We are so excited to offer a couple of animal encounters to give you an up, close experience with some of our animal friends!

Our budgie exhibit has quickly become a guest favorite! Budgie sticks and cups may be purchased at the ticket office. Sticks are $1.50 each or 5 for $5 with a commerative LPG&Z souvenier cup! Don't need another cup... no problem! Simply place the cup in the provided basket on your way out.

Summer of 2022 brought us a unique encounter experience with our tortoises!  Tortoise feedings are seasonally and happen daily at 11, 1, and 3 from April to early October. Our lettuce leaves are locally grown and are available for purchase for $5. 

OPEN NOW: Our biggest animal encounter yet- SLOTHS!  

Reserve your spot at THIS LINK

Slow down and feel the love! ❤️ Beginning Valentine’s Day 2025, fall toe-tally in love with our Sloth Encounters at the Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo!

For $60 per person, you can hang out (literally) with these lovable, laid-back cuties. 🦥

This is a brand new and limited experience, with 2 time slots per day, 10:30 AM and 2 PM with 6 people per time slot.