Illustration of a kids crafts scene (ZooBoo)
Family-Friendly Fall Activities

ZooBoo

ZooBoo transforms the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium into a Halloween wonderland for families. Enjoy safe, daytime trick-or-treating, festive parades, and a lively costume contest. It's a perfect opportunity to see the animals get into the spirit with special treats while creating memorable Halloween experiences for all ages.

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What to Expect

Kid-friendly Halloween event with trick-or-treating and animal treats

Event Details

Duration

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM on event days

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Highland Park

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium

Food & Drink

Food and drinks are available for sale on grounds. Guests can bring their own bagged lunch-style food or leave food or belongings in their vehicles (at their own risk) and return to the car to get them throughout the day. Picnic areas are available.

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Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (2/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Festive and fun

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Included with Daytime Admission – Get tickets
  • Parking: Free parking is available in the main parking lot at the Butler Street entrance.
  • Accessibility: Guests are welcome to visit the Zoo in personal wheelchairs or electric mobility scooters. Guests are also welcome to bring strollers or personal wheeled devices like wagons so long as they are under the control of an adult. Please remain on the pathway throughout your visit. All permitted wheeled devices must use the elevator located next to the escalator when entering the park. Visit our Accessibility page to learn more about mobility assistance, including use and rental of wheelchairs and seated electric scooters.
  • Pets: No pets allowed (service animals only)

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to maximize your trick-or-treating time and enjoy the full schedule of activities before the 3 PM end time.
  • Check the schedule for parade and costume contest times to ensure you don't miss these fun events.
  • Consider dressing up your little ones in comfortable costumes that allow for easy movement and visibility, as per the zoo's guidelines.
  • While trick-or-treating is included with admission, be aware that some attractions like the carousel or train may have separate fees.
  • Visit the zoo's website for the most up-to-date information on any specific costume guidelines or event modifications.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Daytime trick-or-treating
  • Halloween parades
  • Costume contests
  • Character meet & greets
  • Animals enjoying Halloween treats

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates and times for ZooBoo?

ZooBoo takes place on Saturdays and Sundays, October 17-25, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Do I need a special ticket for ZooBoo?

No, trick-or-treating and the event activities are included with regular daytime admission to the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. No additional ticket is required.

Can I bring my pet to ZooBoo?

Personal pets are not permitted at the zoo. Only service animals are allowed. Please leave your pets at home.

What is the policy on costumes?

Guests of all ages are welcome to wear costumes. However, for safety, teens and adults should not wear masks that fully cover their faces, and costumes should allow for safe movement through the zoo.

Where can I find more information about the zoo's location and hours?

You can find detailed information about the zoo's location, directions, and operating hours on their website under the 'Plan Your Visit' section.

Tags

family friendlytrick or treatcostume contesthalloween festivalcommunity eventpumpkin patchkids gamesface paintinghalloween parade

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 3, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Halloween Events Near Me editorial team