Fall Events at the Toledo Zoo

As the leaves start to change and there is a crispness in the air, there’s no better place in Northwest Ohio to experience the magic of fall than the Toledo Zoo. The Toledo Zoo offers a wide range of exciting activities and events that perfectly capture the essence of the season. Read below for a rundown of all the fun fall things to do at the Toledo Zoo and make the most of your autumn. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, we will cover why the Toledo Zoo is a must-visit destination this fall. The Effler/Schmitt Co. and our Realtors are proud supporters of the Toledo Zoo.

Harvest Fest (Oct. 1-31)

Included with your membership or general admission, Harvest Fest will run throughout the month of October. It wouldn’t be fall without pumpkins and Harvest Fest will have giant pumpkins on display as well as animal themed pumpkin arrangements. On select days (Oct. 1, 1-2, Oct. 7, 11-3, and Oct. 8, 1-2) there will be pumpkin carving demonstrations in the main plaza. The entire zoo will be decked out in fall flora with fun fall activities for all. Watch the sun set and then see the Toledo Zoo in a whole new light with cozy campfires and autumn lights and lanterns. Autumn-centric food and beverage options will also be available for purchase throughout the zoo during Harvest Fest. See all the Harvest details here.

U at the Zoo (Oct. 5)

This evening is for all University students on Thursday, October 5 from 5-9 p.m. College ID or course schedule is required for the special admission and membership pricing, and the first 100 college students to arrive will receive a free U at the Zoo t-shirt. University students can enjoy free parking, discounts on fall mocktails, cocktails, and food. The evening will feature live music, animal encounters, and games geared toward the college crowd. See all U at the Zoo details here.

Zootober Fest (Oct. 6)

The Toledo Zoo’s take on Octoberfest, Zootober Fest is a beer tasting event with a fall twist of seasonal fall sours, pale ales, IPAs, and ciders from nearly 30 local and regional breweries. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time for this October 6 event that runs from 7-10 p.m. and is open to guests 21+.   Tickets include 15 samples, snacks, a special beer glass of your very own to take home, and live music entertainment. See the full Zootober Fest details and purchase tickets here.

Fall Fur All Family Night (Oct. 12)

Your little pumpkins won’t want to miss the Fall Fur All Family Night at the Toledo Zoo on Thursday, October 12. This is a great event to attend if you don’t already have a zoo membership as guests will receive half price admission after 4 p.m.! The main plaza will dazzle with strolling magic, pumpkin carving demonstrations, and a bounce house. Meet the Salem Sisters near the amphitheater and watch the spooky musical performance by Mary, Sarah, and Winifred at 7 p.m. Natures Neighborhood will be full of fun for the whole family with animal meet and greets and other fall activities available. More information on the Fall Fur All Family Night here.

Little Boo (Oct. 19 & 20)

Get a taste of Halloween that is freight-free at the Little Boo on Thursday, October 19 and Friday, October 20 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Children can trick-or-treat throughout the zoo, be amazed by strolling magic, and may even run into some of their favorite characters. The Pumpkin Express Train will run through Africa. Animal shows will take place at Nature’s Neighborhood. Note that reservations for the Little Boo are required and there are fees in addition to your membership to attend Little Boo. See all information on pricing and the Toledo Zoo’s costume protocol here.

The Pumpkin Path (Oct. 21 & 22)

The Pumpkin Path is the annual trick-or-treat event at the Toledo Zoo, taking place this fall on Saturday, October 21 and Sunday, October 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Spooky shows, magic, pumpkin carving, character meet and greets, the Pumpkin Express Train and more await you at the Pumpkin Path event. The zoo says “New at Pumpkin Path this year, as part of our Conda Family Zoo For All program, you can spend time in our Sensory Area, located in the formal gardens, near Kingdom of the Apes.  This will be a quiet zone with sensory-friendly activities and dedicated staff and volunteers to assist with any sensory needs.  Sensory bags are available for rental at both entrances.” There is a fee for children in addition to your membership to attend the Pumpkin Path, and full details can be found here.

Roar and Pour (Oct. 27)

Roar and Pour is an evening of fall fun strictly for the 21+ crowd on Friday, October 27 from 7-11 p.m. The Toledo Zoo says: “Experience Harvest Fest after-hours at this adults-only event. This outdoor fall evening features live music, fire pits, and ambassador animals for all guests to enjoy. Sip and stroll the garden area to learn about and sample varieties of bourbons and whiskeys, each thoughtfully paired with small bites. Spirits representatives will be on hand to share knowledge and answer questions. Bourbon and whiskey cocktails will also be available.” There will even be a cigar “lounge” in the gardens, with experts available to help you make taste tailored purchases. See all the details on Roar and Pour and purchase tickets to this event here.

More Fall Fun at the Toledo Zoo

Take a leisurely stroll through the zoo’s lush landscape and enjoy the vibrant fall foliage. The changing colors of the trees make for a picturesque backdrop, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere perfect for a day trip getaway. While exploring the zoo, don’t forget to indulge in some seasonal treats. Warm up with a cup of hot apple cider or savor the flavors of pumpkin spice and caramel apples available at the zoo’s eateries.

Fall is an excellent time to observe the zoo’s animal residents. As the temperatures cool down, many animals become more active. From the majestic big cats to playful primates, you’ll have the chance to witness these incredible creatures in their element. Fall is also a great time to learn more about the Toledo Zoo’s dedication to wildlife conservation. Explore the various exhibits and educational programs that showcase the zoo’s commitment to protecting endangered species and their natural habitats.

The Toledo Zoo is not just a summer destination; it’s a year-round adventure, and the fall season brings its own special charm. Whether you’re sipping craft beer under the twinkling lights, wandering the Pumpkin Path, or enjoying close encounters with exotic animals, the Toledo Zoo offers an unforgettable fall experience. See all the fall fun activities at the Toledo Zoo here.

Pumpkin Stomp and Chomp (Oct. 28)

You read that right. To close out the peak of the fall fun season, the Toledo Zoo is making sure its animal residents have a fantastic fall with the Pumpkin Stomp and Chomp on Saturday, October 28 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The zoo says this is, “Halloween fun for our animals as they discover pumpkins in their exhibits! Some animals will make a meal and others will make a mess, but all of them will be using their natural instincts and displaying natural behaviors! This is a great way to see your favorite animals and our enrichment program in action at the same time!” More details on the Pumpkin Stomp and Chomp, including a schedule of Keeper Talks and animal feed time, can be found here.

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