Best Zoos in the Southeast for Halloween

Zoos and Boo to Zoo events offer a safe way to trick-or-treat. They also serve as an interactive Halloween activity for families, especially those with children under 12. Many zoos across the country host these events, and the southeast U.S. features dozens of these hauntingly fun attractions. Families will love taking trick-or-treaters through trails of candy and decorations. Here are the top zoos in the southeast that go above and beyond to entertain guests of all ages.

Top 10 Zoos in the Southeast for Halloween Festivities

Alabama: Birmingham Zoo

The zoo turned 60 years old in 2015, and its Boo at the Zoo is one of the most popular events in the area. The Skeleton Skate Ice Rink gives kids a place to skate with family and friends. Other Halloween festivities include haunted hayrides, train rides and fortune-telling.

Arkansas: Little Rock Zoo

This event ranks as one of the largest Halloween festivals in Arkansas. Kids love exploring botanical gardens full of spooky lights and decorations. They can also try obstacle courses, ride the Ferris wheel, or get their face painted. Those older than 8 years old should step into the haunted house if they dare.

Florida: Zoo Miami

One of the top zoos in Florida, Miami Zoo hosts Zoo Boo, two nights full of trick-or-treating, costume contests, live performances and more. Even animals participate in this event! Watch bears enjoy pumpkins and chimpanzees receive treat bags. Guests can also play games and win prizes.

Georgia: Zoo Atlanta

Wear your best costume, and get ready to boogie to live DJs at this Boo at the Zoo in Atlanta. Visitors also enjoy arts and crafts, up-close encounters with zoo mascots, and an inflatable corn maze. While playing, adults can join a good cause, and learn about sustainability preservation measures.

Kentucky: Louisville Zoo

Touted as the World’s Largest Halloween Party, this celebration offers a storybook land for little ones. Visitors can meet their favorite pirates and superheroes while trying sweet treats. The Astro Disco party keeps them moving, and don’t forget to take photos at Dinoland or the Wonderland Tea Party.

Louisiana: Audubon Zoo

Located in New Orleans, which has its own haunted history, Audubon Zoo welcomes ghosts and goblins to ride the ghost train, explore the haunted house and more. Kids also love playing laser tag and trying to find their way through the monster maze.

Mississippi: The Jackson Zoo

Dress up to join the parade, and dance the night away at The Jackson Zoo. The whole family is welcome to dance at the monster mash party. And don’t miss the photo booth for great photo ops. Guests can also play games, bounce on inflatables and see Jackson Showboats.

Tennessee: Memphis Zoo

The Le Bonheur Zoo Boo event is one of the largest in Tennessee and features kiddie and camel rides. At this family-friendly event, see singing pumpkins, tour Primate Canyon and dance at Dracula’s Disco. Magic shows and fortune tellers add extra fun.

Virginia: The Virginia Zoo

Meet mad scientists, and walk Blackbeard’s plank at this Zoo Boo in Norfolk. Guests can also hop aboard the train, or try to win costume contests. Other things to do include a learning cemetery, games, a dance floor and bounce house.

West Virginia: Hovatter’s Wildlife Zoo

Haovatter’s offers free hot chocolate – and free coffee for adults – as well as popcorn while little ones trick-or-treat through the trail. Kids who dress up have a chance to win special prizes and enjoy perks, including a free pass for the next season.

Want more top zoos in the southeast? Read about cities in Alabama, Tennessee and South Carolina. Or find things to do in other popular destinations.