Behind the Scenes at the Giraffe Barn

Take a look behind the scenes!

TBZ is proud to offer this education program where guests get a unique look at some of their favorite animals, learn valuable conservation education, and meet the keepers that make it all possible. Between December 2025 and February 2026, all Behind the Scenes programs take place at the Giraffe Barn.

Behind the Scenes Tours and Animal Encounters are for ages 6 and up only, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.  All members of the party must purchase a ticket. Photographs are not permitted, except when directed; all attendees will sign a photo waiver prior to entering. Face coverings may be required in some facilities during the tour.

All Behind the Scenes Tours Meet at the Amphitheater in front of Reptile House. Please bring your confirmation email to one of the ticket booths in order to enter the zoo.

This building you will enter contains stairs. If you have questions or concerns about accessibility please contact us so that we may better address your needs at 973-731-5800 ext.103 or [email protected].

Your 2025 program ticket grants you Zoo admission before and/or after the tour. Tickets for 2026 programs no longer include zoo admission. Tour attendees should meet Tour Staff at the designated location 10-15 minutes prior to the start of the tour. Tours start promptly at the agreed-upon time; late arrivals may lose part of the tour by being late, or lose the entire tour without refund. Tours will commence regardless of weather, unless cancelled by the Zoo due to unsafe conditions for our animals, staff, or guests. If we cancel a tour due to weather we will notify you as soon as possible and will reschedule a date and time. Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions and for walking around the zoo. Tour and Program guests do not enter the exhibits or touch the animals. In some cases, animals will not be in the building during behind the scenes tours.

Cancellations or Rescheduling: Cancellations may be made at least 7 days prior to the scheduled program date and time; no refunds will be offered less than 7 days prior to the scheduled date. Cancellations or rescheduling may be made by contacting the Education Department at 973-731-5800 ext.103 or [email protected].