Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Santa Visits at Roger Williams Park Zoo
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Roger Williams Park Zoo with a special visit from Santa Claus. This beloved annual event offers families a wonderful opportunity to meet Santa amidst the zoo's captivating animal exhibits. Beyond the festive cheer, explore the zoo's diverse collection of over 100 species, from majestic elephants to playful red pandas, and enjoy unique attractions like the zip ride and train.
What to Expect
Meet Santa at an accredited zoo with diverse animal exhibits.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Free parking available in the Zoo’s main parking lots and along the roads within the public park.
- Accessibility: The Zoo covers about 40 acres, and the path through Zoo grounds is slightly over a mile long. It’s mostly wheelchair-accessible, though it does include hills and uneven or unpaved terrain.
- Pets: Pets, emotional support and therapy animals are not allowed inside the Zoo for the safety and well-being of our guests as well as our Zoo animals. However, the Zoo will allow service animals for all disabilities on grounds as outlined by the ADA standards.
Other Christmas Events Near Providence
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, children, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, educational, family-friendly
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Visit with Santa Claus
- Explore zoo exhibits
- Enjoy zip ride and train excursion
Location
Event Details
Duration
The average length of stay is three hours.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Food & Drink
There are two main food concessions: Tuskers, located near Africa’s Jambo Junction, and Nourish 401, located in the upper Zoo. There is also Slice, located in Jambo Junction, as well as various mobile carts located throughout the Zoo.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to maximize your time with Santa and to explore the zoo's exhibits before they close.
- Check the zoo's website for any specific Santa visit times or reservation requirements, as these can vary.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo grounds are extensive, and plan to spend several hours to see both Santa and the animals.
- Consider visiting on a weekday if possible to potentially avoid larger crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the magical moment with Santa, but be mindful of any photography restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the zoo's operating hours?
The zoo is open Thursday through Monday from 10 am to 4 pm, with the last entry at 3:30 pm. They are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Is parking available and is it free?
Yes, free parking is available in the zoo's main parking lots and along the roads within the public park.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, outside food is allowed, but guests are not permitted to feed the animals. Picnic tables are available.
What is the pet policy?
Pets, emotional support animals, and therapy animals are not allowed. Service animals are permitted.
Is the zoo accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?
Yes, strollers and manual wheelchairs are available for rent. The zoo grounds are mostly wheelchair-accessible, though some terrain may be uneven.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.