- A minimum of 3 weeks notice is required.
- Please call the Education Department at (402)738-2092 to book your party.
What You Need To Know
- Birthday child must be turning a minimum of 4 years old.
- Birthday parties can be scheduled up to 6 months in advance.
- A non-refundable deposit is required one week after selection of party date to secure the reservation.
- Full payment is due no later than 3 weeks before the party date.
- The MAXIMUM number of people for a birthday party is 25 (children& adults).
Birthday Packages
Go Wild! - Your guests are sure to have a roaring good time and you don't have to worry about a thing! We take care of all your basic party needs. Cost: $135 for 12 people ($11.25 for each additional child or adult).
Close Encounters! - Guests are sure to enjoy an up close encounter with one of Omaha Zoo's own residents! We provide all of your basic party needs plus an animal visit! Cost: $255 for 12 people ($21.25 for each additional child or adult)
Times
10:00 - 11:30 a.m. (Monday - Saturday only)
1:00 - 2:30 p.m. (Monday - Sunday)
3:00 - 4:30 p.m. (Monday - Sunday)
Party Features
- Invitations
- 1 1/2 hour room rental
- Dedicated party host
- Fun craft and animal tattoos (washable)
- Guided Tour
- Bio-fact information (animal facts with furs)*
- Birthday cake, ice cream and orange drink
- T-shirt for the Birthday Child
- Group photo
- Plus...members of the private party receive full admission to Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo
*Only offered with the Go Wild! birthday package
Party Add-ons
Party Favor Bags - $4 each (includes one train ticket and age appropriate items such as stamps, stickers and pencils).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a party for two children together?
We do allow combined parties for two children. Please note that all of the same rules and features apply. Our party packages include a t-shirt for the birthday child. An additional t-shirt may be purchased for the other birthday child for $5.
I am interested in the Close Encounters birthday package that includes an animal visit. What kind of animal will your bring or can I pick the animal?
The health and well being of the animals at our Zoo is extremely important. Therefore, the Animal Ambassadors that we use for these types of programs are on a schedule so that they do not become overused and stressed. Because of this, guests are not allowed to choose the animal and we can never guarantee that a specific animal will come to your party.
My Child is not 4 or older; can we still have a birthday party at the Zoo?
The Education Birthday Program is geared toward children ages 4 and up. unfortunately we can not accommodate parties for younger children.
Can we rent the room for an extended length of time?
No, the Zoo schedules parties back to back with a brief time in between to prepare for the next party.
What is the Zoo's cancellation policy?
A written cancellation notice must be received by the Zoo at least three weeks prior to the date of the scheduled event. The remainder minus a $90.00 administration fee will be refunded. If notice is not received within this time, the entire fee will not be refunded. If you would like to reschedule, you must reschedule in one month to retain use of the rental fee.
What if it rains or snows the day of my party?
The Zoo rarely closes due to inclement weather. If the Zoo is open the party will run as scheduled. There are no refunds or rescheduling due to inclement weather. If the weather is less than desirable, the activities will be held indoors.
Some of my guests have Zoo memberships. Do I still have to pay extra for them if I go over the guest limit?
Birthday parties include Zoo admission and more. The fee covers the cost of the program. Parents and sibblings of your guests (member or non-member) are more than welcome to enjoy the Zoo during the party free of charge; however, everyone that is present for the duration of the party is considered a guest.
When is my final balance and contract due?
The minimum base payment (Go Wild-$135; Close Encounters-$255) and contract are due no later than 3 weeks prior to the date of the party to keep your reservation. If the balance is not paid in full 3 weeks prior to the party, the party will be cancelled.
When will I receive the invitations? What if I need more?
Invitations will be mailed out once we receive the minimum base payment for the party. The base payment is due no later than 3 weeks prior to the scheduled date. We provide 12 invites; however, extras may be purchased for $1 each.
When is my guest count due?
If the total number of people at your party will exceed 15 (including the birthday child, any adults and children), please notify us no later than 1 week prior to your party.
Can I choose the cake?
All of our cakes come from Olsen's Bakery. They are a 1/4 sheet in size (1/2 sheet wil be ordered for larger parties). The are decorated with an animal drawn with frosting and say, "Happy Birthday ____________".
What should I expect during the party?
You and your guests may get into the birthday facility 10 minutes prior to your party. A birthday host will begin by giving each of the children a washable animal tattoo and a craft to work on. Party guests will then go on a guided tour (during the summer the tour is outdoors, weather permitting). After the tour, guests are invited to learn about animal bio-facts and get a group photo. Next, guests will enjoy cake, ice cream and open presents.
Can we store food or presents?
The Zoo does not provide any storage areas. We suggest bringing a wagon to help you cart items between the Zoo and your vehicle.
Can I bring my own decorations?
Yes; however, we do not allow balloons, straws, confetti or pinatas for the safety of the animals. Also, we ask that any decorations be hung with removable tape only.
Can I bring food to the party?
Food may be brought to the party; however, please be aware that this may cut into the time allowed for other party activities. If you do choose to bring food, please notify the Education Department at least one week before the party. In addition, you are welcome to take your guests to any of the concessions stands or the Tree Tops Restaurant to eat before or after the party.
If you have any other questions, please contact the Education Department at (402) 738-2092 or e-mail classes@omahazoo.com.