During the summer months in Central Florida, the best time to explore might just be after the sun goes down—and there’s no better place to do it than the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. If you’re looking for unforgettable nighttime outdoor Orlando activities, the Sanford Zoo has your wild side covered.
From kids-only fun to flashlight tours and exciting evening events, let the real adventure begin after-hours. Here are some of the ways you can enjoy nighttime outdoor Orlando activities at the Zoo!
If you’re looking for things to do in Orlando with kids, Kids Night Out is a special evening designed just for kids ages 5-12. Drop the kiddos off at 6:30 p.m. and let them dive into a night of fun complete with close-up animal encounters, games, crafts, snacks, and a guided flashlight tour of the Zoo. While you enjoy your own night out, your kids will be making unforgettable memories—wildly but safely! For more information, click here.
Grab your flashlight and get ready to see the best Zoo in Florida after dark. Night Hike at the Zoo lets you experience the sights and sounds of nocturnal life at the Zoo for an after-hours adventure. Enjoy up-close animal encounters in the Discovery Center, then set out on a guided flashlight tour and discover the wonders of the Zoo after dark. This adventure is family friendly and is perfect for kids 5 and older. Be sure to register early—spots fill up fast. For more information, click here.
One of the most popular Orlando family activities during the summer months is Sunset at the Zoo, presented by Orlando Health. On the fourth Friday of each month from May through September, the Zoo reopens at 5 p.m. and offers wild fun until the sun goes down. The popular summer tradition offers guests of all ages the chance to experience the Zoo after hours, with extra time to explore.
In addition to the after-hours fun, Sunset at the Zoo spotlights a different culture each month, featuring live entertainment, food trucks, local vendors, and activities that celebrate the diverse communities of Central Florida.
The event is also the most affordable way to visit the Zoo. Tickets are only $6 per entry when purchased in advance and $8 at the gate. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
Even when the weather cools down, there’s still so much to do at the Zoo after dark. During Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, guests can stroll the 3/4-mile loop around the Zoo and enjoy dazzling lanterns illuminated by thousands of LED lights with interactive elements, all celebrating traditional Asian lantern festivals. The popular holiday event runs from 6 to 10 p.m. on select nights at the Zoo from November to January. Stay tuned for 2025 dates and information!
Whether you’re looking for a night out with the family, a cool experience for the kids, or an exciting evening event, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens has your after-dark plans covered. There are plenty of nighttime outdoor Orlando activities at the Zoo, so grab your family and friends and let the adventures begin when the sun goes down!
