How to Visit the Tulsa Zoo Giraffe Feeding on a Budget

The Tulsa Zoo offers one of the most memorable wildlife experiences in Oklahoma: the chance to feed giraffes up close. This interactive attraction draws families, photographers, and animal lovers alike, creating unforgettable moments as these towering creatures gently take treats from your hand. But for many visitors, the cost of admission, parking, and additional experiences can add up quickly—making the giraffe feeding experience feel out of reach on a tight budget. The good news? With careful planning, smart timing, and insider knowledge, you can enjoy the giraffe feeding at the Tulsa Zoo without overspending. This comprehensive guide reveals exactly how to make this magical experience affordable, accessible, and deeply rewarding—even if you’re working with limited financial resources.

Understanding how to visit the Tulsa Zoo giraffe feeding on a budget isn’t just about saving money—it’s about maximizing value, minimizing waste, and ensuring your visit is both enjoyable and sustainable. Whether you’re a local resident looking for a weekend outing, a student on a tight stipend, or a family planning a low-cost vacation, this guide provides actionable, step-by-step strategies to turn an expensive attraction into an affordable adventure. By the end of this guide, you’ll know the best days to go, how to get discounted tickets, what to bring to avoid unnecessary spending, and how to enhance your experience without spending a dime more than necessary.

Step-by-Step Guide

Research the Tulsa Zoo’s Giraffe Feeding Schedule and Requirements

Before you even think about purchasing a ticket, you must understand the mechanics of the giraffe feeding experience. The Tulsa Zoo offers giraffe feeding during specific hours, typically between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., though these times can vary seasonally or due to animal health and weather conditions. Feeding sessions usually occur every 30 minutes, with a limit on the number of participants per session to ensure animal safety and visitor comfort.

Visit the official Tulsa Zoo website and navigate to the “Animal Encounters” or “Giraffe Feeding” page. Bookmark this page and check it weekly as schedules can change without notice. Note whether feeding is included in general admission or if there’s an additional fee. As of recent updates, giraffe feeding requires a separate $5–$7 fee per person, payable at the feeding station. This is critical to know so you can budget accordingly.

Also check for age restrictions. Children under 3 are typically not permitted to feed due to safety guidelines, and all participants must be able to stand steadily and follow instructions. If you’re bringing young children, confirm whether they qualify to participate before making the trip.

Plan Your Visit on a Discounted Admission Day

The single most effective way to reduce your overall cost is to visit on a day when the Tulsa Zoo offers discounted or free admission. The zoo participates in several community programs designed to increase accessibility:

• Free Admission Days: The zoo offers a few free admission days each year, typically in partnership with local libraries, nonprofits, or city initiatives. These are often announced in January and May. Sign up for the zoo’s email newsletter to receive alerts.
• Reciprocal Membership Programs: If you belong to another accredited zoo or museum (such as through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ reciprocal program), you may qualify for free or reduced admission. Check the Tulsa Zoo’s “Membership Benefits” page for a full list of partner institutions.
• Local Library Passes: Many public libraries in the Tulsa area offer free or discounted zoo passes through their “Museum Pass” or “Family Fun Pass” programs. Visit your local library’s website or call ahead to see if they have a Tulsa Zoo pass available for checkout. These passes often cover admission for up to four people and may even include the giraffe feeding fee.
• Student and Senior Discounts: Students with valid ID and seniors aged 62+ receive discounted admission. Always carry your ID—even if you’re not sure you qualify, ask at the ticket counter.

For example, the Tulsa City-County Library system frequently has 2-for-1 admission passes available. These passes can be reserved online and picked up at your nearest branch. If you’re visiting with a friend or family member, you can split the cost and each pay only half the regular admission price.

Arrive Early to Avoid Parking Fees

Parking at the Tulsa Zoo is free for members but costs $8 for non-members. While this may seem minor, it adds up quickly—especially for families. Fortunately, there are several ways to avoid paying altogether.

First, consider biking or walking if you live within 3–5 miles of the zoo. The zoo is located near the Tulsa Riverwalk and has dedicated bike racks near the main entrance. If you don’t own a bike, check out the city’s bike-share program, Tulsa B-cycle, which offers daily passes for under $10 and includes unlimited 30-minute rides. You can ride to the zoo, lock your bike, and ride back after your visit.

Second, use public transportation. The Tulsa Transit system operates Route 11 (Cincinnati Avenue) and Route 22 (11th Street), both of which stop within a 10-minute walk of the zoo’s main entrance. A one-way fare is $1.50, and you can purchase a day pass for $3.50, which covers unlimited rides. This means a round-trip for two people costs less than $7—far less than parking.

Third, coordinate with friends or neighbors. Carpooling not only saves on parking but also reduces your carbon footprint. Designate one driver and split any parking costs evenly. Even better, if someone in your group is a zoo member, they can use their membership to cover parking for the entire group.

Bring Your Own Food and Snacks

The Tulsa Zoo has several food vendors, but prices are inflated—expect to pay $12–$18 for a hot dog, $6 for a soda, and $10 for a bag of popcorn. These costs can quickly double your budget.

Instead, pack a picnic. The zoo allows visitors to bring their own food and drinks (except alcohol and glass containers). Designate a cooler bag or insulated lunchbox with sandwiches, fruit, granola bars, and refillable water bottles. Bring a small blanket to sit on during breaks. There are shaded picnic areas near the giraffe habitat, the African Savanna, and the Children’s Zoo.

Pro tip: Buy groceries in bulk on the weekend before your visit. Purchase a whole loaf of bread, a block of cheese, and a large bag of apples. Slice and wrap sandwiches at home. This can reduce your lunch cost from $50+ at the zoo to under $15.

Also, bring refillable water bottles. The zoo has multiple water fountains throughout the grounds, and you can refill them for free. Avoid buying bottled water at $3 each—this alone can save you $12 on a family of four.

Use the Free Educational Programs and Guided Tours

The Tulsa Zoo offers a range of free, drop-in educational programs that enhance your giraffe feeding experience without adding to your bill. These include:

• Zookeeper Talks: Daily 15–20 minute sessions at various animal habitats, including the giraffe enclosure. These talks often include behind-the-scenes facts about giraffe behavior, diet, and conservation efforts.
• Animal Enrichment Demonstrations: Watch how zookeepers create mental and physical stimulation for the giraffes using food puzzles, scent trails, and toys. These are usually held in the morning and are free with admission.
• Interactive Learning Stations: Located near the giraffe feeding area, these stations offer hands-on activities like skull comparisons, hide-and-seek games with animal tracks, and feeding behavior charts. Perfect for kids and curious adults.

These programs are led by trained educators and are designed to deepen your understanding of the animals you’re observing. By attending a zookeeper talk right before or after feeding, you’ll gain context that makes the experience far more meaningful—and you won’t pay a cent extra.

Time Your Giraffe Feeding Session Strategically

Not all giraffe feeding sessions are created equal. The first session of the day (11:00 a.m.) tends to be the least crowded. By arriving 15 minutes early, you can secure a spot in line without waiting. Later sessions (1:30 p.m.) can become packed, especially on weekends and during school breaks.

Weekdays are your best friends. Tuesday through Thursday are consistently the least busy days. Families with children are in school, and tourists are less likely to plan midweek visits. You’ll enjoy shorter lines, more personal interaction with the giraffes, and a calmer atmosphere.

Also consider the weather. Giraffes are more active and eager to feed on mild, sunny days. Avoid rainy or extremely hot days—animals may be less responsive, and you’ll be less comfortable standing in line. Check the 7-day forecast before committing to your visit date.

Bring Your Own Camera or Use Your Smartphone Wisely

Photography is encouraged at the Tulsa Zoo, but many visitors spend $50–$100 on professional photos taken by zoo staff. These are often beautiful, but entirely optional.

Instead, use your smartphone. Most modern phones have high-quality cameras with portrait mode, optical zoom, and HDR. Here’s how to capture the perfect giraffe feeding photo:

• Use the 2x or 3x zoom to get close-up shots without crowding the feeding area.
• Shoot during the golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) for soft, flattering light—even if you’re feeding at 11 a.m., the morning sun still casts a warm glow.
• Ask a staff member or another visitor to take your photo. Most are happy to help. Don’t be afraid to ask politely: “Could you take a picture of me with the giraffe? I’ll return the favor!”
• Use the burst mode to capture multiple frames. Giraffes move quickly, and burst mode increases your chances of getting a clear shot.

Post your photos on social media with the hashtag

TulsaZooGiraffeFeeding. You might even get featured on the zoo’s official page—and you didn’t pay a dime for the photo.

Best Practices

Join the Tulsa Zoo’s Email List for Exclusive Deals

Signing up for the Tulsa Zoo’s email newsletter is free and one of the most underrated budgeting tools. Subscribers receive early access to:

• Discounted ticket bundles
• Special event announcements (e.g., “Family Fun Fridays” with half-price admission)
• Seasonal promotions (e.g., “Buy One, Get One Free” during slow months)
• Free admission alerts for community days

Many of these deals are not advertised on the website. For example, in April 2023, subscribers received a code for $3 off admission and free giraffe feeding for one person. That’s a $10 savings per person. Over time, these small discounts add up significantly.

Visit During Off-Peak Seasons

The Tulsa Zoo is busiest from late March through August, especially on weekends and holidays. The best months for budget-friendly visits are September, October, November, and early December. During these months:

• Attendance drops by 40–60%
• Staff are more relaxed and available for conversation
• Feeding sessions are less crowded, giving you more time with the giraffes
• Temperature is mild, making outdoor exploration more comfortable

October is particularly ideal. The fall foliage around the zoo grounds is stunning, and the zoo often hosts “Fall Fest,” a free, family-friendly event with crafts, games, and animal encounters—all included with regular admission.

Bring Reusable Items to Avoid Impulse Purchases

Impulse spending is the silent budget killer. At the zoo, you’ll be tempted by stuffed animals, souvenirs, and novelty items like giraffe-shaped keychains for $12. Avoid these traps by preparing in advance:

• Bring a reusable tote bag to carry your snacks, water, and camera. No need to buy a $15 zoo-branded bag.
• Carry a small notebook and pencil. Many kids (and adults) enjoy sketching the animals. It’s free, educational, and memorable.
• Bring a small, inexpensive photo album or scrapbook. Paste your photos and ticket stubs after your visit to create a keepsake without spending on souvenirs.

Engage with Zoo Staff—They’re Your Secret Weapon

Zookeepers, educators, and volunteers are passionate about their work and love sharing knowledge. Don’t hesitate to ask questions:

• “What’s the giraffe’s favorite treat?”
• “How do you keep them healthy in the winter?”
• “Are there any conservation projects I can support?”

Not only will you learn fascinating facts, but you may also receive insider tips: “If you come next Tuesday, we’re doing a special feeding with carrots instead of pellets—it’s even more fun!”

Many staff members have access to free admission passes they can give to community members. While you can’t ask directly for a free pass, expressing genuine interest and gratitude sometimes leads to unexpected generosity.

Track Your Spending and Set a Budget Before You Go

Before leaving home, write down your maximum spending limit. For example:

• Admission: $18 (adult), $14 (child)
• Giraffe Feeding: $6
• Transportation: $3 (bus pass)
• Food: $10 (packed lunch)
• Contingency: $5 (for unexpected needs)
• Total: $56 for a family of two adults and one child

Carry cash or a prepaid debit card with only that amount loaded. This prevents overspending and keeps you accountable. Once your budget is spent, enjoy the rest of the zoo without buying anything else.

Tools and Resources

Official Tulsa Zoo Website

The primary resource for accurate, up-to-date information is tulsazoo.org. Use it to:

• Check daily feeding schedules
• View maps of the zoo layout
• Download the free mobile app for real-time updates
• Access printable activity sheets for kids

The app includes an interactive map that shows restrooms, water fountains, shaded areas, and feeding locations—all updated in real time.

Tulsa City-County Library System

Visit tulsalibrary.org and search “Museum Passes.” You can reserve a Tulsa Zoo pass online and pick it up at any branch. Passes are valid for one day and cover up to four people. Some branches even offer free parking vouchers with the pass.

Free Mobile Apps

• Google Maps: Use it to plan your route, check bus schedules, and find nearby free parking spots.
• Weather Underground: Get hyperlocal forecasts for the zoo’s exact location.
• PhotoGrid or Snapseed: Free photo editing apps to enhance your giraffe photos without paying for premium software.
• Splitwise: If you’re traveling with friends, use this app to split transportation or parking costs fairly.

Local Community Boards and Facebook Groups

Join groups like “Tulsa Families on a Budget,” “Oklahoma Free Events,” or “Tulsa Zoo Lovers.” Members frequently post:

• Unused passes they’re giving away
• Group discounts for large parties
• Volunteer opportunities that include free admission
• Upcoming free community events at the zoo

One member recently posted: “Got two free giraffe feeding tickets from a giveaway—happy to give them to someone who needs them.” Always ask politely—many people are happy to share.

Nonprofit and Educational Partnerships

Look into organizations like:

• United Way of Greater Tulsa – Offers family activity vouchers through its “Community Connect” program.
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Tulsa – Sometimes partners with the zoo for free field trips.
• Local Schools and Daycares – If you’re a parent or caregiver, ask if your child’s school has a partnership with the zoo.

These partnerships are often underutilized. A quick phone call or email can unlock free or deeply discounted access.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Smith Family – A Budget-Savvy Family of Four

The Smiths live in Broken Arrow and wanted to take their two children (ages 6 and 9) to the giraffe feeding. Their initial estimate: $116 for admission, parking, food, and feeding. They used these strategies to reduce their cost to $38:

• Checked the Tulsa Library system and found a 2-for-1 pass for admission.
• Used a Tulsa Transit day pass ($3.50) to get there and back.
• Packed sandwiches, fruit, and water from home ($8).
• Used their smartphone camera instead of buying photos ($0).
• Got one child’s giraffe feeding included for free because the pass covered two adults and two children for feeding (a rare but possible benefit).
• Volunteered to help clean up after the feeding session (asked a zookeeper) and received a free sticker for each child.

Total spent: $38. Total saved: $78.

Example 2: College Student – A Solo Visit on a $20 Budget

Jessica, a 20-year-old biology student, wanted to experience giraffe feeding for a class project. She had $20 to spend. Here’s how she made it work:

• Used her student ID to get $12 admission (regular price: $20).
• Took the bus ($1.50 each way = $3 total).
• Braved the 15-minute walk from the bus stop to save on parking.
• Brought a peanut butter sandwich and a water bottle ($2).
• Used her phone’s camera and downloaded a free app to identify the giraffe species.
• Asked a zookeeper for extra feeding pellets and was given a small bag to take home for her project.

Total spent: $19. She completed her project, got an A+, and had a life-changing experience—all within budget.

Example 3: Senior Couple – A Quiet Afternoon on a Fixed Income

Marjorie and Robert, both 72, wanted to enjoy a peaceful afternoon at the zoo. They live on Social Security and can’t afford $40 in admission. They discovered:

• Senior admission is $12 each ($24 total).
• They used their AARP card to get an additional 10% discount ($2.40 off each).
• They brought their own lunch and sat under a tree near the giraffes.
• They attended the 11 a.m. keeper talk and asked if they could help feed the giraffes. The keeper allowed them to feed two animals for free as a “thank you” for their lifelong support of wildlife.

Total spent: $21.60. They spent two hours there, smiled, took photos, and left feeling deeply connected to nature.

FAQs

Is giraffe feeding included in general admission at the Tulsa Zoo?

No, giraffe feeding is a separate, optional experience that costs $5–$7 per person. It is not included in general admission but can sometimes be bundled with special ticket packages.

Can I bring my own food to feed the giraffes?

No. For the safety and health of the animals, only zoo-approved food (provided at the feeding station) may be used. Bringing your own snacks, even healthy ones like carrots or apples, is not permitted.

Are there any free admission days at the Tulsa Zoo?

Yes, the zoo offers a few free admission days annually, typically in January and May. These are often tied to community events or sponsorships. Subscribe to their email list to receive notifications.

Can I use a library pass to get free giraffe feeding?

Sometimes. Some library passes include the giraffe feeding fee, while others only cover admission. Always check the fine print on the pass or call the zoo ahead of time to confirm.

What if it rains during my visit?

Giraffe feeding may be canceled during heavy rain or thunderstorms for animal safety. Check the zoo’s website or call ahead on the day of your visit. If canceled, you can usually reschedule your feeding ticket for another day.

Do I need to make a reservation for giraffe feeding?

No, feeding is first-come, first-served. However, arriving early ensures you get a spot, especially on weekends.

Can I feed the giraffes if I have a disability?

Yes. The zoo is fully ADA-compliant. There are accessible feeding platforms and staff available to assist. Call ahead if you need accommodations—most requests are accommodated without issue.

Is there a way to support giraffe conservation while visiting on a budget?

Yes. You can donate $1 at the donation station near the giraffe exhibit. Even small contributions help fund food, medical care, and habitat improvements. You can also volunteer your time—many zoo programs welcome community helpers.

What’s the best age for children to feed giraffes?

Children as young as 3 can participate, but they must be able to stand still, follow instructions, and hold the food properly. Most children between 4 and 10 have the best experience—old enough to understand, young enough to be amazed.

Can I take photos with the giraffes without feeding them?

Yes! The giraffe exhibit is visible from the public walkway. You can observe and photograph them without paying the feeding fee. Many visitors do this and still have a wonderful experience.

Conclusion

Visiting the Tulsa Zoo for giraffe feeding on a budget isn’t just possible—it’s empowering. By combining smart planning, community resources, and a little creativity, you can turn a costly outing into a rich, meaningful experience that costs a fraction of the price. Whether you’re a local resident, a student, a senior, or a family stretching every dollar, the strategies outlined in this guide ensure that the wonder of feeding a giraffe is within reach.

The key is not to spend more—but to experience more. The giraffes don’t care if you paid $20 or $100 for your ticket. They respond to your calm presence, your gentle hand, and your curiosity. That’s the true value of the experience. And that, no matter your budget, you can afford.

So plan your visit, pack your lunch, grab your phone, and head to the zoo. The giraffes are waiting—and they’re ready to make your day unforgettable.