Hotels near Boo at the Zoo

Boo at the Zoo is the Nashville Zoo's annual Halloween event, held on selected evenings through the second half of October. It is designed for children aged 12 and under and turns the zoo's paths into a trick-or-treat trail with candy stations, themed displays, storytelling and costumed characters, with rides such as the carousel included in the event ticket.

The zoo covers about 188 acres (76 hectares) on the historic Grassmere farm, with animals ranging from clouded leopards and red pandas to giraffes and Sumatran tigers. Adults without children can look out for BOOze at the Zoo, a 21-and-over evening with drinks, food trucks and a costume contest. Both events sell out, especially on the weekend before Halloween.

Pro Tip: Book the earliest entry slot on a weeknight, when lines at the candy stations are shortest. Bring your own trick-or-treat bag and a warm layer for after sunset.