LITTLE ROCK (July 14, 2026)— Thanks to the generous support of Hiland Dairy Foods, one of our favorite annual traditions is back! Hiland Dollar Day makes it possible for families throughout our community to experience the Little Rock Zoo for just $1 admission per person.
We know that the cost of admission can sometimes make a Zoo visit difficult for some families. That’s why we’re so grateful for Hiland’s continued partnership in helping make wildlife, education, and unforgettable family memories more accessible to our community.
Because this special event is so popular, you can expect larger crowds than on a typical day—but that’s all part of the fun! With a little planning, you’ll be ready to make the most of your visit, discover amazing animals, and enjoy a day of adventure with family and friends.
Hiland Dollar Day Quick Facts
Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
Zoo Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Last Admission: 3:30 PM
Zoo Grounds Close at 4:00 PM
Admission: $1 per person
No proof of residency required
Parking: Free parking is available throughout the War Memorial area
Expect: A busy, fun-filled day with large crowds and warm summer weather.
Here are a few tips to help you have the best Hiland Dollar Day experience:
1. What to Leave at Home
To help keep our guests, staff, volunteers, and animal residents safe, please leave the following items at home:
- Outside food and drinks (except water) are not permitted inside the Zoo. This includes food and beverages purchased from restaurants or fast-food establishments, as well as homemade meals. Please enjoy these items before entering the Zoo.
- Ice chests and coolers are not permitted inside the Zoo.
- Pets and emotional support animals are not permitted inside the Zoo. Service animals trained to assist guests with disabilities are welcome in accordance with ADA guidelines.
- Balloons, whistles, speakers, and other loud or amplified noise-making devices are not permitted.
- Sports equipment and wheeled devices such as balls, bats, frisbees, and other recreational items, as well as wheeled devices such as bicycles, rollerblades, skateboards, hoverboards, scooters, and wheelie shoes (Heelys), are not permitted inside the Zoo.
- Drones and other unmanned aircraft are not permitted on Zoo grounds.
- Smoking and the use of tobacco or marijuana products are not permitted anywhere on Zoo grounds. This includes cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, vaping devices, smokeless tobacco, and marijuana products.
- Firearms, handguns, and other weapons are prohibited anywhere on Zoo grounds.
Thank you for helping us create a safe, enjoyable environment where everyone can enjoy their day at the Zoo!
2. Arrive Early
Hiland Dollar Day is one of the Little Rock Zoo’s busiest days of the year, and we recommend arriving early to make the most of your visit! Parking areas are expected to fill quickly, and admission lines are often longest when the Zoo first opens.
Our team will be working hard to welcome guests as efficiently as possible, but please be prepared for wait times throughout the day. We appreciate your patience as we help thousands of visitors enjoy this special community tradition.
Once parking areas reach capacity, guests may experience delays entering the Zoo. Arriving early and carpooling with your group, when possible, can help make your arrival smoother.
3. Stay Hydrated and Prepare for the Weather
Summer in Arkansas can be hot, so come prepared for a day outdoors! We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle, wearing comfortable shoes, applying sunscreen, and packing a hat or other sun protection.
Hydration and cooling stations will be available throughout the Zoo to help you stay comfortable during your visit. Taking a few breaks, finding some shade, and drinking plenty of water will help everyone in your group enjoy the day.
4. Staying Together
With thousands of guests expected to visit during Hiland Dollar Day, it’s important to have a plan for staying together.
Before entering the Zoo, consider dressing your group in similar or brightly colored clothing so it’s easier to spot one another in a crowd. If you’re visiting with young children, take a quick photo of them before you enter. If you become separated, a current photo can help Zoo staff identify and reunite your family more quickly.
We’ll also have a voluntary child identification wristband station available near the entrance. Parents and guardians can write a phone number on a wristband for their child. If a child becomes separated from their group, Zoo staff can quickly contact the listed phone number.
While these resources are here to help, the best way to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit is to keep children within sight and stay together throughout your adventure.
5. Stroller and Wheelchair Rentals
Need a little extra help getting around? Strollers, wheelchairs, and electric scooters are available to rent from the Gift Shop on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Strollers: $13
- Wheelchairs: $13
- Electric Scooters: $30
You’re also welcome to bring your own stroller, wagon, wheelchair, or mobility scooter.
6. Construction and Pathway Changes
You may notice things look a little different when you arrive! We’re building new and exciting exhibits, so a portion of the entry plaza is currently under construction.
While some pathways near the entrance have changed, the Zoo is fully open, and there’s still plenty to see and do during your visit.
Construction has changed the flow of some of our pathways, and with large crowds expected for Hiland Dollar Day, we may implement temporary traffic patterns to help keep guests moving safely and efficiently. Please follow posted signage and the directions of Zoo staff and volunteers throughout your visit.
Visiting the Great Apes? You can still see our gorillas, chimpanzees, and orangutans by using the entrance next to the orangutan habitat. After exploring all of the Great Ape exhibits, simply return the way you came.
Please note that this pathway does not connect to the front entrance during construction, so you’ll need to retrace your steps when you’re ready to continue onto the next area.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue building an even better Zoo for our community!
7. Enjoy Food and Refreshments
Exploring the Zoo takes energy! Throughout your visit, you’ll find plenty of options to keep your group fueled, including Café Africa, pop-up refreshment locations, and a variety of food trucks offering meals, snacks, and cold drinks.
While supplies last, be sure to enjoy refreshing Hiland Dairy beverages for just $1—another great way Hiland is helping make this community tradition even sweeter!
Please note that outside food and drinks (except water) are not permitted inside the Zoo. This includes food and beverages purchased from restaurants or fast-food establishments, as well as homemade meals. You’re welcome to enjoy these items before entering the Zoo.
8. Things to See and Do
There’s so much to explore during your Hiland Dollar Day adventure! In addition to visiting your favorite animals, be sure to check out these special experiences throughout the Zoo:
Bugtopia
Discover the fascinating world of insects at Bugtopia! This hands-on experience invites guests of all ages to learn more about some of the smallest—and most amazing—animals on the planet.
Over-the-Jumps Carousel
Take a ride on a piece of history! This one-of-a-kind antique carousel is more than 100 years old and is the only fully operational carousel of its kind in the world. Rides are $3 per person.
Arkansas Diamond Express Train
All aboard! The Arkansas Diamond Express Train is a fun ride for young Zoo guests and a great way to take a break during your visit. Enjoy a relaxing ride around a portion of the Zoo while taking in the sights along the way. Rides are $3 per person. Please note that is a continuous ride experience and does not include stops or pick-up/drop-off locations.
Arkansas Heritage Farm
Get up close with some of the Zoo’s friendliest residents at Arkansas Heritage Farm! This interactive experience gives guests the opportunity to see, connect with, and learn more about our farmyard animals in a fun, hands-on setting.
AIsle of the Dragon & Hidden Corners of the World
Explore one of the Zoo’s newest experiences inside the Reptile House! Step into Isle of the Dragon to discover our mighty Komodo dragon, one of the largest lizard species in the world. Guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor viewing areas, offering unique opportunities to see this incredible species throughout the day.
While you’re inside, be sure to explore Hidden Corners of the World and discover unique reptiles, amphibians, and other fascinating species from around the globe.
9. Places to Cool Down
Throughout your visit, be sure to take advantage of areas where you can step inside, cool off, and recharge.
The Zoo’s indoor, climate-controlled spaces include Café Africa, Cheetah Outpost, and the Reptile House. These areas provide a comfortable break from the sun while you continue exploring.
You’ll also find water mister stations, fans, and hydration stations throughout the Zoo to help keep your group cool and refreshed. Be sure to take breaks, drink plenty of water, and enjoy your visit at a pace that works best for your family.
10. Respect the Animals and Stay Safe
A Zoo visit is a chance to connect with wildlife, and we all play an important role in helping create a safe and positive environment for both guests and our animal residents.
Please help us provide the best experience possible by following these important guidelines:
- Stay on marked pathways and behind barriers. Please remain on designated pathways, and do not cross fences or boundaries, they are in place for everyone’s safety.
- Do not climb on fencing or barriers. Please do not sit on barriers, climb on fencing, or lift children over rails or habitat boundaries. These barriers are in place to protect both you and our animal residents.
- Observe animals respectfully. Avoid tapping on glass, knocking on habitat windows, making loud noises, calling out to animals, or mimicking their sounds. These actions can startle or disturb the animals. Animals choose when to be visible, and observing quietly gives you the best chance of seeing them during your visit.
- Please do not feed the animals. Our animal care teams provide specially planned diets to keep each animal healthy and happy, and outside food can be harmful to them.
By following these guidelines, you help create a safe, enjoyable visit for everyone while supporting the care and well-being of the animals who call the Zoo home.
11. Respect Our Staff and Volunteers
Our team is here to help make your visit safe, enjoyable, and memorable. During a busy event like Hiland Dollar Day, you may receive directions or guidance from Zoo staff and volunteers to help keep guests moving safely and ensure everyone has a great experience.
Thank you for treating our team with kindness and respect as they work hard to welcome our community and make this special day possible.
Thank You for Celebrating Hiland Dollar Day With Us
We are grateful to Hiland Dairy Foods for making this annual tradition possible and helping bring the Zoo experience to more families throughout our community. Their continued support allows guests of all ages to connect with wildlife, discover new things, and create lasting memories together.
Whether you’re visiting favorite animals, exploring a new exhibit, enjoying a special experience, or simply spending time together outdoors, we hope your Hiland Dollar Day visit is filled with fun, discovery, and unforgettable moments.
Thank you for joining us at the Little Rock Zoo. We can’t wait to welcome you!
