Zoo New England

We can allow you into your venue 30 minutes to an hour ahead of your scheduled time. Just leave all the trash on the tables and keep what you want to take with you. Let the Rentals Department do the cleaning for you so you and your guests can enjoy the Zoo!

What items am I not allowed to bring in to the Zoo? Why?

Straws, balloons, throwing objects, inflatable’s and other decoration and game items are not allowed inside the Zoo under any circumstances. They can potentially harm our animals so please help us protect them and don’t bring them in! If you have a question about an item, please call prior to your event.

I’m having a birthday party, what is included in the time that I rent a space? Can we come to the Zoo at anytime on the day of the party?

The time that you rent out the venue with Zoo New England is the time for you and your guests to be together celebrating – singing, eating, etc. Depending on your specific event, mascot appearances and animal encounters will also happen during this time. The admissions tickets are good for the entire day of your party so feel free to walk around and explore before and after your event! You are welcome to arrive at the Zoo at 10:00 if you purchased advance tickets from us. However, we do encourage you to use your Zoo membership to receive access to the Zoo year round – for free!

Can I bring my own decorations into the Zoo?

Yes, you can. However, in consideration of the safety of our animal collection no balloons, streamers or confetti are allowed in the Zoo at any time.

Can I see the table décor and or birthday space the Zoo has to offer?

Absolutely! We have standard decorations we use and you are welcome to compliment those with your own if you choose. Please make arrangements with our Private Events Department to stop by and see the decorations and/or space we have available.

When are Birthday parties allowed?

Party times are offered 7 days a week from 10:30 to 3:00 during the winter (Oct 1st – March 31st) and 10:30 to 5:00 during the summer (April 1st – Sept 30th) Party times book fast, so we recommend at least 2 months in advance.

Is there a time minimum to rent a venue?

Do you provide refrigeration for food or any storage?

We are very sorry, but Zoo New England does not offer any refrigerators space or storage of your supplies. We do allow coolers to be brought into the Zoo.

I’m a member. Do I receive a discount on rental space?

Do you guarantee my rental date?

We cannot guarantee your date and time until we have received your deposit (which can be done over the phone with a credit card).

How do I book a rental space?

Please fill out the Rental Intake Form and fax, mail or drop this sheet by the Zoo with your deposit. If you have any questions you can reach us 617-989-2009, 617-989-0113 or e-mail us at rentals@zoonewengland.com or fax us at 617-989-2025.

Can I bring in a grill for a picnic?

Sorry, no public grilling is allowed on Zoo grounds. Only a licensed caterer can bring a professional grill on grounds to cook for a private event.

Can someone assist me in bringing items to my venue?

A member of the Rentals Department will be on hand to meet you and help you settle into the venue. They will be checking in on you throughout the event but will not be at the venue for the entirety of the event.

What is an animal encounter?

An animal encounter is when a zookeeper comes into your event with an animal and allows the party goers to learn about and possibly interact with the visiting animal. We must have a 2 week advance notice for this selection…there are no exceptions!

Can I choose the animal that comes to my party?

We cannot guarantee a specific animal will visit your party; however we can assure you that if your birthday child is uncomfortable or frightened by a particular animal – it will not be at your party. Lot’s of factors including weather, animal availability and availability of zookeepers go into deciding which animal is appropriate to bring on any certain day.

How do I get admissions tickets to my guests?

One option is to hand tickets out to your guests as they RSVP. If there’s not enough time for that, we ask that someone from your party meet your guests at one of the gates and hand tickets to them before they enter. Please let guests turn in the tickets themselves in order to keep the line moving as efficiently as possible. We cannot hold tickets at the gate or create a guest list. If you choose to have us send you admission tickets they will not be mailed until your deposit has been received.

When do I make my final payment?

Your first invoice goes out the next business day once an accurate count of admissions tickets and items added on have been recorded. You’ll receive one each week for as long as you have an outstanding balance. If you’re not receiving these invoices, please call to confirm that we have the correct address.

I want to bring in food for the adults for the birthday party. Will I still be charged the 15% surcharge for outside food?

Only if your event is being catered and served to your guests. You’re welcome to bring in your own food for the event or ask about pricing and let us bring the food to you.