ZooAmerica Offers Virtual Programs, Encounters and Tours

Have you heard? ZooAmerica can bring the zoo to you this winter through live virtual animal programs, encounters, training sessions and tours. These outreach offerings are perfect for the classroom, scout meetings, work meetings and even birthday parties. Participants will learn more about various North American animals, their habitats, and all things wild. Check out the different options below. 

Virtual Programs

Each of the following virtual programs is available any day between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. for up to 25 remote learners. The programs run for 45 minutes and cost $175 each. All programs meet PA academic standards and COVID safety enhancements.

A To Zoo
This program is targeted at preschoolers and students in 1st grade. Participants will learn the alphabet in a wild way with a ZooAmerica twist on the ABC's. There will be live animals, lots of biofacts and a Q&A session with zoo educators.

Native Pennsylvania Species
Designed for 1st grade and up, this program allows participants to learn about the wildlife species that call our state home. There will be live animals and a Q&A session with zoo educators. 

Paws, Claws, Scales & Tails
Participants will learn about the adaptations animals use for survival in the wild with live animals and a Q&A session with zoo educators. This program is designed for all ages.

Endangered Species
Ideal for 3rd grade and up, this program examines the reasons behind the decline in wildlife populations, habitat changes, and the importance of biodiversity with live animals through an interactive session with our educators. 

Virtual Encounters

ZooAmerica offers three live virtual encounters to brighten up a remote school day, liven up a work or scout meeting, bring some excitement to the library or surprise someone on their birthday. The programs range from 15 to 20 minutes and cost $75 each. Please note that the animals have the choice to participate in a training session.

2 Animals
Participants will come face to face virtually with two ambassador animals. There will be a 5-minute Q&A after the presentation.

1 Animal with Training
Have you ever wondered how and why animals are trained at ZooAmerica? Now is your chance to find out! Participants will choose an animal from a selection to join them in an up-close training session with their trainers.

Skunk Painting with Training
This encounter features a virtual painting session with one of the zoo's amazing, artistic skunks. Participants can choose the colors that the skunk will paint with as they learn about their training and ask questions. The painting will be mailed to the participants at the end. 

Virtual Tours

ZooAmerica offers two virtual tours available any day between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

1 Animal
Up to 25 participants will join a virtual tour of one habitat and learn all about the animal that lives there. Options include the otters, bears, mountain lion, pronghorn, wolves and thick-billed parrots. The tour lasts 15 minutes and costs $75.

Outside Animal Tour
Up to 25 participants will join a virtual tour of the following animals in their outdoor habitats: bobcat, otters, bears, elk, mountain lion, pronghorn, snowy owl, wolves, deer, bald eagle, porcupine and lynx. While there is no guarantee that all animals will be visible, participants will still learn about each of them. The tour lasts 45 minutes and costs $250.

Book Today!

All virtual programs, animal encounters and tours must be scheduled at least one week in advance. To book a program, encounter or tour, call 717-634-3865 or email tmwilson@hersheypa.com. The team will do their best to accommodate any special schedule requests not already listed.