ZooAmerica Hosts Discovery Weekends in January 2026
Free Weekend Admission For Kids 8 and Under With Purchase Of Regular Ticket
Families looking for a fun activity to beat the winter blues and cabin fever should consider a weekend visit to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park this month for its special Discovery Weekends programming.
Discovery Weekends offer visitors the opportunity to delve deeper into the adaptations of the Zoo's diverse animal residents. Each weekend will feature unique themes designed to educate and engage guests of all ages, along with enrichment activities, zookeeper chats and fun crafts that aren't available during a standard visit.
Here's the remaining schedule:
- Jan. 10-11: Daring Diggers
- Jan. 17-18: Curious Climbers
- Jan. 24-25: Super Swimmers
Free Admission for Kids on January Discovery Weekends
On Saturdays and Sundays this January, children ages eight and under will receive free admission to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park with the purchase of a regularly priced adult or senior admission ticket.
Please note: This special admission offer is only available for tickets purchased in person at the Zoo Admissions Building upon arrival. The discount cannot be applied to tickets purchased online.
Current ZooAmerica Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited year-round visits to the 11-acre Zoo. 2026 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders also receive free Zoo admission, even during the Hersheypark off-season.
Plan a Winter Zoo Visit
Beyond Discovery Weekends, ZooAmerica welcomes visitors daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. throughout the winter season.
Those who are willing to bundle up in the crisp Central Pennsylvania winter air are in for a treat, as many of the animals in the outdoor habitats are often more active when the temperature drops. Guests might witness otters playfully swimming, elk grazing or mountain lions moving with a more noticeable alertness.
Furthermore, the Zoo’s two indoor regions provide warm havens and equally engaging wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors should be sure to stop by the Southern Swamps building to welcome Ori, the Cuvier's dwarf caiman, to the ZooAmerica family. Ori made her debut at the Zoo in September 2025 and has quickly become a guest favorite.
ZooAmerica is just one of the many attractions open in Hershey, Pa., this month. The destination also offers a unique blend of sports, entertainment, relaxation and delicious dining this New Year. For a comprehensive guide to all the fun, check out our top 13 things to do across the destination this January 2026.