Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
6 end-of-summer activities to keep you entertained at the Birmingham Zoo
Reading time: 3 minutes
As the final weeks of summer approach, The Birmingham Zoo is turning up the fun with a variety of special events, new experiences and exciting offers for all ages.
Here are six ways to make the most of your summer at the Birmingham Zoo!
1. Homewood Day at the Zoo
Calling all Homewood residents! Celebrate your community with discounted admission to the Zoo for one day only.
- When: Saturday, July 19
- Adults (13+): $15.95 + tax
- Children (2–12): $11.95 + tax
- Under 2: Free
- Must show valid ID to receive discount
2. New VR films at the Zoo
Cool off with the Zoo’s latest Virtual Reality experience. A brand-new film, “Dolphins of the Reef,” takes viewers on an underwater journey to explore the unique bond between bottlenose dolphins and their coral reef habitat. It’s the third VR film now offered, joining “The Great Migration” and “Gorilla Trek.”
Located in the Trails of Africa next to the Predator Building, this immersive experience is air-conditioned, lasts about six minutes and offers up-close views of wildlife in a way you’ve never seen before.
- $5 for Zoo Members
- $7 for non-members
3. Big Machine Petting Zoo
Get up close with larger-than-life machines at the Zoo’s Big Machine Petting Zoo. Taking place in the Zoo parking lot, this family-friendly event features construction equipment from Thompson Tractor, fire trucks and safety vehicles from the City of Birmingham and Jefferson County.
It’s a great way to kick off your Zoo visit with a fun, free event before heading inside to see the animals.
- When: Saturday, August 2 | 10AM–2PM
4. Adult volunteer applications sign up
Attention animal lovers over 18: The Birmingham Zoo is now accepting applications for adult volunteers. Volunteers can choose from several roles, including:
- Guest Services
- Conservation, Science & Research
- Animal Care Support
- Education & Interpretation
Make the most of the rest of your summer by giving back. Whether you’re looking to gain experience or support conservation efforts, volunteering at the Zoo is a fulfilling way to stay involved.
5. Barons + Birmingham Zoo
Enjoy a weekend of baseball and wildlife with a series of fun events in partnership with the Birmingham Barons:
Zoo Member Night at the Barons
- Friday, July 25 | 7PM
- Zoo members receive BOGO admission
- Fireworks show after the game
Ambassador Animals at the Ballgame
- Sunday, July 27 | 4PM
- Meet Zoo animals on the field before the game
- A Zoo representative will throw the first pitch
Barons Day at the Zoo
- Sunday, August 3
- Barons season ticket holders receive half-price admission
- Come meet Baron, the Zoo’s newest flamingo—born after the Barons donated Regions Field dirt to the flamingo habitat. He’s the tallest of the flock and wears the number 14!
6. Summer’s Last Roar
Make your final summer weekends count with the return of Summer’s Last Roar. For two weekends only, everyone pays the child’s admission rate—no matter your age.
This family-favorite offer is a great excuse to visit your favorite Zoo animals one more time before school starts.
- July 26–27 & August 2–3
- All guests pay child pricing (children under 2 are always free)
For tickets, volunteer info and more details, visit birminghamzoo.com.
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