What happens if it rains or there is severe weather?

All concerts are rain or shine and if the artist performs, tickets will not be refunded. Umbrellas are not permitted in the amphitheater and will be removed from your bags before entry to the Zoo or amphitheater.

The decision to cancel a concert due to severe weather is rarely made in advance, is a last resort, will be made at the very last minute, and can be made after the scheduled start time. Start times may be changed based on weather conditions. The Minnesota Zoo will provide updates on our Music in the Zoo webpage, Facebook page, and via Twitter. You may also call 952.431.9213 after 6:00 pm.

May we visit the Zoo prior to the concert?

Your concert ticket is your admission to the Zoo after 4 p.m. You may come early and visit the Zoo until 6 p.m. when the animal exhibits close.  On July 9 for the Choo Choo Soul concert, free admission is allowed after 2:00 p.m.

If we visit the Zoo prior to the concert, are there any restaurants open for dinner?

Walkabout Grill and World Tacos are open for pre-concert meals and snacks, including adult beverages.

May we bring our own food and beverages?

Food and beverages are for sale at the Zoo. Outside items are prohibited and will be removed from your bag upon entry to the Zoo.

What time does the amphitheater open?

The amphitheater opens for concert seating at 7 p.m., unless otherwise indicated.

Are concert tickets available at the Zoo box office?

The Minnesota Zoo is not a ticket outlet, but may sell tickets the evening of the show if they are available. If a concert is NOT sold out, tickets will be available at the Zoo after 6:30 p.m. the evening of the concert. Please note that there will be a $4 service fee per ticket applied to each order. Service fees are non-refundable.

Where do we park?

There is plenty of parking available in the Zoo parking lots. The parking fee is $7 per vehicle (cash only) for all concertgoers, including Zoo members.

Is photography or recording permitted?

No cameras with a removable or ultrazoom lens, video equipment, or recording equipment are allowed without advance written permission. Some artists will prohibit all photography without advance notice. You will be asked to return equipment that is not permitted to your vehicle.  

Is the amphitheater accessible for people with mobility disabilities?

Accessible seats are available and should be selected during the ticket purchase process. If you have mobility issues and need assistance getting to the amphitheater, please inquire at Guest Services at the ticket booth.

How many people does the amphitheater seat?

The amphitheater features reserved seating for 1,450 guests. All seating is wooden bench stadium style, with the exception of box seats. Seating Chart

Can we bring seat cushions to sit on?

Personal seat cushions are allowed. However, it must be less than 18 inches across and if there is a back, it must not impact the space of the person seated behind you.

May we bring our children to the concerts?

Yes, the concerts are family friendly. All guests older than the age of one will be charged full price and will need to purchase a seat. Strollers are not permitted in the amphitheater.

Are box seats available?

Yes, we do offer box seats for selected concerts. There is an additional fee for these box seats and they must be purchased through Etix.

Is smoking permitted?

Effective April 1, 2014, the Minnesota Zoo is a completely smoke-free facility and smoking is not allowed anywhere on Zoo property. This policy is in effect for both public hours and all after-hours events, including the Music in the Zoo concert series. No smoking on Minnesota Zoo property includes the use of lighted cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or other smoking materials, including e-cigarettes.

Will we be permitted to leave the venue and return?

No re-entry is allowed after the performance begins.

May we tailgate prior to the concert?

Tailgating is not permitted in the Zoo parking lot

What items are prohibited from the concerts?

Before entry in to the Zoo, and again before entry to the amphitheater, all bags will be inspected and the following items will be removed:

• Umbrellas
• Food
• Beverages
• Alcohol
• Prohibited cameras and audio devices (see above)