One of Milwaukee’s most beloved summer traditions is back—A La Carte at the Zoo! From August 14–17, 2025, the Milwaukee County Zoo will once again come alive with the sounds of live music, the aromas of local cuisine, and the excitement of family fun. This popular event is perfect for all ages and offers a unique way to explore the Zoo while enjoying fantastic entertainment and food.
Festival Hours
- Thursday, August 14 – Saturday, August 16: 9:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Sunday, August 17: 9:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.
(All animal buildings will close one hour before the festival ends each night.)
Live Music
Music lovers can look forward to performances across six stages throughout the park, featuring both local talent and national headliners. All musical entertainment is included with Zoo admission.
Headliners on the Miller Lite Caribou Stage at 7 p.m.:
- Thursday, August 14: Phillip Phillips
- Friday, August 15: Los Lonely Boys
- Saturday, August 16: LOCASH
Food and Beverage
Sample a wide range of delicious options from over 40 local food and beverage vendors, offering everything from sweet treats to savory favorites. Many options are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free.
New in 2025:
- Lumpia City (vegetarian)
- Margaux Brasserie (vegetarian, gluten-free)
- Motor Restaurant
- Taco Caja
- Tiki Bubble
Fan Favorites Include:
A la Crepes, BBQ Belle, BelAir Cantina, Brew City Snowballs, Bubble Waffle Shoppes, C-Viche, Funnel Cake Factory, La Masa, Milwaukee Pretzel Company, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Pie Craft Pizza, Po’ Manz Food, Saz’s, Scrima’s Woodfired Pizza, Shawarma House, Tots on the Street, Wild Burger, Woody’s Custard, Wok in the Zoo, and many more.
Please note: All food and beverage vendors will accept credit or debit cards only. A cash-to-card kiosk will be available at the U.S. Bank Gathering Place for guests needing to convert cash to a prepaid card.
Tickets and Admission
Discounted admission tickets are available at Tri City National Bank locations while supplies last. Visit tcnb.com for branch information.
- Adult Admission: $18
- Child Admission (ages 3–12): $15
- Parking: $15
Zoological Society memberships are valid for A La Carte admission. Tickets are also available at MilwaukeeZoo.org.
Animal Encounters
While enjoying the music and food, don’t forget to explore the Zoo’s incredible animal residents. The Zoo features animals from around the world, with exhibits organized into four continental groupings. From reptiles and birds to big cats and elephants, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
All animal buildings will be open and close one hour before the end of the festival each night.
Additional Attractions and Activities
In addition to animal encounters, guests can enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities and attractions throughout the Zoo:
- Exploration Dinosaur presented by Meijer
- Giraffe Experience presented by Miller Lite
- Safari Train sponsored by North Shore Bank
- Carousel sponsored by Penzeys
- Sky Adventure Zip Line and Ropes Courses
- Sky Safari
- Goat Yard sponsored by Yutka Fence
- Animals in Action Talks
- Kohl’s Wild Theater
- Kohl’s Art Studio
- Zoo Expeditions
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re visiting for the music, the food, or the animals, A La Carte at the Zoo is a can’t-miss event for families and Zoo lovers alike. Plan ahead, bring your appetite, and prepare for a wild time at this Milwaukee summer favorite.
