Raise a Glass to Anything But Ordinary

The Reserve, the Zoo’s events pavilion nestled in the African Savanna, can be customized for galas, events or fundraisers. Whether you’re hosting a summer luau or holiday-themed party, this tented, outdoor venue is available for daytime or evening rental. With chilled air piped in during warmer seasons, and tent sides and heaters available for winter events, the pavilion becomes a year-round destination. The Reserve overlooks the 10-acre expanse of the African Savanna habitat, home to our giraffes, hippos and rhinos, to name a few.

This distinctive room-in-the-round is an upscale option for everything from cocktail parties to seated dinners. Walls lined with bamboo are surrounded by paintings of the African savanna from internationally acclaimed wildlife artist Wilhelm Kuhnert. This beautiful room opens to the natural ambience of the Fort Worth Zoo on the gallery’s tree-shaded deck.

This incredible habitat is also an amazing venue perfect for evening events. Guests can ride the Yellow Rose Express train straight into an old Texas Town, complete with a carousel and petting yard. Classic offerings such as an ice cream parlor, general store and candy shop can be added to the festivities. Plus, you may choose to put amazing creatures like black bears, otters and mountain lions on your guest list.

The Bluebonnet Cafe is a unique and versatile space, perfect for evening receptions and celebrations. Surrounding the cafe, a large deck provides ample space for guests to mingle under the canopy of trees after they arrive in style on the Yellow Rose Express train.

For an event with a wild twist, host your gathering at our Crocodile Cafe and Museum of Living Art (MOLA) Gardens. This lush, green environment lets your guests live it up as critically endangered crocodiles, colorful turtles and a variety of exotic fish species look in on the real party animals.

Located in the center of the Zoo, Picnic Outpost is a great choice for casual gatherings and parties. It’s available for daytime rental and offers an inviting open-air environment where guests can have a great time. Sitting near Waterfowl Walk and just beyond Raptor Canyon, Picnic Outpost allows for enough chirps, quacks, peeps and squawks to create a natural soundtrack.