Show All Answers

1. Plan Your Visit FAQ

• What is the cost of admission? 
  • The Hutchinson Zoo is donation based, we suggest $5 per family or $2 per person, but you are welcome whether you donate or not. Your donation will help to fund Zoo improvements and future growth.
• What are the Zoo hours? 
  • The Zoo is open 10:00 AM to 4:45 PM daily; we are closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. 
  • The Gift Shop is open during regular zoo hours Monday through Saturday; Sunday it is open from 1:00 PM to 4:45 PM.
• Is there a concession stand and can I bring outside food? 
  • The Gift Shop has drinks and pre-packaged snacks available for purchase. 
  • Outside food and beverages are permitted, but please make sure to clean up your trash. 
• How long does it take to tour the zoo? 
  • On average, it takes about an hour to walk through the zoo. 
    • If you want a longer visit, plan to ride the train or play in one of our two playgrounds!
    • With our recent Nature Play Expansion we have added an additional space to explore. 
• When does the train run? 
  • During the school year the train runs primarily on weekends. 
  • During the summer the train runs daily. 
  • Call ahead to check the schedule if you are planning to ride the train; all train rides are weather permitting. 
• Are pets allowed in the Zoo?
  • We allow licensed and trained service animals, please check in with staff when you arrive. 
  • No pets or companion animals are allowed on Zoo grounds. 

2. Membership FAQ

• Why should I buy a membership? 
  • You will receive many benefits as a member of your Hometown Hutchinson Zoo. 
  • Benefits include:
    • Reciprocal admission to over 100 zoos and aquariums
    • Free or discounted event tickets
    • A 20% discount on Gift Shop merchandise
    • Quarterly Membership eNews
    • Discounts on Educational Programs
    • Discounts on birthday parties and rentals
  • Funds from your membership are used by the Hutchinson Friends of the Zoo to support future Zoo growth and expansion.
• How many people can I list on my family membership card? 
  • A family membership includes two named adults and any children under 18 living in same household.  
• How do I renew my membership? 
  • When your membership is about to expire, you will receive a renewal letter in the mail. You can return the form along with a check in the mail, come into the gift shop, or pay online to renew your membership. 

3. Volunteer Opportunities FAQ

• How old do you have to be to volunteer at the zoo? 
  • You must be at least 16 years old to volunteer without an adult. 
  • Children ages 12-15 may volunteer with a responsible adult (over the age of 18). 
• Can I get court-ordered community service hours at the zoo? 
  • No. All volunteers must pass a criminal background check to be considered. 
• I need community service hours for school or work, what can I do? 
  • The Zoo is happy to consider internships and short-term volunteers on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Nicole to see if we can work together.
  • If you have a group in need of hours, contact Nicole to schedule a group service project.