Jacksonville Zoo And Gardens


Select services venue

The venue will provide the space, plus a few extras.

Guest capacity

Up to 250 seated guests


About this venue

Say “I Do” at the Zoo. Make your special day unforgettable with our one-of-a-kind wedding accommodations. Every moment at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens will leave you and your guests with a memory that will last a lifetime. With wildlife just steps away, our venues are a memorable choice for celebrations. Whether you prefer candlelit dinners among tigers or cocktails in gardens, we can transform your event into an amazing reality.


Our event spaces

Asian Bamboo Gardens

Near the Trout River is a tranquil garden that borrows from a range of different Asian styles and traditions.

As you enter through the authentic Moon Gate you will see The Weeping Tree Bridge that connects the yin and yang terraces, a perfect location for cocktails and Food Stations. The bridge overlooks the beautiful Lotus pool and Koi pond. Natural and artistic elements provide breathtaking photo opportunities during both day and night.

Guest capacity

Up to 40 Seated

Up to 100 Standing

Ideal for

Cocktail hour

Range of the Jaguar

From the replica Mayan stone temple to the enchanting three-tiered water fountain, this South American-styled plaza is perfect for any event.

The Range of the Jaguar offers a breath taking backdrop for your next event. From the replica Mayan stone temple to the enchanting three-tiered water fountain at Palm Plaza with a large stage and beautiful landscape lighting; this location offers multiple options for a stunning after hour affairs. Adding uniqueness and pleasure to your celebration, the jaguars, howler monkeys, giant anteaters and other animals in this venue are left on exhibit during your private event.

Guest capacity

Up to 250 Seated

Up to 300 Standing

Ideal for

Wedding ceremony, Wedding reception, Rehearsal dinner, Engagement party, After party

Gardens at Trout River Plaza

Our most popular ceremony site, this Tuscan-styled garden located near Trout River boasts floral-topped columns, year-round roses, and a fountain

Springing from lush garden beds are thirteen Grecian-style “living” columns topped with overflowing flowering urns giving this Garden its classical look. A planted trellis, lush and cool with colorful and fragrant vines, along with a number of large shade trees and themed lights. Central to the plaza is a celebratory fountain with a spill bowl topped by a basking anhinga bird sculpture.

Guest capacity

Up to 250 Seated

Up to 350 Standing

Ideal for

Wedding ceremony, Wedding reception, Rehearsal dinner, Engagement party, After party

Shaba Terrace

Located near our main entrance, this is a rustic open-air venue overlooking beautiful lush foliage.

Our large open air terrace with dual stairwells, elevator and private restrooms, is located upstairs at Main Camp. A beautiful thatched roof with versatile lighting and overhead fans or heaters, microphone, and sound system make this a perfect location for casual and formal celebrations for corporate or private events.

Guest capacity

Up to 250 Seated

Up to 400 Standing

Ideal for

Wedding ceremony, Wedding reception, Rehearsal dinner, Engagement party, After party, Other

Moon Gate

Set along our bamboo forest, this traditional Asian gate with circular entry symbolizes perfection.

Our authentic moon gate opens into a tranquil garden space located in the back of the park along the Trout River, that borrows from a range of different Asian styles and traditions.

Guest capacity

Up to 150 Seated

Up to 200 Standing

Ideal for

Wedding ceremony

Giraffe Overlook & Savanna Blooms Garden

This flourishing African oasis includes an elevated viewing platform to meet our gentle giants.

Located near the center of the park, the Giraffe Overlook and Savanna Blooms Gardens are stunning African oasis. A bar area sits at the top of this platform and is the perfect spot for easy cocktail serving. Guests can mingle among the giraffes or take a stroll through the beautiful garden, themed after the flora of the African savanna, while enjoying cocktails and hors d’ oeuvres.

Guest capacity

Up to 100 Standing

Ideal for

Cocktail hour

Guests often feel this space is

“Surprised and delighted”

Asian Bamboo Gardens

Near the Trout River is a tranquil garden that borrows from a range of different Asian styles and traditions.

As you enter through the authentic Moon Gate you will see The Weeping Tree Bridge that connects the yin and yang terraces, a perfect location for cocktails and Food Stations. The bridge overlooks the beautiful Lotus pool and Koi pond. Natural and artistic elements provide breathtaking photo opportunities during both day and night.

Guest capacity

Up to 40 Seated

Up to 100 Standing

Ideal for

Cocktail hour


Available services that can be provided by Jacksonville Zoo And Gardens

Services & amenities

  • Bar services
  • Catering services
  • Clean up
  • Event rentals
  • Event staff
  • Service staff
  • Set up
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Wifi

Transportation & access

  • Self parking - free
  • Wheelchair accessible

Reviews

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5.0 out of 5

1 review

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  • Best Wedding Venue!!

    Verified review
    Bree B.Mar 30, 2024

    We had our wedding here in March and it was beyond incredible! Everyone loved the animals, the beautiful gardens, feeding giraffes, riding the carousel, and so much more. 10/10 recommend this venue for a wild and unique wedding!