Question 1

How many guests can the venue accommodate?

Accepted Answer

The Hilltop can host up to 1,200 guests standing or 600 seated. Smaller spaces include the Discovery Pavilion (100 guests) and Palm Garden (275 ceremony guests). The venue offers multiple configuration options.

Question 2

What does the site fee include?

Accepted Answer

Site rental from 4:00 PM–10:00 PM includes admission and parking for up to 200 guests, two zoo event hosts, professional security, tables, chairs, linens, dinnerware, glassware, and flatware. Additional guests: $25 per person for parking.

Question 3

What's the starting price for a wedding here?

Accepted Answer

Site fees start at $6,000 during off-peak (Nov-Mar) and $6,500 during peak season (Apr-Oct). In-house catering starts at $36 per person plus a 20% service charge. Total cost depends on guest count and menu selections.

Question 4

Can we bring our own caterer or alcohol?

Accepted Answer

No outside caterers or alcohol permitted. Events by Rincon is the exclusive caterer. Exception: daytime events with 30 or fewer guests may bring outside food. All beverages must be served by Zoo Catering Services staff.

Question 5

What decoration restrictions should we know about?

Accepted Answer

For animal safety, balloons, confetti, sparklers, silk petals, and luminaries are prohibited. Candles require prior approval. Flowers and bubbles are permitted. Dance floors and drapery are allowed.

Question 6

Can we hire our own DJ?

Accepted Answer

Yes, DJs are permitted but must be selected from the Zoo's Event Partners List due to sound restrictions. All entertainment requires advance approval. Preferred DJ: Scott Topper Wedding DJ Productions.

Question 7

What time does the event need to end?

Accepted Answer

All events must end by 10:00 PM. Music and amplified sound must cease by 10 PM due to city ordinances. Evening events typically run 5:00–10:00 PM.

Question 8

What unique experiences can we add for our guests?

Accepted Answer

The zoo offers giraffe feeding during cocktail hour, flamingo and penguin encounters, exclusive train rides, and zoo keeper talks. These animal experiences are available as add-ons through Events by Rincon.

Question 9

What is the deposit and insurance requirement?

Accepted Answer

A deposit of 50% of the site fee plus a $800 refundable security deposit is required. Event liability insurance of $1,000,000 is mandatory, available through homeowner's insurance or event insurance specialists.

Santa Barbara Zoo

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Venue Highlights

Photo Gallery

Explore the Property

Hilltop (Upper)

Palm Garden

Cabrillo Lawn

Discovery Pavilion

Hilltop (Upper)

Palm Garden

Cabrillo Lawn

Discovery Pavilion

Hilltop (Upper)

Amenities & Features

Santa Barbara Zoo

FAQs

Curated by Wedy