The Indianapolis Zoo’s only free admission day each year is back for 2026. On Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, families can enjoy a special Zoo visit while supporting a community-wide effort to help fight hunger in Central Indiana.
- What: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day – Free Admission
- When: Monday, January 19, 2026 (all day)
- Where: Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222
- Parking: Free parking is available for all White River State Park attractions (including the Zoo and the underground garage) on a first-come, first-served basis.
Related Article: 2026 Free Museum Days in Indianapolis
Why this day matters
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?'”
– Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Service and community were central themes in Dr. King’s teachings. Each January, the Indianapolis Zoo joins other partners in White River State Park to honor his legacy by welcoming guests for a day of free admission while raising support for Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana.
Donation dip jars will be available on site for monetary donations benefiting Gleaners, and families can also donate online if that’s easier. Every contribution helps provide meals for Hoosiers facing hunger.
Donate to Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana online
What to expect at the Zoo
Even in January, there is plenty to see. The Zoo notes that many of its hardier animals may be out enjoying the day, including sea lions, walruses, tigers, and brown bears.
You can also warm up inside. Popular indoor areas are expected to be open, including:
- Oceans
- Dolphin Pavilion/Dome
- Deserts Dome
- Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center
- Penny & Jock Fortune International Chimpanzee Complex
MLK Day schedule: chats and presentations
These experiences are animal-, staff-, and weather-dependent. Times can change, so double-check the Zoo schedule the day of your visit.
- 10:30 AM – Brown Bear Chat
- 11:15 AM – Penguin Chat (Oceans)
- 11:30 AM – Ray Feed (Oceans)
- 12:00 PM – Orangutan Chat (Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center)
- 12:30 PM – Dolphin Presentation (Dolphin Pavilion)
- 1:00 PM – Walrus Chat (Walrus Underwater Viewing)
- 1:30 PM – Brown Bear Chat (Forests)
- 2:30 PM – Tiger Chat (Forests)
- 3:00 PM – Red Panda Chat (Forests)
- 3:15 PM – Sea Lion Chat (Oceans)
- 3:30 PM – Chimpanzee Chat (Deborah J. Simon Culture Center)
Arrival tips
This is one of the Zoo’s busiest days of the year. Arrive early, dress in layers, and plan indoor stops (Oceans, Deserts Dome, Dolphin Pavilion) during the coldest parts of the day. On busy days, the Zoo may direct guests to its South Lot and provide a shuttle.
More free admission around White River State Park
If you want to make a full day of it, other White River State Park attractions are also offering free admission on MLK Day:
- Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art
- Indiana State Museum
- IMAX Theater at the Indiana State Museum
- NCAA Hall of Champions
New this year: A warming station featuring Traveling Tom’s Coffee Truck will be set up in the park to help visitors warm up between attractions.
Monetary donations benefiting Gleaners can be made in person at any participating attraction or online.
