Central Florida Zoo celebrates Earth Day with early admission for guests with sensory needs

Nikki DeMarco
Updated ·2 min read

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is getting ready to Party for the Planet and is hosting a special conservation day making the zoo more accessible than ever.

The event, held on Earth Day, will include interactive activities, special enrichment for the animals and more.

To make sure all can celebrate, the Zoo will also open one hour early for guests and families with sensory needs and the Zoo will have special operations to accommodate them.

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“Our goal at the Central Florida Zoo is truly to be a place for all people and all communities to feel welcome so we can share our conservation mission with them,” said Zoo CEO Richard Glover. “That’s exactly what we’ll be able to do at the Party for the Planet, and we’re thrilled to introduce this effort.”

Sensory considerations the Zoo is taking include limited attendance for quieter crowds; sensory bags available with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, and more. The Zoo will also provide a dedicated classroom for a safe space to take a break if needed.

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The event will take place on Saturday, April 22. Guests who have sensory needs can enter at 8 a.m. The Zoo will open to the public at 9 a.m., and the Party for the Planet will continue until 3 p.m.

The Party for the Planet event will include a scavenger hunt, games, crafts and more to inspire visitors to take action to care for the planet and its animals.

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Keepers will also be sharing special talks at regular times throughout the day, so people can learn more and get an up-close look at animals.

All of the activities are included in Zoo admission.

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The Zoo plans to continue with early access hours for people with sensory considerations at select future events, Glover said.

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