# The Virginia Zoo Winter Wildlife Safari & Indoor Animal Pavilions

> Place to go for families in the Virginia Beach–Chesapeake–Norfolk area (VA / NC). Times are Eastern Time.

- When: Open on its own schedule
- Where: The Virginia Zoo, 3500 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23504
- Ages: All ages (stroller-friendly paved zoo paths, heated World of Reptiles pavilion, and playground)
- Price: $17.95 adults; $14.95 children (ages 2-11); free for toddlers under 2
- Organizer: The Virginia Zoo & City of Norfolk
- Official page: https://virginiazoo.org/
- Last checked: Thu, Nov 5

Source: Grassy Knees is a directory of real family events, places and programs for kids across major U.S. metro areas, where every listing is researched from the organizer’s own page and shows the date we last checked it. https://grassyknees.com covers 42 metro areas as of Nov 11, 2026, with more added regularly. About: https://grassyknees.com/about
Freshness: listings are re-checked on a daily research run (latest check 2026-11-10), and new events are added as organizers post them. Sell-outs, weather cancellations and time changes show up on the live page first: https://grassyknees.com/virginia-beach/activities/the-virginia-zoo-winter-wildlife-safari-and-indoor-animal-pavilions--listing-6600d6ce19c2e212c90de127

## About

The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk spans 53 beautifully landscaped acres along the Lafayette River, housing more than 700 fascinating animals representing diverse global habitats. Winter is one of the best times to visit the zoo, as many cold-hardy species—including Siberian tigers, red pandas, North American river otters, and African lions—are lively and playful in the crisp air. When temperatures drop, families can duck into several heated indoor viewing pavilions, such as the lush World of Reptiles and Friends, home to giant Aldabra tortoises, venomous snakes, and tropical amphibians. Paved, flat pathways weave past Africa's Okavango Delta, Asia's Trail of the Tiger, and Australia's walk-through kangaroo habitat. With fewer crowds than summer, children get unobstructed front-row views of animal feedings, enrichment sessions, and keeper chats throughout their winter safari adventure.

Family Experience & Accessibility:
• Stroller Accessibility: Wide, level paved pathways connect every exhibit pavilion; stroller rentals (single and double) are available inside the entry plaza.
• Nursing & Rest Spots: Dedicated Nursing Nook located inside the World of Reptiles pavilion with comfortable seating; heated family restrooms with changing stations throughout the park.
• Age Suitability: Universally captivating for all ages from infants and toddlers pointing at vibrant birds to curious elementary schoolers and teens.
• Sensory Tips: Indoor reptile and primate pavilions provide warm, climate-controlled comfort; outdoor areas are open and easy to navigate with minimal bottlenecking on winter days.

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