Nature and Wellness Unite at the Zoo 

In 2025, the Minnesota Zoo welcomed more than 8,600 guests for its second annual Nature Wellness Day, a unique program designed to explore the connection between nature and human well-being. Thanks to generous sponsorships from Children’s Minnesota and The Mother Baby Center, this immersive experience was free with standard Zoo admission and offered a wide range of activities for guests of all ages.   

Guests enjoyed activities such as music therapy, nature art, and outdoor play, as well as stations focused on mental health, injury prevention, and medical education. One especially popular feature was called TLC for Teddy Bears. For this activity, children brought stuffed animals for “checkups” from Zoo and Children’s Minnesota staff and learned firsthand how medical professionals care for both humans and animals. 

Events like Nature Wellness Day give visitors the chance to experience nature in a whole new way. By offering access to immersive experiences that nurture curiosity, mindfulness, and connection, the Zoo helps people of all ages discover how time in nature can support health, happiness, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. 

Programs like this are made possible through the support of both partners and Foundation donors, who ensure that the Zoo can continue to provide experiences that inspire, educate, and promote well-being across our communities.