If you’re looking for a unique adults-only night out in Cincinnati this spring, Zootanical at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is a beautiful way to spend an evening.
Held each year during the Zoo’s spectacular tulip season, Zootanical blends gardens, great food and drinks, and community — all set against one of the most colorful backdrops in the city.
The 2026 event takes place Friday, April 10 from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. and offers guests the chance to explore the Zoo’s gardens while they are in full bloom.
A Night at the Zoo — Just for Adults
Unlike a typical zoo visit, Zootanical is designed specifically for adults. The evening has a relaxed, social atmosphere that makes it perfect for a date night, a night out with friends, or even a unique networking event.
Guests will enjoy strolling through the Zoo while more than 100,000 tulips and other spring flowers are on display throughout the grounds. The colorful gardens make for an especially beautiful setting as the sun begins to set.
What to Expect at Zootanical
The evening centers around celebrating the Zoo’s incredible horticulture program while giving guests a memorable spring experience.
Highlights include:
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A farm-to-table dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients
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Signature cocktails and drinks
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The opportunity to explore the Zoo’s gardens during peak spring bloom
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A presentation from the Zoo’s Director of Horticulture
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A botanical-themed silent auction
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Time to mingle with fellow garden lovers and supporters of the Zoo
Guests will also have the opportunity to see the Asian-inspired garden near the Elephant Trek habitat, one of the newest areas of the Zoo.
Supporting the Zoo’s Gardens
Zootanical also serves an important purpose. The event is the Zoo’s premier botanical fundraiser, and proceeds help support the care and development of the Zoo’s gardens as well as horticulture education programs.
The Cincinnati Zoo is well known not only for its animals but also for its beautiful botanical displays. Events like Zootanical help keep those gardens thriving year after year.
Plan Your Visit
Zootanical 2026
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
April 10, 2026
5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Tickets are limited and the event often sells out, so advance reservations are recommended.
If you’re looking for a spring evening that combines beautiful gardens, great food and drinks, and a chance to support one of Cincinnati’s most beloved institutions, Zootanical is a night worth planning for.
