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Top Zoo And Aquarium Events In Denver

The Wild Animal SanctuaryThe Wild Animal Sanctuary (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)

There are several spots in Colorado for you to spend time exploring all about animals on both the land and sea. From the amazing Denver Zoo to the Downtown Aquarium or the Butterfly Pavilion and the Wild Animal Sanctuary, there are lots of great ways to learn all about the animal world. However, there are also lots of other fun things to do at these great spots. Check out these exciting special events that you can enjoy along with your whole family.

Single's Safari
Denver Zoo
2300 Steele St.
Denver, CO 80205
(720) 337-1400
www.denverzoo.org

Dating at the Zoo? Why not? The Single's Safari is a great way to meet other single folks in Denver that also have interests in being active. In fact, the singles you meet here are probably animal lovers just like you. You'll enjoy after-hours admission to the Zoo and all the interactive animal encounters plus plenty of fun adult beverage and yummy appetizers to enjoy. So gather a few single friends and head down for this fun singles night at the Denver Zoo. You can marvel at the lions, laugh at the monkeys and get a few phone numbers along the way.

Bunk with the Beasts: Go Nocturnal
Denver Zoo
2300 Steele St.
Denver, CO 80205
(720) 337-1400
www.denverzoo.org

The Bunk with the Beasts series at the Denver Zoo is a really fun way to explore the zoo overnight with your whole family or group. You'll explore specific activities related to the theme of each Bunk, as this one covers the fascinating world of nocturnal animals. You'll get a guided tour of the nocturnal animals, plus lots of animal encounters and a variety of games and activities. These family-friendly bunks are perfect for families with children ages six and older, plus you'll get time to explore the zoo on your own after the main information from the bunk ends.

Related: Top Wild Animal Sanctuaries in Colorado

Friday Family Nights
Downtown Aquarium
700 Water St.
Denver, CO 80211
(303) 561-4450
www.downtownaquarium.com

If you've never been to the Downtown Aquarium, then you are missing out, so here is your best chance. Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to close, the Downtown Aquarium is hosting the very fun and special Summer Family Nights series. You'll love all the different (and affordable) things to see and do at the Aquarium. There is discounted admission, a $2.99 kids menu and lots of discounted activities like $3 movie tickets, $1 face painting and $1 coconut tree climbs. Plus you can enjoy the Mystic Mermaid Shows and all the interactive animal exhibits. This special family night is specifically designed for families with children ages 10 and under, so this is perfect for the youngsters in your family.

Tripod Photography Sessions
Butterfly Pavilion
6252 W. 104th Ave.
Westminster, CO 80020
(720) 974-1877
www.butterflies.org

Are you or is someone you know a photographer? Then this is one of the most wonderful opportunities possible to get some truly special photos. You'll get an hour of photography time before the doors of the Butterfly Pavilion open to the public. It's bright and early, so the butterflies will be flying all over, giving you plenty of chances to capture that perfect butterfly photo. This is a limited event, only 20 people can participate in any photo session, so make your reservations early for this exciting and exclusive photography event.

Related: Top Spots for Wildlife Viewing in Colorado

Summer Safari
Wild Animal Sanctuary
1946 Country Road 53
Keenesburg, CO 80643
(303) 536-0118
www.wildanimalsanctuary.org

The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado is a truly special place to view an amazing display of animals all spending time in a natural habitat. The Summer Safari Series is a great way to enjoy the Sanctuary and a whole lot more. You'll get a buffet dinner and a fascinating presentation by the founder and director of the Wild Animal Sanctuary, Pat Craig (or some of the other Sanctuary staff). You'll also participate in a question-and-answer session, and get a chance to explore the Mile into the Wild Walkway and see the lion prides in the open-range habitats. This is an extremely limited event, as there are only 75 people per night and just a few nights left, so be sure to get your tickets early for this one.

Deborah Flomberg is a theater professional, freelance writer and Denver native. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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