Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens Wedding Photography Guide
A photographer's guide to Jacksonville's most unique wedding venue
About Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens Weddings
Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
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If you want a wedding venue that's truly unlike any other, Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens delivers an experience your guests will never forget. Imagine exchanging vows with giraffes in the background, taking portraits in front of a Mayan temple with jaguars nearby, or dancing under the stars near exotic animals.
The zoo offers multiple unique ceremony and reception spaces, each with its own character. From the dramatic Range of the Jaguar with its ancient temple architecture to the serene Asian Bamboo Gardens, there's a setting to match every couple's vision.
Event Spaces
- Giraffe Overlook & Savanna Blooms Garden: Ceremony with giraffes in the background
- Range of the Jaguar: Mayan temple, fountain, jaguars, howler monkeys, and anteaters on exhibit
- Gardens at Trout River Plaza: Waterfront ceremony and reception space
- Asian Bamboo Gardens: Serene, lush bamboo setting
- Land of the Tiger: After-hours only, exotic backdrop
- Shaba Terrace & Samburu Room: Indoor/outdoor African-themed space
Best Photo Locations
Range of the Jaguar
A stunning Mayan temple backdrop with a beautiful fountain and actual jaguars, howler monkeys, and anteaters visible during your event. The ancient architecture creates dramatic portraits unlike anywhere else.
Giraffe Overlook & Savanna Blooms Garden
Watch giraffes in the background of your ceremony. The elevated overlook provides stunning views of the African savanna exhibit - yes, real giraffes might photobomb your portraits.
Asian Bamboo Gardens
Lush bamboo creates a serene, zen-like atmosphere. The green backdrop is timeless and photographs beautifully in any light.
Land of the Tiger
Available for after-hours events only, this exhibit offers an exotic backdrop with tigers potentially visible during your celebration.
Gardens at Trout River Plaza
Waterfront views along the Trout River with beautiful landscaped gardens. A versatile space that works for both ceremonies and receptions.
Shaba Terrace & Samburu Room
Indoor/outdoor flexibility with African-themed decor. The covered spaces provide weather backup while maintaining the zoo's unique atmosphere.
Photographer Tips
Animals Add Magic (and Unpredictability)
The animals are the star attraction, but they're also unpredictable. We'll have backup locations if your favorite creature decides to hide - flexibility is key.
After-Hours is Worth It
Evening events mean quieter grounds and potentially more animal activity. The Land of the Tiger is only available after hours and is absolutely worth considering.
Work With Zoo Photographers
The zoo has guidelines to ensure animal safety. We'll coordinate with their team to get amazing shots while respecting these important boundaries.
Embrace the Uniqueness
This isn't a traditional venue - that's the point! Lean into the adventure. A giraffe in your wedding photos is something your guests will never forget.
Multiple Spaces, Many Options
The zoo offers numerous ceremony and reception combinations. Tour thoroughly to find the spaces that resonate with you.
Sample Wedding Day Timeline at Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
Every wedding is unique, but here's a sample timeline to help you plan your day:
View Sample Timeline
Venue Access
Arrive and begin preparations in designated spaces.
First Look & Portraits
Private first look in the bamboo gardens or near your chosen exhibit.
Wedding Party Photos
Portraits throughout the zoo - jaguars, gardens, and unique backdrops.
Ceremony
Exchange vows at Giraffe Overlook, the Mayan temple, or your chosen space.
Cocktail Hour
Guests explore nearby exhibits while we capture candid moments.
Reception
Dinner and dancing with the zoo's unique atmosphere.
Golden Hour Adventure
Visit exhibits for sunset portraits with animals in the background.
Note: This is a sample timeline. Sunset times vary significantly by season, so we'll customize yours based on your wedding date, ceremony time, and priorities.
Jacksonville Zoo Wedding Cost
Pricing at Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens varies significantly based on the spaces selected, guest count, and whether you're booking during or after zoo hours.
Catering
The zoo offers in-house catering with extensive menu options. Their culinary team can customize packages to fit your vision and budget.
What Makes Zoo Weddings Special
- Animals visible during your event (depending on space)
- Unique photo opportunities found nowhere else
- Multiple ceremony and reception combinations
- Experienced events team familiar with zoo logistics
- Memorable experience for all ages
For current pricing and availability, contact the Jacksonville Zoo events team at (904) 757-4463 or visit jacksonvillezoo.org/weddings.
Planning a Wedding at Jacksonville Zoo?
We'd love to capture your unique celebration among the animals and gardens. With 15 years of experience and an adventurous spirit, we know how to work with the unexpected and create images that capture the magic of a zoo wedding.
Get in Touch