Ultimate Guide to the Nashville Zoo Grasmere: Wild Encounters Await!
If you’re looking for a wild day out in Nashville, you can’t do much better than the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or flying solo, this zoo offers an unforgettable experience. With over 2,800 animals and 375 different species, you’ll discover something new around every corner. And with Clean Drop handling your laundry, you’ll have more time to fully explore the zoo stress-free!
Getting There and Tickets
The Nashville Zoo is located just 6 miles southeast of downtown at Grassmere Historic Farm. With easy access from I-65 or I-24, getting to the zoo is a breeze. Parking costs $8, so make sure to bring cash or pay by card at the kiosks.
Ticket prices vary depending on the season, but you can generally expect to pay $21 for adults and $4 dollars less than adult for kids (ages 2-12). Pro tip: If you plan on visiting multiple times a year, a membership is totally worth it! Not only do you get unlimited access, but also discounts on special events and zoo experiences.
Must-See Zoo Exhibits
Expedition Peru: Trek of the Andean Bear
A fan favorite! This immersive exhibit brings you up close to Andean bears, sloths, and capybaras. The landscape mimics the animals’ natural habitats, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to the rainforest.
African Savannah
Get a front-row seat to giraffes, white rhinos, zebras, and ostriches roaming in their open habitat. Make sure to catch the daily giraffe feeding experience—it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
Critter Encounters
If you want a more hands-on experience, head over to the Critter Encounters area. You can pet goats, kangaroos, and even the elusive giant tortoise (slow and steady wins the race!).
Flamingo Lagoon
If you’re into pink birds, you’ll love the Flamingo Lagoon. It’s a tranquil spot to relax and observe these vibrant, iconic creatures.
Unseen New World
Step into a realm of reptiles, amphibians, and creepy crawlies! This exhibit showcases some of the most fascinating species from the New World, including poison dart frogs, anacondas, and exotic fish.
Special Zoo Experiences
Wild Animal Carousel
For just $2, hop on the Wild Animal Carousel. With 39 different animal replicas to choose from, it’s a fun ride for both kids and adults!
Soaring Eagle Zip Line
Looking for some adventure? The Soaring Eagle Zip Line offers a bird’s-eye view of the zoo. At $8 per ride, it’s an exhilarating way to experience the landscape from above.
Special Yearly Events at the Nashville Zoo
Zoo Run Run (January)
Kick off the new year with the Zoo Run Run, a fun 5K race that winds through the zoo’s scenic pathways. Open to all ages and fitness levels, this event supports the zoo’s conservation efforts while offering a unique way to explore the grounds.
Eggstravaganzoo (Spring)
Each spring, Eggstravaganzoo offers an Easter celebration like no other, featuring egg hunts for kids of all ages, live entertainment, and special keeper talks. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the season while exploring the zoo’s many exhibits.
Brew at the Zoo (Summer)
For adults, Brew at the Zoo is an annual summer event featuring over 100 craft beers, wine, live music, and access to select animal exhibits after hours. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a night out while supporting the zoo.
Sunset Safari (September)
The zoo’s annual Sunset Safari fundraiser in September combines gourmet food from top local restaurants, fine wine, and live entertainment for an elegant evening under the stars. All proceeds benefit the zoo’s education and conservation programs.
Boo at the Zoo (October)
During select nights in October, Boo at the Zoo brings the Halloween spirit to life with trick-or-treating, a haunted hayride, and festive decorations. Geared toward families with young children, this event offers fun for the whole family, from costume contests to special animal encounters after dark.
Zoolumination: Chinese Festival of Lights (Winter)
From November through January, Zoolumination transforms the zoo into a glowing wonderland with stunning Chinese lantern displays. With over 500 custom-made silk lanterns, the zoo is illuminated by animals, mythical creatures, and cultural icons in this unforgettable light festival.
Check the calender to stay up to date.
Insider Tips
- Pack a Lunch
While there are several on-site dining options (like Zoofari Café and DinoTrek Grille), bringing your own food can save money and give you more flexibility. The picnic area just outside the zoo entrance is perfect for a midday break. - Wear Comfortable Shoes
The Nashville Zoo covers over 200 acres, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. With hilly terrain and lots of ground to cover, you’ll be thankful you left the flip-flops at home! - Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit the zoo are during the milder seasons of spring and fall. The animals are most active early in the morning or late afternoon, so plan your visit around those times for the best experience.
Trade laundry duty for a walk on the wild side
The Nashville Zoo is a wild escape from the everyday. With Clean Drop handling your laundry, you’ll have more time to monkey around with the primates, marvel at the majestic lions, and basically just be a happy zoo camper. So, skip the spin cycle and schedule a pick-up today.
Looking for kid-friendly things to do in Nashville this weekend. Look no further.
Looking for more adult things to do in Nashville this weekend? We have that covered too.