Mill Mountain Zoo

Conservation | Education | Destination

conservation

Mill Mountain Zoo is a refuge to animals that are critically endangered, vulnerable, or otherwise non-releasable due to injury or captive birth. Not only do we protect and preserve the health and viability of these vulnerable animals in our guardianship. MMZoo is the region's leader in wildlife conservation. Additionally, we participate in research and species survival programs.

upcoming events

Aug
25
Amanda's August Reading Adventure 8/25
Read a few stories with Amanda Panda and Roanoke Public Libraries. Take pictures and even bring a story back home. Every Tuesday in August, at Mill Mountain Zoo at 11:00am. The event is free with admission.
Sep
19
International Red Panda Day
Join us for a PAWsome day dedicated to our favorite fluffy-tailed friend—the Red Panda! Enjoy fun red panda crafts, educational chats about beloved Frank, our resident Red Panda, and a special meet-and-greet with Amanda the Red Panda, our adorable mascot!
Oct
24
Zoo Boo 2026
Join us at Mill Mountain Zoo for a spook-tacular Halloween celebration all weekend long! Guests can enjoy trick-or-treating throughout the zoo, festive decorations, creepy crafts, keeper chats, vendor booths, and our fan-favorite Costume Contest. Come dressed in your best costume and celebrate Halloween with family-friendly fun for all ages. Tickets will be available in advance and day-of, with pricing information announced in August/September 2026.

zoo News

The Latest News:
January 6, 2026

Beginning January 7, Mill Mountain Zoo will operate on winter hours & will be closed every Tuesday & Wednesday. We’ll be open the remaining days of the week so you can still enjoy time on the mountain

In The Media:
June 24, 2026
Mill Mountain Zoo welcomes two Patagonian maras to a new habitat

Milly and Tilly Hopps are among the world’s largest rodents — and most visitors have never heard of them

Press Release:
July 10, 2026
Mill Mountain Zoo Invites Community to Enjoy Summer Evenings at Brew at the Zoo on July 10

Mill Mountain Zoo invites the community to enjoy a summer evening of wildlife, live music, local beverages, and family fun during the second Brew at the Zoo of the season on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Blog:
July 24, 2025
National Zookeeper Appreciation Week!

The job of a zookeeper is physically demanding, emotionally taxing, and mentally intense — and yet they do it with unwavering dedication, grace, professionalism, skill, and a deep love for the animals and the mission —wildlife and conservation, and education. They’re always observing, anticipating, and problem-solving. No one cares more for these animals than our zookeepers.

support The Zoo

Your support allows the Mill Mountain Zoo to continue our conservation efforts and educate thousands each year.
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