Are the tours suitable for all ages?

Yes, the guided tours are designed to be accessible and engaging for students of all ages and adult visitors.

How large are the groups on the tour?

Large groups are divided into smaller teams to ensure personalized attention and a quality learning experience.

Is the sanctuary wheelchair accessible?

Most areas of the sanctuary are accessible, but we recommend contacting the sanctuary directly for specific accessibility questions.

Can custom educational topics be requested for the tour?

Yes, tours can be tailored to align with classroom subjects; contact education@heritageparkzoo.org for arrangements.

What animals can we expect to see on the tour?

The tour includes local and exotic species such as mountain lions, black bears, and Mexican gray wolves.

What is the cancellation policy for the tours?

Cancellations made more than 7 days in advance receive a full refund; less than 7 days incur a 25% cancellation fee.

Wildlife Tours at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott, Arizona, offers an immersive opportunity for students and nature enthusiasts to gain a firsthand understanding of wildlife through its School Guided Tour with Admission. This docent-led experience spans roughly an hour, making it a perfect complement to classroom studies focused on biology, ecology, and animal science. Designed specifically to accommodate large groups, the tour divides visitors into smaller teams, allowing personalized interaction and a deeper dive into the behaviors, habitats, and conservation needs of the animals housed here.

Situated on 49 acres of rugged Arizona terrain, the sanctuary showcases native and exotic species within thoughtfully designed habitats that reflect natural ecosystems rather than traditional zoo cages. Rocky outcrops, desert flora, and shaded groves create a vivid backdrop to observe animals such as mountain lions, black bears, and Mexican gray wolves in environments that simulate their wild homes. This realism enhances learning, offering visitors insights into how species adapt to arid climates and what challenges they face in the wild.

The sanctuary’s roots trace back to 1974, when it was founded to protect and rehabilitate animals native to the southwestern United States. Over time, it has grown into a pivotal educational resource in the Prescott area, emphasizing sustainability and wildlife preservation. Its educational programs facilitate hands-on engagement and scientific inquiry, making it an invaluable partner for schools and youth organizations.

Beyond animal encounters, the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary anchors Prescott’s commitment to conservation education. Its natural setting, coupled with expert guides, positions it as a standout destination for families and students wanting an experience that blends outdoor adventure with environmental stewardship. Whether you’re a local or visiting, this sanctuary provides an inspiring way to connect with Arizona’s fauna while supporting ongoing protection efforts.

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.