Zoo FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Can we purchase admission tickets online or in person?

Guests can purchase tickets for admission, experiences, and parking on-line for a discounted rate or at the Zoo Admission Booths. Click here to get on-line tickets.

Can I receive a discount with my EBT/ACCESS card?

We do not offer a discount with an EBT/ACCESS card. However, visit your local library and check out a membership card for Free Admission & Parking or visit us on any of our Free Admission Days.

I did not receive a confirmation email with my tickets; what can I do?

You should have received a ticket confirmation email; our apologies if you did not.  Please check your SPAM or junk mail folder and your inbox for an email from RockislandCFP@rectrac.com. If you still do not see the confirmation, it is very easy to reprint your receipt, which will be accepted at the admission gate upon arrival.

Go to niabizoo.com, click My Account at the top of the page, log into your Household Account, click My Account, and Click Reprint A Receipt. This will bring up all of your receipts.  You will be able to choose the most recent one. Please print it off or download it and bring it with you on your visit.

If you still have trouble accessing your tickets, you may have accidentally entered an incorrect email address. Please email us at info@niabizoo.com for assistance. If you do not get a response by your visiting date but see a charge on your bank account upon arrival, please stop by the Front Desk for assistance.

Do you charge for parking?

Yes. A small parking fee helps maintain our parking lot and directly benefits education and conservation initiatives at Niabi Zoo. [Learn more]

Do you offer a military or senior discount?

Yes, we offer a military and senior citizen discount. Click here for more information on pricing.

Do you offer group rates?

Group discounts are offered to parties of 20 or more with a 2-week advance notice.

For more information on pricing click here.

What if my group or Field trip doesn't meet the 20 person minimum?

We want to ensure that everyone has a chance to visit the zoo. However, at this time, we offer a discount for groups of 20 or more because it helps us keep the trip affordable for everyone. While we can’t offer discounts on tickets for groups under 20, we provide Free Admission Days towards the end of our season that many groups take advantage of due to cost.

Free Admission Days (must pay to park)
September 12-15
September 19-22
September 26-29
October 3-6
October 10-13
October 17-20
October 24-27

Also, In the past, other small groups have successfully combined with other groups or organizations to meet the minimum requirement and receive the discount.

For more information on pricing click here.

Do you offer free days?

Yes. Niabi Zoo offers free days on weekdays in the Fall. Check our free days schedule for specific dates. [Learn more]

Can I bring food and beverages to the zoo?

Absolutely! Outside food, drink, and coolers are allowed. For the safety of the animals, you may NOT bring:

  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Glass containers
  • Grills
  • Straws

Does the zoo close due to the weather?

The zoo remains open regardless of weather conditions, whether rain or shine. Please be aware that ticket sales are non-refundable for any reason, including inclement weather, rain, or excessive heat.

In certain weather conditions, specific animals may be temporarily removed from public viewing to ensure their well-being.

In the rare event that severe weather threatens the safety of our guests and staff, leading to the closure of the zoo to the public, closure information will be promptly posted on our website and the zoo’s social media accounts.

If you’ve purchased tickets online, they remain valid for use on another day within the current season.

What is the zoo's refund policy?

Admission/Ride/Feeding tickets are nonrefundable.

The zoo remains open regardless of weather conditions, whether rain or shine. Please be aware that ticket sales are non-refundable for any reason, including inclement weather, rain, or excessive heat.

In certain weather conditions, specific animals may be temporarily removed from public viewing to ensure their well-being.

In the rare event that severe weather poses a threat to the safety of our guests and staff, leading to the closure of the zoo to the public, closure information will be promptly posted on our website and the zoo’s social media accounts.

If you’ve purchased tickets online, they remain valid for use on another day within the current season.

Our refund policy is stated before the purchase; please read carefully before purchasing your ticket section and the terms and conditions acknowledged before payment at checkout.

Can I drop off my child at the zoo? How old do they need to be without an adult present during their visit?

A child must be 16 years or older to visit the zoo without a parent or legal guardian present.

How old does a child have to ride the train alone?

A child must be 10 years or older to ride the train without a parent or legal guardian present.

Are pets allowed at the zoo?

Pets are not allowed at the zoo.

Can I bring a service animal?

Service animals are welcome at Niabi Zoo. Click here to review Niabi Zoo’s service animal policy 

What items are not allowed on zoo grounds?

For the safety of our guests, staff, and animals, we ask that the following items NOT be brought on zoo grounds:

  • Pets
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Glass containers
  • Straws
  • Grills
  • Laser pointers
  • Skateboards, rollerblades, bicycles, or similar
  • Radios/stereos
  • Firearms
  • Knives
  • Remote control/motorized devices such as drones, toys, etc.

What is your policy on power-driven mobility devices?

Does the zoo have strollers and wheelchairs available?

Yes, we have strollers (single and double), wheelchairs, and motor scooters. [Learn more]

Can I smoke at the zoo?

There is no smoking permitted on zoo grounds. You may leave zoo grounds to smoke through the exit gate but must stop at the Wild Things Gift Shop to get a stamp for reentry. You must be 15-feet away from all zoo buildings, exits and entrances while smoking.

Do you have an ATM?

Yes, an ATM is located in the Discovery Center to the right of the zoo admission gates.

Does the Zoo have baby nursing stations?

A family restroom is available in the Discovery Center hallway to accommodate family needs such as breastfeeding, diaper changing, toddler use with parents, etc. A chair and outlet are available in the family restroom.

Diaper changing stations are available in the Discovery Center and Wolf’s Paw Concession restrooms.