Animal Encounter
GIRAFFE ENCOUNTER
Experience a one-on-one Interaction with our pair of male Masai giraffes, Joshua and Tatu, along with a special keeper chat on the private lower giraffe feeding deck at the First Commonwealth Federal Credit Union Giraffe Barn.
RACCOON ENCOUNTER
Want to learn more about one of our native mammals? Come spend time with our ambassador raccoon, Meeko! This misunderstood species is curious and loves to explore. Book this un-fur-getable experience now!
OTTER ENCOUNTER
Experience a private interaction with our North American River Otters, Luani and Piper! When you book your own private encounter you will be invited to come to the Zoo before operating hours and assist an otter keeper with preparing Lehigh Valley Health Network Otter Stadium for the day.
SLOTH ENCOUNTER
Ever wonder how it would feel to hang around with a sloth? Come slow down your day the sloth way with Bean, our Linneaus’ two-toed sloth. Don’t forget your cameras for this once in a lifetime opportunity!
PENGUIN ENCOUNTER
Learn all about our African Penguins with an interactive, private encounter at the Jaindl Penguin Pavilion! During this one-of-a-kind, 40-minute experience, you will learn about this endangered species of remarkable birds, discuss conservation issues they face and interact up close with our colony.
WEST AFRICAN CROWNED CRANE ENCOUNTER
Has life been dull? Then add some color to your day by joining us for an encounter program with our beautiful, and quite charismatic West African crowned crane, Beaker! During this program, participants will meet this ambassador whose personality is as colorful as his plume.
REPTILE ENCOUNTER
Are you or someone you know a reptile enthusiast? Then join us for a personalized experience to meet some of our ambassador reptile collection! Come slither over and book now.
SKUNK ENCOUNTER
You can find them all over Pennsylvania, maybe even in your own backyard, but how much do you really know about striped skunks? Come learn all about these native mammals as you spend time with our ambassador skunks, Tonks and Fleur!
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Become a member
Get exclusive Lehigh Valley Zoo access when you become a member! Enjoy free admission and parking, special members-only events, discount on retail and dining, and more — plus, members don’t need to make advanced reservations! Membership pays for itself by your third visit!
What's next
CAA Phase 2
Children’s Activity Area development is moving into Phase 2—breaking ground in 2026 as the next chapter takes shape.
A bag of coffee with the Bird Friendly seal is backed by years of scientific research by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, and the seal is considered the gold standard in eco-friendly and organic farming.