning the sanctuary into a vibrant playground of discovery and delight.
Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary is more than just a zoo; it serves as a vital rescue and rehabilitation center for native and exotic animals. The sanctuary’s 25-acre habitat is home to creatures like Arizona-specific species including the Mexican gray wolf, along with more globally endangered animals in naturalistic enclosures that encourage observation and learning.
During Free Kids Week, families can wander shaded trails surrounded by desert flora such as ocotillo and agave while spotting birds of prey and playful mammals. The sanctuary’s commitment to education highlights Arizona’s diverse ecosystem, inviting visitors to appreciate conservation efforts firsthand. This event provides a golden opportunity for young adventurers to get hands-on experience with wildlife programs, stimulating curiosity and fostering stewardship.
Beyond observing animals, the sanctuary offers picnic areas that support an easy-going day outdoors. Because the facility lies a short drive from Prescott’s vibrant downtown, visitors can combine cultural outings with nature immersion. Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary’s Free Kids Week stands out as a unique blend of recreation, education, and community gratitude—an accessible entry point for families to make lasting memories while supporting a cornerstone of regional wildlife preservation.
Whether you’re a Prescott local or passing through northern Arizona, this week-long celebration encourages families to engage with nature without the usual admission costs. It’s a meaningful invitation to nurture future conservationists with a day of adventure, learning, and fun within a setting dedicated to animal welfare and environmental respect.
easy.
Full day admission.
Suitable for all fitness levels, including families with young children
Children ages 3 to 12 receive free admission during this week-long event.
Yes, educational programs and occasional guided tours are offered; inquire ahead for scheduling.
Yes, guests may bring food and non-alcoholic beverages; picnic benches are available unless reserved.
The sanctuary has paths suitable for wheelchairs, though some terrain may be uneven; contact staff for details.
Pets are not permitted to protect the animals and maintain a safe environment.
Free Kids Week is held December 22 through December 26 each year.
Founded in 1985, Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary operates primarily as a rescue facility supporting local wildlife conservation.
The sanctuary emphasizes rehabilitation and education to promote sustainable coexistence with native species across northern Arizona.
Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott, Arizona is a community-focused zoological park dedicated to animal care, education, and conservation. The Sanctuary operates year-round and offers a wide range of experiences for families, students, photographers, and event planners. Visitors can attend seasonal events such as WildLights and Holiday Cheers, themed celebrations like Thanksgiving with the Lemurs and Santa with the Animals, and special admission days including Veterans Day and Dollar Day. Educational programs include ZooLittles preschool sessions, School Guided Tours, School Self-Tours for groups of 10 or more, animal presentations tailored to classroom topics, and outreach visits to schools and senior centers. Hands-on experiences range from Behind the Scenes Photo Tours and Private Behind the Scenes Tours to immersive Keeper for a Day and Junior Keeper for a Day opportunities; several programs require pre-registration to ensure animal welfare and safety. Venue rentals such as the Pronghorn Deck and Half Pence Pavilion provide outdoor event space with views of Willow Lake, zoo admission options, and support for catering or food trucks. The Sanctuary also offers private guided tours, private animal presentations, and community specials like Free Kids Week and Dollar Day. All programming emphasizes animal health, safety, and education, and staff-led activities are guided by experienced keepers. The Sanctuary’s calendar blends seasonal festivals, conservation-focused education, and community outreach to create accessible wildlife experiences for Prescott residents and visiting families. Some events, venue rentals, and program fees help support wildlife conservation efforts at the Sanctuary and fund animal care, enrichment, and educational resources.
Book with Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary