The mission of the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is simple: help people gain a greater appreciation of wildlife, encourage family fun in a natural setting and help save the world’s wild animals and wild places.
The zoo knows that the future of the environment and its inhabitants rests in the hands of children. As a result, the staff takes seriously their goal of educating young visitors, ensuring that not only are kids entertained by the zoo’s 1,500 creatures, but also enlightened through the many amazing programs available to families.
While day-trippers are treated to a host of interactive programs that help kids get to know the animal world, it’s especially worthwhile to look into some of the zoo’s unusual overnight experiences to get the most from the facility. Family Wild Nights are held throughout the summer, allowing kids to get a peek into nightlife in the animal world.
Additionally, kids interested in the life aquatic can attend the Sleep With the Sharks Family Adventure, which includes a specialized program about underwater predators and a sleepover in the aquarium. Meanwhile, more traditional campers can bring their tents on designated nights and enjoy a classic family campout (classic, that is, except for all the exotic wildlife from around the world resting nearby).
Family overnights take place throughout the season, so plan a trip to Indiana around an educational night at the zoo.