Minnesota Zoo

Comments from
Bear Encounter participants

"All of our questions were answered and then some. I already loved and was amazed by the bears, but I leave today knowing and loving so much more."

"This was very up close and personal! I love seeing the bear training and rooftop view of the exhibit with the bears looking up at me. Overall a very good and educational program. I hope more people can take advantage of it because it is worth it.”

How to Register:

Online: A confirmation will be sent to you via email once you have registered online for your desired program (click on the “Register Online” button for the program you are interested in). Questions? Call 952.431.9320.

By Mail: If you need a registration form please click here. Mail-in registrations will receive a confirmation by email.

QUICK LINKS:
Cancellation, Transfer and Weather Policy

Tax benefits of attending Zoo Education programs

Bear Encounters

Are you ready to get a little closer to our three bears? Come join Sadie, Kenai and Haines - the stars of our Russia’s Grizzly Coast exhibit during this interactive education program at the Minnesota Zoo!

June 23 (1 spot left)
July 14 (2 spots left)
July 20 (4 spots left)
August 4 Full
August 11 (3 spots left)

Bear Encounter

During your adventure you will learn about our three bears, their personalities and what makes them special. You will tour behind-the-scenes to see the kitchen where the bears’ meals are prepared daily. Next, you will go to the training window with one of our bear trainers for a truly unique introduction to Sadie, Haines and/or Kenai.

Enrichment is an important part of our bears’ lives and you will experience this first-hand as you give our bears their enrichment items for the day. You will receive a one of a kind piece of artwork created for you by one of our bears. Our bears can’t wait to meet you!

Time: 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
Date: offered on select Saturdays and Sundays.
Ages: minimum 12 years old, participants younger than 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult
Fee: $125 per participant
Group Size: Maximum of four participants, smaller groups may be combined.

If the date you want is full, there is a waiting list option available during registration.

Call 952.431.9320 for more information.

Also check out our Giraffe Encounters, Penguin
Encounters, Sea Otter Encounters and Stingray Feeding Encounters.