Families and kids of all ages can enjoy festive decorations, entertainers, many of your favorite Zoo exhibits and lots more at the Saint Louis Zoo's nighttime, non-scary Halloween experience Boo at the Zoo!
Boo at the Zoo is a long-time St. Louis family favorite, with fun, spellbinding decorations and great photo opportunities, spooktacular entertainment as actors bring the decorated areas to life, interaction with the animals, fun at the 4-D Theater, Conservation Carousel, and more. New in 2026: The Primate House will be open for Boo at the Zoo until 7:30 p.m.
At Boo at the Zoo you can visit the stingrays at the Caribbean Cove, slither into the Charles H. Hoessle Herpetarium and the Bayer Insectarium, as well as ride the Zooline railroad, see the Wild Explorer VR Experience, visit the Dinoroarus displays and more.
And don't forget the special food & drink menus and souvenir T-shirts!
Please note: this is not a trick-or-treating event. Costumes are encouraged!
Boo at the Zoo is happening on select nights from 5 to 8:30 p.m., October 9-30, 2026, at the Saint Louis Zoo. Tickets are available now.
October 12 is Sensory Friendly Night for guests with sensory sensitivities. This night includes sensory maps, quiet areas, and trained Zoo staff to assist individuals with sensory sensitivities.
Family-friendly costumes are encouraged! Scary costumes are not permitted. Costume masks and face paint/makeup that conceals the whole face are not permitted on guests 14 and older.
Get tickets at stlzoo.org
Stop in and have some fun in the indoor pool at the Lodge of Des Peres with your little one at this drop-in swim time for kids up to age 6. No pre-registration is needed; Water Waddlers is open to residents and non-residents of Des Peres.
The Preschool Science Series is an open exploration learning lab for young scientists - ages 18 months to 5 years - and their families. Activities are designed around research that shows children learn best through play, inquiry and shared experiences with their parents and caregivers.
At Sensory Friendly Night at Boo at the Zoo, families can enjoy festive decorations, Zoo attractions, entertainers, special food and drink menus and more in an environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities. This special night will mirror the traditional Boo at the Zoo experience, but also includes sensory maps, quiet areas and trained Zoo staff to assists guests.
At this free art program for ages 3-6 the focus is on the process of making art rather than the finished product. Dress to get messy!