Kid Zoo Camp

Have you ever wondered how animals in the wild get the nutrition that they need? Campers will get to discover what a “Food Chain” is. While they explore the Zoo they will also learn how, within an ecosystem, some species help while other species hinder the availability of proper nutrition. This camp is designed for kids wanting to learn and experience the world of animals with games and hands-on fun. This camp is for Grades 1-3. One adult must accompany each child and is included in the camp cost. Admission to the Zoo and snacks are part of this camp! Pre-registration is required.

Junior Zoo Keeping Camp

Did you know that ALL animals have 4 things in common? Would you like to know what those things are? Campers at our Junior Zoo Keeper Camp will learn these common traits as well as many traits that are unique to specific species. This summer camp will give young animal lovers an opportunity to experience the wonders of wildlife and nature in fun and exciting ways. The Junior Zookeeper Camp is designed for Grades 4-6. The cost is $85.00 per child ($75.00 for members). Pre-Registration is required. Lunch, a water bottle, and a t-shirt are included!

Interpreter Guided Tour

Become immersed in the Historic Forestville experience by joining an interpreter on a guided tour and hear stories of people who lived in the town. Tours through the site take about 45-60 minutes and travel through the site's outdoor spaces as well as the residence, historic general store, and barns.

Free Admission Day

Four days a year, the Minnesota Historical Society will provide FREE admission to its historic sites and museums! Take this opportunity to learn more about our state's history, at no cost to you.

Free admission dates for the 2024 - 2025 season:

• June 22, 2024
• September 21, 2024
• January 11, 2025
• April 26, 2025

The historic sites and museums that usually have an admission fee but will be FREE on these days include:

METRO

July 4th Enrichment Event

Watch Pine Grove Zoo's animal family enjoy special themed enrichment. Enrichment is designed to provide entertainment and increase animals natural behaviors.
This event is free with paid admission.

Safari Adventure

Looking for something fun to do with your preschooler or kindergartener? The Safari Adventure will inspire your child by building connections to nature all while learning about animals in our world through storytelling, crafts, and exciting animal encounters! Each date will have different themes and new adventures. One adult must accompany each child and is included in the cost. Admission to the Zoo and snacks are also included! Pre-registration is required, and spots are limited, so sign up today!

Porcupine Prance Dance Class at the Zoo

Ever want to dance at the Zoo? Well... we're offering our first ever dance class at the zoo!! For kids ages 3-9 we're going to move and groove at the zoo. With the help of instructors from Tippi Toes, we're going to learn some fun new dance moves and shake your wild side! Friday, June 21st at 11:00am, the class will last 30-45 minutes in our new Lions Den. The cost is only $35 per dancer. Make sure you get registered today!

Flint Knapping Demonstration with Xoloti Bembe Ek (Alex Ek)

Learn how early hunters created arrowheads for their spears or arrows by observing a flintknapper demonstrate the craft. Xoloti Bembe Ek (Alex Ek) will offer a close up look at the process of creating stone projectile points and discuss their use.

After the demonstration, try your own hand at knapping!

Concert on the Lawn

Join us for a FREE Concert on the Lawn at Linden Hill featuring Minnesota-based musicians, Jeff Brooks and Andrea Lind. Jeff is known for performing crowd favorites from artists like John Prine, James Taylor and John Denver along with original music like his hit song, "Minnesota Morning." This concert will be a family affair as Jeff will be joined by his daughter, Andrea Lind, who has been performing alongside her father for many years.

Animal Tracks of the Prairie

Learn about the mammal species of our prairie by examining tanned hides, skulls, and other bones.

Visitors will have the opportunity to work up close and personal with nature by making a plaster cast of an animal track.

One of our interpreters will provide a brief lecture on local prairie species and assist in making track casts.