Zoo Hours & Rates

Here is a video from a few years ago that highlights a trip to our zoo and some of our animal exhibits. Video

Low temperatures mean that primates, tortoises, giraffes and many other animals must be kept inside for their comfort and safety.

Please note that the Zoo may close due to inclement weather or other circumstances without notice. Check Facebook for announcements or call 423-257-1927 when the weather forecast indicates precipitation or temperatures lower than 50°F.
Due to recent covid spikes, Brights Zoo will not be doing groups over 15 total people.     Brights Zoo staff speaks with the CDC and Health department each month to get the best advice on group sizes. With the new variants of Covid, Brights Zoo wants to make sure that we are doing our part in protecting our staff, our animals, and our guests.     The CDC and health department are suggesting that it may be this Fall before we can book groups over 15.    We will continue to monitor this and keep our website up to date.

Please Note - Brights Zoo is a smoke free environment (this includes vapors). 
No outside food or drinks allowed.

Zoo Admission

Special Activities
Animal Feedings are only offered at scheduled times

Gemstone and Fossil Mining

Membership Rates

Zoo Memberships are valid for one year from the date of purchase. With a membership, you receive unlimited admissions to the Zoo and special discounts on food, merchandise, special events and activities. Please note that memberships are not transferable to another person or zoo. For more information on membership, click here.

**Group Rates

To register your group for a visit, click on one of the links below:
PLEASE CONTACT GIFT SHOP IF INTERESTED IN BRINGING A GROUP
*Customers must have one of the valid, government-issued ID’s listed below to qualify for a Military or First Responder Discount: 

1. Active Duty Military ID card with a picture.

2. A retired Military ID card with a picture.

3. VA Card (Department of Veterans Affairs) – MUST have the words SERVICE CONNECTED under the picture.

4. Active Military and Retired Military ID card for spouse/dependents

5. Fire Department and EMS photo ID.

(A retired veteran must have qualified and gone through retirement with the Military. Veterans should have a Veteran’s Identification Card (VIC) provided by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. The VIC and your Driver’s License should be sufficient identification to get the Military Discount. The Military Discount applies to the cardholder only.”)

**Requires a minimum of 15 paid admissions to qualify for group rates

Scavenger Hunt
Brights Zoo now has a scavenger hunt! You can print directly from our website or request one from our gift shop. Teachers that want their kids to participate will need their students to bring a clipboard and a pencil. The answer guide can be picked up in our gift shop during your visit.
Click Here to download the Scavenger Hunt Questions.