Facilities/Rentals

So many spectacular venues: one is perfect for you.

Come tour the Zoo with us and see for yourself. With 53 lush acres, the options are endless -- and quite welcoming.

Click here to download Private Event Pricing & Facilities (pdf).

Large Event Pavilion
In the heart of the Zoo, the versatility of our open-air 60'x 120' pavilion makes a delightful staging area for grand-scale events. It's perfect for elegant seated dinners, dancing or live entertainment. With full access to power and water, you can enjoy all the amenities of an indoor venue, but with a fresh perspective. The pavilion can accommodate up to 500 seated guests. Rental includes free admission for up to 500 guests.

Event Field
Adjacent to the Event Pavilion, this spacious field provides additional space for amusements, activities or even additional tents to support your event. Access to power and water is available.

New! Orangutan Veranda
Located at the entrance of the new Asia – Trail of the Tiger exhibit, this venue offers a spectacular view of the brand new Orangutan exhibit. Set the mood for your private event at the Zoo with one of the most exotic backdrops in town! Perfect for cocktail parties and receptions of up to 300 people, you and your guests can enjoy the view from a central location in the Zoo. The Veranda is available for after-hours events only. (Seating space is limited.)

New! Burong Passage
Follow the Trail of the Tiger to Burong Passage, the Asia – Trail of the Tiger exit plaza, where you and up to 300 guests will be surrounded by the Burong Gateway Statue, the new and scenic Tiger and Asian Otter exhibits, magnificent and sustainable wooden columns and stunning horticultural design. A perfect setting for an evening soirée or reception, this location is available for after-hours events only. (Seating space is limited.)

New! Siamang Island Overlook
Spend your event overlooking one of the Zoo’s most fascinating exhibits – Siamang Island - with up to 150 guests. Enjoy a spacious deck with a scenic view of the Siamang exhibit and the beautiful Fountain Plaza. Located in the heart of the Asia – Trail of the Tiger exhibit, this venue can be combined with the Malayan Grotto venue for an even larger event. This location is available for after-hours events only.

New! Malayan Grotto
Add some pizzazz to your private event by hosting it in the most unique Zoo location! Designed specifically for the Virginia Zoo, this exclusive replica cave displays stalactites and stalagmites, in-ground lighting and extraordinary views of the new Tiger and Orangutan exhibit. Included with this location is additional space on the boardwalk outside of the Grotto, providing additional space for you and your guests! This location can host up to 150 guests and is available for after-hours events only.

Africa Boardwalk
Big event? Make Africa your dramatic backdrop. You can actually stage your event on our Boardwalk, an elevated pathway with two covered overlooks that winds through animal habitats some 17 feet above the lush grounds below. The Boardwalk is available for after-hours events only and accommodates up to 50 seated guests. Rental includes free admission for 50 guests.

Fountain Plaza
A spacious location for up to 300 guests, the Fountain Plaza is a spectacular venue that greets your guests as soon as they enter the Zoo! Located at the Zoo entrance and surrounded by benches and beautiful gardens, this location showcases our Kugel ball and seasonal fountains. Available for after-hours events only.

Goode Train Station
The perfect location for a birthday celebration, this train station is located on the train tracks, with a scenic view of our African Plains exhibits. The Goode Train Station can accomodate up to 30 guests.

Classrooms and Conference Rooms

We also offer a variety of special rooms for meetings, classes, retreats, training sessions, lectures and conferences.

• Education Classroom in the Education and Visitor Center can accommodate up to 50 seated guests. Rental includes free admission for up to 50 guests.
  
• Education Center near the Zoo's Barnyard is an amphitheater-style room that includes small stage and podium. Bleacher-style seating accommodates up to 75 guests. Rental includes free admission for up to 75 guests.
  
• Visitor Center Large Conference Room includes a small white board and projection screen. Conference table and chairs can accommodate up to 20 guests. Rental includes free admission for up to 20 guests.

For assistance and 2011 policy information, call Kelsey Bethune, Special Events Coordinator at (757) 441-2374, ext. 253. Asia venue locations are not available for event booking until May 2011.

Please be aware that we are unable to accept bookings for third party events.