RISING SUN ZOO FIELD GUIDE
Plumpton Park Zoo for Groups: Intimate, Hands-On Animal Encounters for Parties of 15+
Group general-admission visits at Plumpton Park Zoo offer discounted rates for groups of 15 or more (starting at $13.95 for children) and optional one-hour guided educational tours — this guide explains logistics, animal highlights, and how to plan a smooth group arrival.
Plumpton Park Zoo for Groups: Intimate, Hands-On Animal Encounters for Parties of 15+.
Adventure brief
Plumpton Park Zoo for Groups: Intimate, Hands-On Animal Encounters for Parties of 15+
Plumpton Park Zoo in Rising Sun, Maryland, pairs a small-zoo ease with big-animal appeal: close-up views of giraffes, black bears, zebras and Siberian tigers within a compact, family-friendly setting that also offers a shaded picnic area, a snack bar and a petting zoo for hand-feeding select animals.
Experience a fun-filled day with your large group at Plumpton Park Zoo, located in Rising Sun, Maryland. This general admission ticket allows access to a vast collection of animals and immersive exhibits perfect for families, schools, or friends seeking an engaging outdoor adventure. With spacious walking trails and interactive habitats, visitors can enjoy up-close views of native and exotic wildlife, including playful primates, majestic birds, and gentle hoofed animals. The zoo’s focus on education and conservation provides an enriching experience for all ages, complete with picnic areas and shaded rest spots ideal for group gatherings. Whether you're exploring the natural landscapes, attending scheduled animal feedings, or enjoying the charming zoo farm, this activity offers a relaxed yet captivating outing that fosters connection to nature. Easily accessible from the Baltimore area, Plumpton Park Zoo is a welcoming destination that balances adventure, learning, and accessibility. Perfect for large groups looking to enjoy a private, well-organized outdoor wildlife experience in a beautiful Maryland setting.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic & Key Stops
Major stops on a typical group visit include signature animal exhibits, the petting zoo and guest amenities; reservations and group procedures smooth the entry process.
Giraffe and Large Mammal Area
View Jimmie the Giraffe and other large mammals up close in one of the zoo’s centerpiece exhibits.
Siberian Tigers Exhibit
Observe Alexis and Miracle, the zoo’s Siberian tigers, in a viewing area designed for safe, close observation.
Petting Zoo, Picnic Area and Snack Bar
Purchase petting‑zoo food to hand‑feed friendly animals, then use the shaded picnic area or snack stand for group breaks; a gift shop is also onsite.
Group rates apply only to parties of 15 or more and most group reservations must be made three weeks in advance; collect payment from participants beforehand and assemble your group outside the main entrance so a representative can pay at the admissions window.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Close Encounters with Big and Small
See signature residents like Jimmie the Giraffe, Louie the Black Bear, Zoe the Zebra and Alexis and Miracle the Siberian Tigers in an intimate layout that’s ideal for groups and children.
Picnic, Snacks and Souvenirs
The zoo provides a shaded picnic area, a snack bar and a gift shop; visitors can purchase petting‑zoo food to hand-feed friendly animals, making it easy to keep a large group comfortable and engaged.
Optional Guided Educational Tour
For groups wanting structured learning, a one-hour guided educational tour is available as an add-on at a set per-group rate.
What the day feels like
What a Group Visit Feels Like
A group visit unfolds as a relaxed circuit through a compact collection of exhibits — close viewing of large mammals, stops at the petting area and time for snacks or a picnic — all staged for easy supervision and frequent wow moments for younger visitors.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this visit works best for — and who should rethink.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring any petting‑zoo food purchased onsite, water and sun protection for outdoor exhibits; families should collect admission money prior to arrival and assemble the group outside the main entrance for streamlined payment.
Most groups must reserve the visit three weeks in advance; group admission is handled by a representative at the admissions window and group members who pay separately do not qualify for group rates.
Parking at Plumpton Park Zoo is free; on-site amenities include a snack stand and a gift shop.
Normal hours are 10 AM–5 PM with last admission at 4 PM; summer hours (Memorial Day–Labor Day) shift to 9 AM–6 PM with last admission at 5 PM.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What is the minimum group size to qualify for group rates?
Group rates are valid only for groups of 15 visitors or more.
How much are regular admission rates?
Adult admission (ages 13+) is $19.95; child admission (under 12 years old) is $13.95.
Is there an educational tour available for groups?
Yes — a one-hour guided educational tour is available for an additional $45.00 per 20 people.
When should groups make reservations?
Reservations are required for most groups three weeks prior to the date of your visit.
How should a group handle payment and entry on arrival?
Collect money from participants before arrival; upon arrival assemble the group outside the main entrance and have a representative come to the admissions window to pay so the group rate applies.
Is parking available?
Parking at the zoo is free.
Can visitors leave and re-enter the zoo?
After entry, anyone can get a hand stamp to exit and re-enter the zoo.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:59:25.418Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.