Ready for Wild Encounters?

Step into the woods and discover the stories hidden within nature at Zoo Knoxville’s Tales from the Trail animal encounter.

Inspired by Appalachian storytelling and the wildlife of East Tennessee, this experience features rotating ambassador animals like owls, snakes, raccoons, skunks, birds, and more while our animal care team shares fascinating facts, conservation messages, and the important role these animals play in the natural world. Every visit offers a chance to uncover something new along the trail.

At Max’s Aviary, guests are invited to experience a unique, dynamic interaction with our vibrant macaws. Our staff will present about a variety of unique natural behaviors and communication skills that these birds possess, while also sharing details about how to protect rainforests. The aviary’s open design allows guests to watch the birds climb and play freely. This immersive experience fosters a deeper appreciation for these colorful creatures!

Dive into fun with our resident river otters Clayton, Reed, and Pascal, champions of clean water! Did you know that otters were extinct in Tennessee just a few decades ago? At our Otter Encounter, you’ll discover how to safeguard otter habitats and make a splash in conservation efforts.

Step into the wayback machine to hear about Big Al, an Aldabra Giant Tortoise who shell-a-brates over 50 years here at Zoo Knoxville. Learn the natural history of this gentle giant and his compatriots, as well as Big Al’s personal history in human care. At over 150 years old (and that’s human years!), he has a lot of stories to share. Learn how conservation has changed over the years and the current efforts to protect this unique species.

Step into the wild world of our gorilla and chimpanzee families! Hang out with our Great Ape caretakers and get the inside scoop on these fascinating family dynamics. Plus, learn how recycling your electronics can be a game-changer for their habitat!

At the Ostrich Encounter, guests are invited to experience an up-close and unforgettable interaction with the world’s largest bird. Our animal care team will share fascinating insights about ostrich behavior, speed, nesting habits, and the unique adaptations that help them thrive in the wild. You’ll learn how these powerful, curious birds use their incredible eyesight and strong legs to survive on the African savanna, while also discovering how Zoo Knoxville supports wildlife conservation efforts around the globe.

Get a front-row seat as the powerful lions or intelligent baboons show off their skills in a special encounter! Watch them engage in enrichment activities that highlight their social dynamics. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the world of these incredible predators and how we keep them thriving!

Get nose-to-horn with our two incredible white rhinos during this exciting daily encounter! Hear amazing stories and fun facts from the expert who cares for them, and learn what makes these powerful yet gentle giants so special. It’s your chance to connect with one of the planet’s most iconic species like never before!

At Zoo Knoxville’s daily Red Panda Encounter, you’ll engage with our animal care team as they share insights about one of our most beloved residents.

Learn about their curious behaviors, conservation efforts, and why these unique animals are so important to our planet’s ecosystem. Perfect for animal lovers and adventure seekers alike, this experience will leave you with memories and stories that last a lifetime.

Get ready to meet some snappy personalities at our Cuban Crocodile feeding session! Miguel and Rose, our critically endangered crocs, are eager to showcase their lunchtime etiquette. Join us for an up-close encounter and discover the athletic prowess of these remarkable reptiles.

Prowl over to the Tiger Temple Encounter area Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays to come face to face with the majestic Malayan tigers, Tahan and Batari! Marvel at the magnificence of these rare creatures as you learn about our efforts to secure a future for this endangered species. It’s a thrilling encounter that will leave you in awe of these incredible animals and inspired to join us in their conservation journey!

Head up two stories to the Gibbon Encounter to meet Georgie and Malay, or jump down into Langur Landing to see our awesome langurs. Prepare for an exhilarating encounter with our high-flying aerial acrobats on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays! Georgie steals the spotlight as he swings across his spacious habitat in Asia Trek, delighting guests with his antics. Keep an eye out for him zipping over to say hello—he loves meeting new friends!

Merge into the slow lane and hang out with Joe the Sloth, at the ARC! Watch as this slow-moving superstar descends from the trees for a snack and an unforgettable close-up encounter.

Gray Rat snakes are one of the most widespread native snakes in East TN. Rat Snake Research at Zoo Knoxville plays a vital role in understanding their role in an urban environment. By studying rat snake behavior and ecology, Zoo Knoxville helps support biodiversity while deepening our appreciation of these misunderstood animals.