Planning Your Visit to Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary: Everything You Need to Know

Direction signs at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott Arizona showing zoo areas and exit. — Direction signs help visitors navigate different areas of Heritage Park Zoo in Prescott.

This isn’t a typical big-city zoo—it’s a non-profit wildlife sanctuary focused on rescuing and caring for animals that can’t return to the wild. You’ll find over 150–175 animals from around the world, each with a real backstory.

Tayra animal information sign at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott Arizona. — Educational signage shares details about the tayra and its natural habitat.

The setting is surprisingly scenic too: a compact 10-acre park near Willow Lake with picnic areas, a playground, and even a seasonal splash pad—great if you’re traveling with kids.

Walking paths and exhibit areas at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott Arizona. — Shaded walking paths connect different animal exhibits throughout the zoo.

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary Ticket Prices (2026)

While historical prices were lower, the current rates for 2026 special events and standard entry typically range as follows:

Category	Price
Adults (13–64)	$16
Seniors (65+) / Military / Students	$15
Children (3–12)	$12
Children (Under 3)	FREE
Members (from $50/yr.)	FREE

Red-tailed hawk aviary enclosure at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott Arizona. — A red-tailed hawk rests inside its aviary at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott, Arizona.

Pro Tip: Look out for Community Appreciation Day on Saturday, April 25, 2026, where admission is FREE for all ages from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Best Timing for Your Visit

Operating Hours: In April, the zoo transitions from winter to summer hours. Typically, it is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Winter/Spring schedule) or 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM starting in May.

Heritage Park Zoo open daily hours sign showing 10 AM to 4 PM in Prescott Arizona. — Heritage Park Zoo is open daily, typically from 10 AM to 4 PM.

April Events: Eggstravaganza (April 5, 2026): A zoo-wide egg hunt and Easter treats for the animals.
- Breakfast with the Animals (April 11, 2026): A unique opportunity to dine near the exhibits before the crowds arrive.
Best Time of Day: Arrive right at opening. Animals like the mountain lions, black bears, and wolves are most active in the cooler morning hours.

Bobcat habitat enclosure at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary with climbing structures. — The bobcat enclosure features natural elements and enrichment structures for rescued wildlife.

Best Season:
- Spring & fall: ideal weather + active animals.
- Summer: go early (Arizona heat!).

Tips for a Great Experience at Heritage Park Zoo

1. Photography Focus

As someone who enjoys photography, you’ll find the Bird of Prey exhibit particularly rewarding. The enclosures for bald eagles and vultures offer great lighting and clear sightlines. The big cat enclosures are also prime spots for dramatic shots, especially during morning feedings.

Daily animal talks and feeding schedule board at Heritage Park Zoo Prescott Arizona. — Check the daily schedule for animal talks and feeding sessions during your visit.

Consider booking:

Behind-the-scenes photo tours.
Breakfast with the animals.
Evening or after-hours events.

2. Beat the Arizona Sun

Even in April, the Prescott sun can be intense. Wear a hat and sunscreen, and bring a refillable water bottle. There are several “ramadas” (shaded picnic areas) where you can take a break.

Alpaca at petting zoo area in Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary Prescott Arizona. — The petting zoo area offers close-up encounters with friendly animals like alpacas.

What to bring:

Water + sunscreen (especially summer).
Comfortable walking shoes.
Swimsuits for kids (if splash pad is open).

3. Pack a Picnic

The sanctuary is very picnic-friendly. While there are concessions available, many visitors prefer to bring their own lunch to enjoy at the tables near the playground.

4. Don’t Miss the “Special Extras”

Splash Pad: If you are traveling with family, the kids will want their swimsuits for the splash pad.
Animal Feedings: Check the daily schedule at the entrance for zookeeper talks; these are the best times to see the animals up close and learn their rescue stories.

Family tips:

The zoo is very stroller-friendly.
Kids will love the playground + interactive areas.
Picnic spots make it easy to take breaks.

Kiwanis Korner sign at Heritage Park Zoo Prescott Arizona family-friendly area. — Kiwanis Korner is a family-friendly section designed for kids and interactive experiences.

Even though the sanctuary is compact, there’s plenty to see.

Know What Makes This Place Unique

Unlike major zoos, this sanctuary focuses on:

Rescue & rehabilitation, not entertainment.
Animals with real stories (injured, abandoned, or illegal pets).
Conservation programs like the Mexican Gray Wolf recovery effort.

That means animals may not always be visible—they’re given space and privacy.

Wildlife enclosure habitat at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary with natural climbing structures. — Animal habitats are designed with natural elements to support enrichment and activity.

Must-visit areas:

Large mammals (lynx, mountain lion, black bear rescues).
Wallaby Walk-About (semi-open experience).
Petting zoo + kids’ play zone.
Reptile house (one of the largest public collections in the area).

Heritage Park Zoo entrance area and animal food preparation building in Prescott Arizona. — The entrance area of Heritage Park Zoo includes visitor facilities and behind-the-scenes spaces.

Plan about 1.5–3 hours for a full visit.

Quick Planning Checklist

Buy tickets online (or check for free-entry days).
Arrive early for best animal activity.
Plan 2–3 hours minimum.
Check event calendar before visiting.
Bring water, sunscreen, and snacks.

Coming soon sign for new baby bear habitat at Heritage Park Zoo Prescott Arizona. — A new baby bear habitat is coming soon to Heritage Park Zoo.

Final Take

If you’re looking for a low-key, meaningful wildlife experience, this is a perfect stop. It’s less about big crowds and flashy exhibits—and more about connecting with animals and their stories.

Collared peccary javelina information board at Heritage Park Zoo Prescott Arizona. — Learn about the collared peccary, also known as javelina, at Heritage Park Zoo.

Heritage Park Zoo Location and Contacts

Address: 1403 Heritage Park Rd, Prescott, AZ 86301
Phone: (928) 778-4242
Website: heritageparkzoo.org
Donate: Deputy Director at 928-778-4242 ext. 23; or email rgardner@HeritageParkZoo.org