Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary is Prescott's hometown wildlife sanctuary and one of the area's most popular family attractions. Located near Willow Lake in northern Prescott, the 10-acre sanctuary provides a home for rescued and non-releasable animals while giving visitors an opportunity to learn about wildlife, conservation and the individual stories of the animals in its care.
Often called the "Prescott Zoo" by visitors, Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary is smaller and more intimate than a large metropolitan zoo. That works in its favor for families who want an easy half-day activity without spending an entire vacation day walking through a sprawling attraction.
Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary is especially well suited to families with children, animal lovers and visitors looking for an activity that can easily be combined with Willow Lake, Watson Lake or other Prescott attractions.
What Is Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary?
Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary has been part of the Prescott community since 1988. Unlike an attraction built primarily around displaying animals, the sanctuary emphasizes wildlife rescue, animal care, conservation and education.
The sanctuary cares for animals from several major groups, including:
- Large mammals
- Small mammals
- Hoofed animals
- Birds
- Reptiles
- Amphibians
- Invertebrates
Many of the animals at Heritage Park have individual histories that explain why they cannot simply be returned to the wild. That gives families an opportunity to talk about wildlife rehabilitation, responsible animal care and conservation rather than treating the visit as simply a checklist of animals to see.
Animals at Heritage Park Zoo
The collection changes over time, but Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary is known for caring for a surprisingly diverse group of animals for its relatively compact size.
Depending on the animals currently in residence and which exhibits are open, visitors may encounter mammals, birds of prey, reptiles, native Arizona wildlife and species from other parts of the world.
One advantage of visiting a smaller sanctuary is that you can slow down and spend more time observing individual animals rather than racing between exhibits.
Animals may move indoors, rest outside public view or have exhibit access changed because of weather, veterinary care or animal-management needs. No particular animal sighting should be considered guaranteed.
Things to Do at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary
Explore the Animal Exhibits
Walking through the sanctuary is the main attraction. Exhibits introduce visitors to different species while educational information helps explain the animals, their natural environments and conservation issues.
The sanctuary's manageable size makes it particularly useful for families with younger children who may not have the stamina for an all-day zoo visit.
Visit the Children's Zoo
Families with younger visitors can include the children's zoo area in their visit. It adds another kid-focused experience to a day that can already include wildlife, outdoor play and a picnic.
Playground & Splash Pad
Heritage Park also includes recreation areas for children, including a playground and splash pad.
The splash pad is particularly welcome during warmer Prescott days, but its operation can be seasonal. Check current availability before promising the kids a water day and bring appropriate clothing if you plan to use it.
Bring a Picnic
Picnic tables and a covered pavilion make it possible to turn a short zoo visit into a more relaxed family outing.
Bringing lunch can be especially convenient for families who would rather let children eat when they're ready than build the entire day around a restaurant reservation.
Special Events at Heritage Park Zoo
One of the best reasons to check the sanctuary's calendar before visiting is its schedule of special programs and events.
Programs vary throughout the year and can include experiences such as:
- Zoo by Moonlight
- Breakfast with the Animals
- Special keeper presentations
- Animal-focused educational programs
- Seasonal family events
- Adult evening events
- Zoo camps and children's programs
Some events require advance reservations and separate admission, so check the sanctuary's current calendar when planning your trip.
Zoo by Moonlight
Zoo by Moonlight offers a particularly different way to experience the sanctuary. These seasonal evening programs give visitors a chance to observe some of the sanctuary's nocturnal residents when they may be more active than during the middle of the day.
If you've already visited Heritage Park during normal daytime hours, a special evening event can provide a very different experience.
Visiting Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary
Location
Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary
1403 Heritage Park Road
Prescott, AZ 86301
The sanctuary is located in northern Prescott near Willow Lake and the Granite Dells, making it easy to combine with other attractions in that part of the city.
Hours
Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary is currently open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Hours can change for holidays, weather, special events or other circumstances, so verify current operating information before making a special trip.
Admission
General admission is required, with different rates and discounts available depending on age and eligibility. Special events and programs may have separate admission charges.
Because admission prices and promotions can change, check current rates directly with Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary before visiting.
How Long Should You Spend at Heritage Park Zoo?
For most visitors, plan on approximately two to three hours for a comfortable visit.
Families using the playground, splash pad or picnic areas may want to stay longer, while adults primarily interested in seeing the animals may move through more quickly.
Is Heritage Park Zoo Good for Families?
Yes. Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary is one of the easiest Prescott attractions to recommend for families because several activities are concentrated in one relatively compact area.
A family visit can include:
- Wildlife viewing
- Educational exhibits
- Children's zoo
- Playground
- Splash pad when operating
- Picnic areas
- Special animal programs
For additional ideas, see our family-friendly things to do in Prescott guide.
What to Do Near Heritage Park Zoo
The sanctuary's location makes it easy to combine with some of Prescott's best-known outdoor attractions.
Willow Lake
Willow Lake is immediately nearby and provides hiking, paddling, birdwatching and views of the Granite Dells. Combining the zoo with a short walk around Willow Lake creates an easy wildlife-and-outdoors day without much driving.
Watson Lake
Watson Lake is another excellent addition to the day. Its enormous granite formations make it one of Prescott's most distinctive landscapes and a favorite location for kayaking, hiking and photography.
Peavine Trail
The Peavine Trail provides an approachable walking and cycling route through the Granite Dells and alongside Watson Lake.
A morning zoo visit followed by an afternoon around the lakes works particularly well for families who want to see several Prescott attractions without spending much of the day in the car.
Best Time to Visit Heritage Park Zoo
Morning
Morning is generally a good choice, particularly during warmer months. Temperatures are cooler, and you'll still have plenty of time afterward to explore another Prescott attraction.
Spring & Fall
Spring and fall typically offer comfortable temperatures for walking around the outdoor sanctuary.
Summer
Prescott's higher elevation makes summer considerably cooler than Arizona's lower desert cities, but midday sun can still be strong. Summer also brings Arizona's monsoon season, when afternoon thunderstorms can develop quickly.
Winter
The sanctuary remains an option during winter, but Prescott can receive snow and experience freezing temperatures. Check conditions before visiting after a winter storm.
See our Prescott weather guide for seasonal planning information.
Planning a Family Day Around the Prescott Zoo
Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary works particularly well as part of a larger family day.
One simple itinerary is:
- Morning: Visit Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary.
- Lunch: Bring a picnic or head into Prescott for lunch.
- Afternoon: Explore Willow Lake, Watson Lake or the Peavine Trail.
- Evening: Visit downtown Prescott and Courthouse Plaza.
If younger children are running out of steam after the zoo, skip the hike and head downtown instead. Prescott has enough variety that a good family itinerary doesn't require turning every available hour into an expedition.
Browse our things to do in Prescott and Prescott attractions guides for additional ideas.
Hours, admission prices, animal exhibits, splash pad operation and special-event schedules can change. Check current information directly with Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary shortly before your visit.
Heritage Park Zoo FAQ
Does Prescott have a zoo?
Yes. Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, commonly referred to by visitors as the Prescott Zoo or Heritage Park Zoo, is located at 1403 Heritage Park Road in Prescott.
What is the official name of the Prescott Zoo?
The official name is Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary. It is a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary focused on animal care, education and conservation.
Is Heritage Park Zoo good for kids?
Yes. In addition to animal exhibits, Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary has family-oriented features that include a children's zoo, playground, picnic areas and a splash pad when operating.
How long does it take to visit Heritage Park Zoo?
Most visitors should allow approximately two to three hours. Families using the playground, splash pad or picnic areas may want additional time.
What are the hours for Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary?
The sanctuary currently lists regular hours as 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. Check current hours before visiting because schedules can change for weather, holidays or special events.
What animals can you see at Heritage Park Zoo?
The sanctuary cares for animals from several groups, including large and small mammals, hoofed animals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Individual animals and viewing availability can change.
What can you do near Heritage Park Zoo?
Willow Lake is located nearby, while Watson Lake, the Granite Dells and Peavine Trail are also easy to combine with a visit to the sanctuary.
Does Heritage Park Zoo have special events?
Yes. The sanctuary hosts educational programs and seasonal events throughout the year, including experiences such as Zoo by Moonlight and Breakfast with the Animals. Some programs require advance reservations.
