Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is now open visit FutureForWildlife.org/reopen for details.
For Outdoor Education programs, visit clevelandmetroparks.com/knowbeforeyougo - Nature Centers remain closed.
For updated closures visit clevelandmetroparks.com/COVID-19.

The RainForest at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo reopens March 2.

Keeper for a Day

Register Are you a middle school, high school or college student thinking about a career with animals? Are you a working adult wondering what it would be like to have a career with animals? If so, the Keeper for a Day program at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is for you. Similar to a job shadowing program, participants will spend the day with animal professionals in the Zoo's Conservation Education Division for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Details

Your day will include hands-on activities working directly with the animals such as preparing their meals, cleaning enclosures, conducting training exercises and providing them with enrichment items to stimulate them both mentally and physically.
Spend the day assisting the keepers that care for the ambassador animals from the Zoo's Get Close animal programs and the Professor Wylde Animal Show.
This exciting program runs year-round. Limited dates available.
The cost is $260 for one adult participant or $520 for one minor participant and accompanying adult or family member of age.
Program length will be five hours from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The minimum age for the program is 12 years old.
Closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Please also bring your own facial covering as guests are required to wear them during their Zoo visit.

Documents

Dates/Times

This exciting program runs year-round on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Program length will be five hours from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Cost

Cost: $260 per person

Minors must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or family member to ensure that the minor is never left unattended during the program in a behind-the-scenes area and that the minor complies with our COVID-19 precautions.

Each program attendee will fully experience and participate in the Keeper for a Day program. By special request, two people from the same family may be able to attend the same date/time. Interested parties should call 216.635.3391.

FAQ

What is the youngest age for a Keeper for a Day participant?

Minimum age is 12 years old to participate. All minors must have a chaperone.

What should I wear?

Closed toed shoes are required due to the nature of the experience of going behind the scenes in animal areas. Weather appropriate, casual clothing is recommended.

After I purchase my program, do I need to do anything before I arrive?

Please email a completed, signed copy of the waiver packet for each attendee to programregistration@clevelandmetroparks.com. Not having your completed waiver forms on file before your arrival will delay the start of your program.

When and where should I arrive for the program?

Guests should arrive at the reception desk in the Reinberger Education Building (the brick building to the left of the Main Entrance to the Zoo) at the designated program start time - 9:00 a.m.

Does the price include admission to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo?

Program attendees are welcome to walk around the Zoo after the program has concluded. A separate entrance ticket is not required for same-day visits.

Are facial coverings required?

Facial coverings are required for all Zoo visitors over the age of six (6).

Will the program still happen if it is raining or snowing?

This education program will occur rain or shine. It is recommended to wear weather appropriate clothing. During colder months, dressing in layers would be appropriate as there are moments spent both indoors and outdoors during the day.