CUTE SMALL ZOO! I needed an activity to do in Prescott, and remembered we passed a zoo on our way into town. With tickets being only $12, why not? The zoo was very small. We spent just shy of 2 hours inside. The most "exotic" animals would be the bear and wolves. Lots of birds and local Arizona animals. We did get to see the wolves get fed, which was the highlight of the day. I did see them preparing a wedding in the event area, as well as a birthday party in the petting zoo area. It's pretty neat that you can do events here. This is good to kill a couple hours but don't plan a whole trip around it. read more

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary - Petting zoo - Zoos Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

My boyfriend and I enjoyed a quick weekend up in Prescott and we decided to check out the zoo! We had a great time. It's not a very large zoo so the outing only took us about an hour and a half, but we had a great time. It was kept very clean, the animals were easy to spot and the staff was very friendly. read more

We went to the Zoo Lites!! It was great! Got to see some animals. But the lights were spectacular. First time going to the Zoo lites! They had a DJ and some hot cocoa, hot apple cider, and hot coffee with Cookies!! We had a blast! read more

This is a hidden gem! We visited on a chilly January day and most of the animals were outside sunning themselves. The volunteers were super friendly and knowledgeable about the animals. A great experience for an older couple visiting from away. read more

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This is a cute little zoo that focuses on wildlife rehabilitation. We enjoyed going a few times with our toddler, but then one day we were told that we couldn't bring in the straws in our drinks, but we could bring in the plastic cups and lids, water bottles with small plastic caps, no problem. It's just the straws, which proves that it doesn't actually have to do with animal welfare, but it's just an arbitrary rule to placate some trendy stupidity. Of course, that rule also assumes that you're going to just throw your trash all around, so that's a lovely way to be treated by a place that is wanting your money. No thanks. We'll go elsewhere from now on. I emailed the zoo director and she even admitted that all kinds of trash can be harmful to the animals, but still insisted that the straw ban was logical and not arbitrary. You just can't reason with people like that. read more

Terrific place to spend a few hours with the kiddos while in Prescott. We really enjoyed visiting all of the animals, and there were plenty of kid-friendly areas throughout. Friendly workers, reasonable rates, clean facilities (for a zoo). Signage throughout that informed us about each animal and where they came from - our first grade daughter really enjoyed those. The play areas were great for the kids too. I think their favorite animals were the baby owls right by the entrance. All in all a great afternoon. read more

Wild Lights & Animal Sights at the zoo! We went tonight on opening weekend. This special holiday event is open from 6-9 pm every Friday & Saturday night from Thanksgiving weekend until the end of December. The little zoo is lit up with Christmas lights and displays. Very festive. We did not see many animals as it was dark in their pens and many were hiding. We did see owls, a raven, a pacing jaguar & the backside of a bobcat. The tarantula and reptile rooms were open (nice & warm in there!) We enjoyed hot chocolate and cookies ($2 for hot chocolate, $1 per wrapped cookie). Photo ops were plentiful. Our 7-year-old granddaughter had fun & scored a reptile veterinarian kit from us in the gift shop. It was not crowded. It is a small zoo and very walkable. We stayed about 75 minutes which was plenty of time. Cost was $12 per person (no child price). It all goes to a great cause. I recommend Wild Lights. It's a fun holiday experience for the family. read more

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I give it 5 stars because they are a rehab and rescue zoo and we 4 enjoyed a lovely autumn visit there. We surprisingly saw so many of the animals. Their enclosures aren't the biggest like other large zoos, so that's likely why. They are not for profit and not funded by anyone else but visitors and donors. Our family enjoyed the grounds and the animals. It's definitely a small scale zoo and please don't compare it to anything bigger.. They're small and that's all. Staff was welcoming and informative. We would happily return next time. read more

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So this is a sanctuary... and in remembering it's purpose- it's admirable and wonderful that this place is caring for animals and saving lives. That said, it was a little impossible to enjoy or see animals in the afternoon as they were hiding from the scorching heat. Additionally, the larger animals like the bear and mountain lion looked really sad in their small enclosures. The grounds were pretty and the dragonflies and bunnies were fun to look at. I'd recommend an early morning visit when the animals are out and it's cooler. read more

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary - Zoos Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

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It is a small zoo and it is outdoors but you get to see close up some of the animals which was pretty nice. They also have a playground which my kid loved. The giftshop had a pretty good selection of commom and uncommon things. The staff were really nice and friendly. I would recommend going when it is not too cold or raining. read more

We enjoyed our day at heritage park zoo and loved looking at all the signs that tell you where the animals came from and their names. Although we came when on one of the coldest days the kids enjoyed the indoor warm reptile rooms. They also enjoyed the play structure and running some energy out. Some of the animals were off exhibit due to winter and it being cold -understandable We didn't feel like prices needed to be lowered like other reviews state. The $10 per adult and $6 for children was a fair price considering it was just a quick fun stop for us and not an all day thing like a big zoo would be. We also met a family at the zoo who explained that they donated the skunk that is on display at the zoo. The skunk was probably my kids favorite animal to see. We laughed for a bit as the skunk was climbing in and out of a paper Taco Bell bag. (Did not seem to be in danger, but more just curious and having fun) I highly recommend as a quick stop. ** masks were recommended but walking around no one had masks on and all kept their distance -zoo was pretty empty maybe saw 5 families in the 2 hours we were there Also has beautiful views of the lake and mountains and staff was super friendly and answered all our questions read more

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There wasn't much action with the animals due to the heat and the park is really small but the staff were very helpful with my many questions about the who, what, where and why. It's geared more towards small children with a water splash pad at the front. Not enough to do for us to return, especially since we live in the West Valley but we were happy to see our money (entrance fee) going to so much good. read more

Just so you know....it's more of a sanctuary for abandoned and rescued animals. Most the the animals here were also pets at some time in thier life, so I wouldn't really call it a zoo. It's a great non-profit to help out animals in need for a home, but it's also kinda sad how long some of these animals have been living there in such small enclosures. Example: one black bear was rescued as a cub because a hunter killed it's mother in the Flagstaff area. This rescued bear has been there a loooong time, and it showed. Pacing back and forth and back and forth from boredom. I'm sure the staff does thier best to keep that bear comfortable and happy, but seriously, what bear would be happy like that? Bears naturally like to roam. Ok, moving on. So yeah, the staff is friendly and the sanctuary grounds were kept fairly clean. It's small enough so you don't have to worry about getting lost. There's a limited amount of animals here, but remember, it is a sanctuary, not really a zoo. We missed the summer rush time and came in the winter. Unfortunately, a lot of the exhibits were closed for the winter. Maybe they should consider giving a 20% discount during winter hours? The animals we did see... A couple of bears, one bangled tiger, one mountain lion, a few lynxes, a pair of wolves, a capuchin monkey and a few lemurs. There was also a few donkeys, a bunch of wild pigs, some Imus and a pair of lamas, some bunnies, one turkey and a bunch of chickens free roaming. Near the gift shop there were some cages for the birds of prey. The had 2 vultures, an owl and 2 bald eagles. They also had a parrot and some other cute little birds I forgot thier names. The reptiles and a few other animals were gone, due to the winter season. So yeah, you can slooooooowly walk through this place and giggle a few times at the monkey and I'd say it will take you an hour-1/2 to walk through. If your in a hurry, I'd say it could take you about 20 minutes to see everything. They also have playground equipment for little kids and eating areas for picnics. I guess it's worth a visit, but I personally wouldn't buy a membership to come back over and over again. I think it would be fun if your worked there and we're able to interact with the animals, besides that.... Support your local sanctuary. read more

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The animals, a lot (maybe all) of which seem to have been rescued, appear to be well-cared for. The indoors exhibits are clean, and the enclosures are well-maintained. The staff is pleasant. Enjoyed my visit! read more

This was another hidden surprise during a recent fall trip to Prescott. We were looking for the opportunity to be outside, yet none in my party had dressed for a proper hike, This was perfect. It is tidy and well maintained and to top it off- we happened to go on a day that was free! The animals look well cared for, and I like the fact that the signage often explains how it is that the animal came to be there (since it is a rescue org) and why it can't be released. The zookeeper was very knowledgeable regarding the animals and beyond that, was willing to answer all our questions! Sweet trip- will make it again. read more

This small local zoo would be much better IF visitors were able to actually see the majority of the animals. The best times to come must be on a cloudy "cool" morning - since almost any other time most of the animals are trying to "beat the heat". The fencing also makes it hard to see (and especially photograph) the animals in their exhibit areas. Despite all that, it is still a nice place to come for a SHORT visit. read more

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary - Zoos Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

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I understand and applaud the mission of Heritage Park Zoo. They provide a very needed service by providing a home for these orphaned and injured animals. But I couldn't help saying to myself as I walked the grounds, "Oh, I don't know about this." The chainlink enclosures are too small and confining. I was especially bothered by the black bear and Bengal tiger enclosure. Way too small and they're all alone. I was reminded of the Richmond (VA) Metro Zoo that I visited in the spring and that was the worst zoo I've ever seen. I really think they need to relocate some of these animals to a better sanctuary so their quality of life could be better served. I know they mean well but it's too small and not addressing the physical and mental well-being of these animals. I wish I could say otherwise but I just did not like what I saw. read more

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So impressed! So much bang for your buck! My family was in Prescott for an impromptu, overnight getaway. It was nice to leave the intense Phoenix heat for a bit. We decided to come here based on the good reviews & the price - only $10 per adult & my 2 year old daughter was free. Parking was conveniently close to the entrance. There is also a playground right at the front which you can enjoy coming or going or both. Once inside, it seemed like there were animals everywhere! I'm used to the Phoenix Zoo, which we love, but it's huge, the exhibits are really spread out, & sometimes you don't see animals for awhile. That was not the case here! We were able to walk the entire zoo in about an hour (perfect amount of time for our toddler). And the best part in my opinion was how close up the animals are. You're not straining to look for movement in the background somewhere. No, they are right there in front of you! I've never seen a bear so close in my life! There were also reptile & insect houses if you like that sort of thing. It was a great experience for all of us! I'll definitely make it a point to come back again! & I'll be recommending to all my friends! read more

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I absolutely loved this sanctuary because it has character and it is helping animals that may not be here today without their help. The Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary was one of my favorite places that we visited on our trip to Prescott. This particular sanctuary rescues animals that can no longer be in the wild or were kept as pets that really shouldn't have been. The place is small but it makes it easier to check out all the enclosures. While we were there, the animals were happy, had tons of enrichment activities and you could tell they loved the zookeepers. Some enclosures didn't have animals in them which made me feel disappointed but the animals that we did see made up for it. Some of my favorites were Augustus the Bear, he was climbing his enclosure, playing with toys and just showing off. the wandering peacocks were pretty cool, we even got a few of their pictures up close. There was a hilarious alpaca that cracked me up and kept watching us too. Overall it was just something fun to do that didn't take up a lot of time. I wish we had gone a day later because some exhibits let you come in and interact with the animals. Also make sure you snag a groupon if you can, if not it's pretty inexpensive either way. til later alligator! read more

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If I was an animal in this tiny zoo, I would petition to be left where I was "rescued". The poor tiger and most other animals have a tiny hut and tiny cage to hang out in and that cage is all rocks and dirt with no water features or grass in site. Ninety percent of the animals had retired to those huts during our visit which did occur on a 80 degree day, which is hot for this area. Still, the cages seemed dirty and the conditions were not looking too cozy for the mountain lion and both bears which we never saw. If there was a best part, it was the spiders. You can finish the zoo in about an hour and make sure to use groupon for 2 for $15 if you need to go that badly. Too much construction as well. read more

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary - Spidey - Zoos Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

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Wonderful place to visit with the family. Our group of 6 adults and 5 grandkids went on a Wednesday. Really nice grounds, plenty of displays and a great assortment of animals for us all to enjoy. The staff were terrific. Took time to explain the histories of the animals. Many of the animals were rescued from private parties and other wild animal facilities that were no longer able to properly care for them. You can see the animals are treated very well. The kids really loved it. Got to see some exotic animals, reptiles, beautiful birds and even local wild life (javelinas, coyotes and a beautiful mountain lion). Will visit again. Was a very good,enjoyable experience for us all. Good organization to support too. read more

This is a very small and accessible zoo for young families. Brought young kid who enjoyed the playgrounds and snake house. The exhibits have great visibility. Very affordable. read more

We visited this place in March and we thoroughly enjoyed our experience there. We are very familiar with Phoenix Zoo and here we found a few interesting exhibits that they don't have there. They had 2 Bear exhibits, coyotes, foxes, vultures, falcons, tarantulas, deer, etc. and for most of the animals, it felt that you could get very close to observe their behavior and really enjoy the experience. We do not come here often but wanted to support their effort, so we ended up getting a membership. Note on Parking: You do not have to pay to park here, it just happens to be next to a city park parking and if you get to the booth to pay, it means you missed your right turn at the Sanctuary. read more

OMG!!! This place is amazing!! So much better than a zoo. Come out and see these amazing creatures that God created and support this facility. They rescue these beautiful animals and heal them for pain they had endure from people who don't and shouldn't be keeping them as pets. The staff here are knowledgeable amd friendly. Will definitely visit again. read more

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary - Zoos Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

We had a great time, would have stayed longer but it was 105 degrees out and our 18 month old was not living the heat. We started our day seeing the tiger get fed. Warning to kids/squeamish adults the tigers are given food that would eat in the wild, which today meant a frozen, whole rabbit. It was amazing to see the tiger anticipating the meal and even "groaning" when it was 5 minutes late! Picture your dog mumbling and grumbling when it wants your dinner! Be advised that when the tiger gets its "meal" it will run around and play with it, the way it would in the wild, then dig in. We loved seeing the bears, owls, and 10 week old cubs! The bald and American eagles were a treat as well. This is a place that takes injured or orphaned animals, and not some slick zoo, and you can really tell that the caretakers care about the animals. The grounds were impeccably clean, and the animals looked healthy. It was pretty hot at the time we visited so a lot of animals were in the shad trying to stay cool or sleeping, so keep that in mind when you visit. The staff was helpful educating us about the animals, and when they can they will help get the animals to interact with visitors. There was a Groupon discount available when we visited, but we didn't purchase it since the money goes to the care of the animals. It was $10 for each adult admission, I think the Groupon was $10 for two adult admissions, basically half off. They had the splash pad open for the kids, and there are a couple of covered areas to have a snack or just a break from the sun, and you can reserve picnic tables under the pavilion for a party or gathering. There were two parties going on when we visited so pretty much all of the tables were reserved, but they took pity on us with our 18 month old and let us crash part of one table! They have a vending machine with ice cold waters and sodas, or you can bring your own drinks. We got a great recommendation for a lunch spot from staff in the gift shop, and had a great time here! read more

Just came from there, friendly staff and nice grounds. The animals were well taken care of and they have a camp that teaches kids how to take care of the animals. Nice variety of animals to see, the bobcats were super cool and beautiful wolfs. There is a petting zoo of sorts with 2 hilarious turkeys that area bit older but funny to watch. There are some chickens running around the area as well but they friendly. Check out the conservation of have a chance. read more

Decent zoo (sanctuary) but the enclosures are small, animals are sad, and it needs to be run like a business with more than 1 entry window (with a zootopia sloth operating it) and a 30 minute wait to buy tickets. read more

I loved my afternoon at the HPZS! Not a zoo, but an animal sanctuary housing a variety of animals. Each animal has his or her story posted in front of the habitat. Some were wild animals removed from someone's home; some were taken in when other zoos closed, and some were rescued as cubs when the mother was killed. We lucked out and got to see every animal there except for the mountain lion (rescued from a person's home). Cass the tiger was just finishing lunch, the Mexican Gray Wolves were howling away and pacing the perimeter of their habitat, the wallabys were snacking on cilantro and we got to join Shash the Bear for his lunch hour! The volunteers and keepers were very knowledgable and caring. The facility is extremely well-maintained. I agree with some of the other posters who said the enclosures were small. Especially for the large animals - the two bears and the tiger - it seemed like they didn't have all that much room. My brother and I each made a donation when we left; if everyone who posts about the lack of room made a donation, perhaps the sanctuary would have funding to expand? Just a thought! read more

Great zoo! Has a lot of nice animals. And i wanna add a 6th star if i could for this: There is a blue and hold macaw that usually chills and squawks in its cage but when you wave at him, he waves back with his foot. Talk about a friendly greeting! read more

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary - The macaw that waves with his foot when he sees you wave at him - Zoos Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

I had read about Heritage Park and wanted to visit to see the animals that were there due to rehabilitation or were given up by other places who could no longer care for the animals. It is a small place but has many types of animals. They have several birds such as eagles, ducks (Marmaduck was adorable), hawks and vultures. I love the names of many of the animals. They also have reptiles (some in amazing colors), small mammals such as foxes, lemurs and bobcats. There are large mammals such as mountain lions, bears and wolves. The most amazing animal was Cassie the bengal tiger. She was beautiful! She was not feeling well and the staff was feeding her meat with some medicine to help her feel better. As we stood there so had this low growl the was amazing to hear. The staff who care for the animals truly care about the animals and are very nice and helpful. Stop in the gift shop for a great shirt or gift. We will visit again soon. This is a great place to see the animals up close and learn more about them. You can also adopt an animal to help support the animals and the sanctuary. Stop by! It is worth the visit. read more

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I was pleasantly surprised by this zoological sanctuary! There were many animals that I'd never seen before. The animals were very active and you could see them very well. We spent about an hour going through the zoo. read more

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Came here while visiting Prescott. Cute little zoo my little ones had a blast and loved all the animals. Very reasonable price. If im ever in Prescott again id defiantly go back read more

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This was a delightful surprise. We had never heard of it before looking it up for a road trip. The park is clean and so fun. The animals are so close you can almost touch them. Peacocks wondering around. The staff was informative and friendly and I recommend it for a family. read more

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary - Just wondering around like he owns the place. - Zoos Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

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