When can I make a reservation
Reservations are available Saturdays and Sundays, year-round. There are three time slots available per day; 9:30–11:00am, 12:00pm–1:30pm, or 2:30–4:00pm.
Is admission to the Zoo included?
No, admission to the Zoo is not included, but may be purchased at a reduced group rate.
Can I bring my own food/catering?
Cupcakes and cakes are the only outside food permitted.
How many people are allowed?
Each private event space has its own capacity: Aquarium Room can hold 30 guests, Sunroom can hold 50 guests, and the Penguin Classroom located in Helzburg Penguin Plaza can hold 24 guests.
What happens in the event of inclement weather?
Zoo programs are rain or shine. However, programs may be cancelled due to inclement weather, in which case the Zoo will notify the party parents of the cancellation prior to the program. Party parents must notify all other guests. If this happens, a full refund will be issued or you will have the ability to reschedule. Unless the Kansas City Zoo cancels a prgram due to weather, there will be no refunds given.
Can I cancel a reservation?
To cancel a reservation, you must contact the Kansas City Education Department at least two weeks prior to the scheduled party to receive a refund minus the $100 non-refundable, nontransferable deposit. Cancellations made less than two weeks in advance are not eligible for a refund.
What is the refund policy?
Refund requests must be made at least two weeks prior to the scheduled party. The $100 deposit in not eligible for a refund.
Can I reschedule a reservation?
Date changes will incur a $30 processing fee per reservation. Date changes are subject to availability.
How early may we enter the Zoo on the day of our party?
You are allowed to enter the Zoo Learning Center 15 minutes prior to your Birthday Party start time. You are required to be out of the party room no later than 10 minutes after your scheduled party time. Extra time will not be allotted for late arrivals; please arrive on time. For every 10 minutes that your party exceeds its scheduled time, a $30 fee will be charged for payment that day.
Is there a place I can store my items before/after my party?
No – Birthday Parties are scheduled back-to-back. Storage is not available. You are welcome to rent or bring a wagon to transport these items, or place them in your vehicle while enjoying the Zoo.
When is payment due?
The non-refundable, nontransferable deposit of $100 must be paid at the time of reservation. Final payment is due no later than one week prior to your scheduled party. If the balance is not paid, the party will be cancelled and the deposit will be forfeited.
When is my final guest count due?
Final count for guest children and adults is due no later than one week prior to your scheduled party. Base fees cover up to 24 people. Additional participants may be added for $10 each.
May I bring my own decorations?
Yes, but with some restrictions. For the safety of our animals, balloons, confetti, glitter, streamers and other decorations with possible small-particle pieces are not allowed. You are allowed to enter the party room 15 minutes prior to your designated party time to decorate as you see fit. However, keep in mind that we do offer themed decoration options.
Are adults included in my final count?
Yes. You must have at least one adult chaperone for every eight children under the age of 18 years.
If I have fewer people than the party covers, is the price reduced?
No, the base fee is not discounted for smaller party sizes.
May I have a party for two children together?
We do allow combined parties for two children. Please note that all of the same terms, conditions, and features apply.
What kinds of animals are included with the Animal Encounter? May I choose the animals?
The health and well-being of the Kansas City Zoo’s animals is extremely important. The two Animal Ambassadors used for Birthday Parties are on a rotating schedule shared with other programming. As such, animals are assigned as the schedule dictates. Guests may inform us of which animals they would not like to see and we will try our best to accommodate. Keep in mind that this may limit the animals at your party. The Animal Ambassadors for Birthday Parties include, but are not limited to, two of the following animals.
- Mammals: chinchilla, rabbit, sugar glider
- Birds: chicken, parrot
- Reptiles: lizard, snake, tortoise
- Amphibians: frog, salamander, toad
- Invertebrates: cockroach, millipede
