Classes and Camps

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kids with armadillo

Miller Park Zoo offers a variety of fun & educational programs throughout the year. Registration is required for all classes.

All program registration is handled through the Bloomington Parks & Recreation Department.Click here for registration information.

For additional information on Zoo programs contact us at (309) 434-2250.

Animal Crackers
for ages 3 - 5 & an adult

Animal Crackers is a Miller Park Zoo classic! Join us once each month for a story, animal encounter, craft, and snack. 
Our topic is always a surprise. We have a great time guessing which animal will visit! One adult accompanies each child to class but does not pay an additional registration fee. The registration fee includes admission to the Zoo for the 
participating child and one adult on the day of class.

*Children must be at least three years old to participate.
*Unregistered siblings of any age may not attend. 
Classes are identical in each session, so please register for only one class per month.

Friday, October 25, 10:00-11:00AM
Friday, October 25, 1:00-2:00 PM
Friday, October 25, 5:00PM-6:00PM
Saturday, October 26, 9:00-10:00AM
Saturday, October 26, 10:30-11:30AM
Saturday, October 26, 1:00-2:00PM

Fees: 
$10 per child for MPZS members
$15 per child for non-members
Max: 12

Zoo Explorers: Bird Keepers (Ages 6-11)

Zoo Explorers is a terrific 2-hour adventure that includes animal encounters, classroom learning, and hands-on experiences out at the Zoo.  

Please sign up for only one class; curriculum will be the same both morning and afternoon. 

Monday, January 20, 9:00-11:00AM  
Monday, January 20, 1:00-3:00PM

Fees:
$20 per person for MPZS members
$30 per person for non-members
Max: 15

Art of Animals: Shading (Ages 8-17)

Science meets art in this creative class. Instructor Jill Wallace, artist and naturalist, will guide you through the art of shading! You will visit exhibits at the zoo and even meet animals in the classroom. You’ll learn how to give your drawings dimension in this dynamic class. Classes will take place at Miller Park Zoo. All art materials and a snack will be provided.

Monday, October 14   
Ages 8-11 years: 9:00AM-12:00PM 
Ages 12-17 years: 1:00-4:00PM

Fees:
$30 per person for MPZS members
$35 per person for non-membersMax: 15

Conservation & You! (Ages 6-16)

In this class, you will learn about the importance of conservation and how Miller Park Zoo is connected all around the world to improve the well-being of endangered wildlife. Come to the Zoo to learn all about the initiatives we have and what you can do to help! This 2-hour journey includes animal encounters, classroom learning, and hands-on experiences out in the Zoo.  

Monday, November 11
Ages 6-10 years: 9:00-11:00AM
Ages11-16 years: 1:00-3:00PM

Fees:
$20 per person for MPZS members
$30 per person for non-members
Max: 15

Winter Wilds Day Camp: Animal Adaptations (Ages 6-11)

At this camp, we will learn all the ways animals’ bodies help them survive in the wild. We will even create our own new species! Along the way, we’ll meet some Zoo animals, make a craft, and enjoy fun, educational activities. A snack will be provided. An animal video will be played during lunch between morning and afternoon activities. 
Please bring a sack lunch and wear play clothes. 

Curriculum is identical for each day; please register for only one session.

Thursday, December 26, 9:00AM-3:00PM
Friday, December 27, 9:00AM-3:00PM
Saturday, December 28, 9:00AM-3:00PM

Fees:
$60 per person for MPZS members
$70 per person for non-members
Max: 15

For those 55 Years and Over

Second Wednesday of the month
8:30-9:30 am
$5 per person (Free for MPZs members)

Take your morning stroll at the Zoo!  We’ll visit a different area of the Zoo each month & learn about the animals who live there.  You’ll be guided by a knowledgeable staff member who will give you amazing information…and maybe even a peek behind the scenes!  No reservations are required.  Your tour guide will meet you at the Zoo entrance.  Tours will begin promptly at 8:30.