Inside Tracks Tour Program

Registration for the 2025 Inside Tracks Tour schedule will begin January 21st

Register 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.

Details

Your experience will include a private tour for up to 6 people
This exciting program runs year-round. Limited dates available.
Program length will be 90 minutes from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
The minimum age for the program is 5 years old.
Closed-toe shoes are mandatory.
Tour includes one (1) voucher per participant to experience the Circle of Wildlife Carousel OR Eagle Zip Adventure at the end of the tour.

Dates/Times

Tours are available year-round on select Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Click the “Register” button in the upper right-hand corner of this page to see list of available dates.

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 seven (7) 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, at the designated tour time - 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.