New York State Zoo at Thompson Park
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Site Rental Information

You can rent the WILDEST spot in town for your next family reunion or company picnic! Whether you rent the entire Zoo for an exclusive evening party or reserve the lawn for a daytime affair - it is sure to be a unique and memorable event.  And it’s easy to plan.  You provide the catering and we’ll provide the fun! Call 315-755-0894 for prices and details.


 


1.    The Zoo lawn area. This area is just inside the zoo, immediately behind the entrance building, and
2.    The Entrance Green.  This area is within the zoo perimeter, in front of the zoo administration and entrance building.

These areas can be rented separately or together.  Both areas can be roped off to provide a private setting for parties and events held during the hours that the Zoo is open to the general public

Rental fee for the Zoo Lawn is $50 per hour.  Admission fees into the zoo are required for all event participants at a half price group rate – Adults $3.00 and children at 1.50.

Rental fee for the Entrance Green is $75.00 per hour and includes use of the classroom.  Admission into the zoo is optional with a half price group admission rate (Adults $3.00 and children at 1.50) for event participants who are interested in touring the zoo.

Rental fees are based on the actual time of the event and do not include time for set up or break down. 

Interested parties can coordinate the rentals of tables, chairs and tents or have the zoo coordinate the rental for a fee of $40 plus the cost of the rental.

Educational programs and guided tours can be arranged at an additional fee.

There are no restrictions on caterers.

If you are interested in serving alcoholic beverages at your event, the only rental option available during operating hours is the Entrance Green of the zoo.  You will also have to apply for a permit from the city parks department.  A copy of the permit is available at http://www.watertown-ny.gov/parks/ConsAlcoPubPlPermit.pdf

Interested parties may also coordinate golfing packages with the Watertown Golf Club at a rate of $25 per person, including fees and use of a cart, or $15 per person, walking the course.

Entire Zoo After Hours (Summer Only)
$200 per hour
Included: admission up to 50 people; use of all public areas of the zoo
*no areas will be "reserved" or prepared for special use*


Indoor Rentals

Gift Shop
$100 per hour
Included: admission up to 50 people;use of patio if rented after normal hours; Educational programs and guided tours available for additional fee
*There will be an additional set up/tear down fee of $25*

Classroom
$50 per hour
Included: admission up to 60 people; use of all tables & chairs currently in classroom; If visitors want to use the zoo admission is half price; Educational programs and guided tours available for additional fee