Get in the Inside Track with a behind the scenes experience at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Join Zoo staff for a unique 90-minute program that includes inspirational stories about how building relationships with our animals helps us to provide top-notch care and learn about the positive impacts our conservation efforts are having on the planet. Inside Track tours offer the opportunity to explore parts of the Zoo in a vehicle with minimal steps. During this tour, you may experience close encounters with animals, see a training or care session and visit animal holding areas. Stops are dependent on animal availability and tours take place in all weather conditions. This is a fun and educational experience you don’t want to miss.
Registration for 2025 Inside Track tours is now open.
Please note that in order to receive the member discount for your purchase, your membership must be valid through the date you are registering for. If your membership has an expiration prior to the tour date you would like to purchase, please contact Membership at 216.635.3329.
Details
Inside Tracks is a unique, behind-the-scenes experience for up to six (6) people focusing on how Cleveland Metroparks Zoo provides exceptional animal care. During the 90-minute tour, participants will hear inspirational animal stories and learn about the positive impacts of the Zoo’s conservation efforts. This tour offers the opportunity to explore parts of the Zoo in a vehicle with minimal steps and experience up-close encounters with animals.
- Program length is 90 minutes from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
- The minimum age for the program is five (5) years old. All minors must be accompanied by an adult chaperone.
- Closed-toe shoes are mandatory.
- Stops are dependent on animal availability.
- Tour includes one (1) voucher per participant to experience the Circle of Wildlife Carousel OR Eagle Zip Adventure at the end of the tour.
- Tour runs year-round.
Dates/Times
Tours are available year-round on select Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
We offer one tour time slot per day that occurs from 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
This driving tour will explore parts of the Zoo with stops at three (3) of the following behind-the-scenes areas. Stops are pre-determined by Zoo staff as animal health and other area concerns dictate.
- Ambassador Animals at Innovation Station
- Tortoises or turtles at Sarah Allison Steffee Center for Zoological Medicine
- Wilderness Trek
- Koalas at Gumleaf Hideout
Ride voucher: At the conclusion of the tour, each participant will be given one (1) ride voucher that can be used at the Circle of Wildlife Carousel OR Eagle Zip Adventure. Present the voucher at the carousel to redeem. Ride availability is weather dependent; voucher is valid for one full year from program date.
Cost
- Members: $400
- Non-Members: $450
Cost includes up to six (6) program participants per tour. Each participant will be given a voucher to experience the Circle of Wildlife Carousel OR Eagle Zip Adventure at the end of the tour.
FAQ
WHAT IS THE YOUNGEST AGE FOR A TOUR PARTICIPANT?
Minimum age is 5 years old to participate, no exceptions. All minors must have a chaperone.
HOW DO I BOOK A BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR?
Book online at least 14 days prior to the day of your visit to reserve spaces.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Closed-toe shoes are required due to the nature of the experience of going behind the scenes in animal areas. Weather appropriate, casual clothing is recommended.
WHEN AND WHERE SHOULD I ARRIVE FOR THE TOUR?
Guests should arrive at the Zoo’s Guest Resource Center, located just inside the Main Entrance to the left across from the Gift Shop, 10 minutes prior to the start of the tour. Tour will begin promptly at 9:30 a.m.
DOES THE TOUR PRICE INCLUDE ADMISSION TO CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO?
Yes, but only after the tour has concluded. Zoo members can use their Cleveland Zoological Society membership pass to gain entry to the Zoo. A separate entrance ticket is not required.
WILL THE TOUR STILL HAPPEN IF IT IS RAINING OR SNOWING?
The Inside Tracks tour will occur rain or shine. In cases of inclement weather, an enclosed cart or vehicle will be used.
HOW DO I REDEEM THE RIDE VOUCHER?
Each participant will receive one (1) voucher to experience the Circle of Wildlife Carousel OR Eagle Zip Adventure at the end of the tour, weather permitting. Vouchers should be redeemed at the Circle of Wildlife Carousel ticket booth and will be valid for one year from the month the program took place.