How large is the group for the Private Animal Presentation?

Groups are limited to a maximum of nine guests to keep the experience intimate and personal.

Can children participate in the presentation?

Yes, this presentation welcomes all ages and is designed to be engaging for children as well as adults.

Are all animals safe to touch?

Visitor interaction is carefully supervised and limited to animals suited for gentle handling, following strict safety protocols.

Is the presentation indoors or outdoors?

The presentation includes both indoor and sheltered outdoor components, depending on the animals featured.

Can we customize which animals are presented?

While the zoo offers some variety, there’s a surprise element with animals selected by the staff at the time of your visit.

What should I wear for the presentation?

Comfortable, seasonally appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended to enjoy the full experience.

Animal Encounters at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary

Located in the heart of Prescott, Arizona, Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary offers an engaging and hands-on experience with the region’s diverse animal life through their Private Animal Presentation. This unique 30-minute session invites visitors to connect closely with a variety of creatures—ranging from reptiles and arachnids to small and large mammals—showcasing both local Arizona natives and specially selected zoo animals. It’s a dynamic opportunity for groups of up to nine people to learn about wildlife conservation and animal behaviors in an intimate setting.

Prescott’s high desert environment, with its mix of ponderosa pine forests and arid landscapes, provides an ideal backdrop for the sanctuary’s focus on native species. Expect to encounter creatures adapted to these conditions, such as snakes, tarantulas, and foxes, gaining insight into how they survive and thrive in the rugged terrain.

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary stands apart from traditional zoos by emphasizing education and conservation through direct engagement. This presentation is more than a show—it's a deliberate invitation to observe and touch nature’s adaptations up close, whether that’s a mini-horse’s soft coat or the scaled texture of a gila monster (one of Arizona’s native reptiles). The staff’s deep knowledge enriches each encounter, making the sanctuary a standout destination for families, educators, and wildlife enthusiasts in Northern Arizona.

The sanctuary also highlights the importance of local ecosystems and works to raise awareness about the challenges facing native wildlife. Coupling outdoor adventure with conservation education, Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary plays a vital role in preserving the region’s natural heritage while connecting visitors to Arizona’s wild heart in a meaningful, memorable way.

About Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary

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.