If you haven’t experienced GloWild at the Zoo, you need to add this to your list!
What is GloWild?
GloWild is a unique lantern festival at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium that runs through December 29. Along a one mile path through the zoo, you’ll experience beautiful lanterns shaped like animals, flowers and dragons. It takes about 90 minutes to walk through the lantern displays and there are many spots along the way to stop and take photos. Time your entrance for sunset so you can experience the lanterns in the dark and still get home before it gets too late.
Admission to the lantern festival is NOT included with standard admission to the zoo. You can buy a combination ticket but be aware that GloWild takes place in the evening after normal zoo hours. Animals will not be visible since it is after hours (although we did spot a couple of elephants in their enclosure when we passed by.)
Admission Cost
GloWild tickets range from $22 – $24. Kids 2 and under get in for free. Tickets can be purchased online and the event is rain or shine.
Who It’s Best For
This is an event perfect for all ages.
Location and Parking
Zoo address is 6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132. You will enter through the main zoo entrance.
Parking is free and there are handicap accessible spots near the entrance.
Restrooms
Restrooms are available at several spots along the route. I made sure to have my kids stop at the restrooms just inside the entrance before we started our walk.
Stroller and Wheelchair Accessibility
Bring your own or rent a stroller, wheelchair, wagon, ECV scooter or an animal-themed electric scooter. ECV scooters should be reserved online at least 24 hours in advance.
Food Policies and Purchase Options
Food and non-alcoholic beverages can be brought in or purchased at the event. There are alcoholic beverage stations located at a couple of spots along the route and the Beastro Cafe inside the front entrance is open as well as the Tuxedo Grill mid-way through the route. We also saw a cart was open to purchase Dippin Dots along the route. This is a cashless event so make sure to bring your credit/debit card.
Other Things to Know
This year’s theme is Legends & Lore, featuring all new lanterns of dinosaurs, pirates, Atlantis, fairy gardens and much more!
To ensure the most magical experience, lanterns will not be lit until sunset, around 7:30 p.m. You can enjoy family friendly activities each night from 6-8 p.m. Don’t miss pumpkin decorating, hayrides, peddle tractors, and more by Helzberg Penguin Plaza, all included with your admission!
Don’t Miss This Hidden Gem
At 6:15 p.m and 7 p.m on Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, you can watch a live acrobat performance in the Beastro Lobby Auditorium at the front of the Zoo. There is an additional show at 8:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
The Sobela Ocean Aquarium is open on Wednesday evenings.
Mom Pro Tip
Bring your own glow bracelets, necklaces, or wands for your kiddos. These are available to purchase at the event, but they are not cheap! If you do decide to buy one at the event, bring a credit or debit card as this is a cashless event.
