There’s something magical about wandering through Sedgwick County Zoo at night. During Wild Lights, the zoo transforms: hundreds of handcrafted Asian lantern sculptures, animals, plants, and mythical creatures glow softly along the paths. Visiting the Wild Lights at Sedgwick County Zoo feels a bit like stepping into a giant storybook after dark. I didn’t get to experience the entire event, but what I did see was magical. Here is everything you need to know about planning to visit the Wild Lights at Sedgwick County Zoo next year.
The zoo opened in 1971 and grew over the decades into one of the largest in the country. It has a long history of conservation work, and many people in Kansas grew up coming here for field trips or summer days with family. The Wild Lights event builds on that history. The zoo brings in large handcrafted lanterns, many depicting animals or plants, and sets them along the paths. The mix of glowing figures and quiet walkways gives the zoo a different rhythm at night, slower and softer than during the day.
The lanterns sit in clusters, so you move from one scene to the next. Some are huge and tower over you. Others sit close to the ground. The colors shine in the dark and reflect off ponds and glass walls. The zoo keeps the paths open so you can see familiar exhibits in a new way. A cup of hot chocolate in hand is a staple on colder nights, and families tend to linger around the larger displays, especially this massive temple.
You can expect to see more than 60 illuminated vignettes, including glowing animals, mythical beings, vibrant plants, and more. New sculptures are often added each year, so definitely plan to visit next year. My favorite is the tunnel of lights; it is great for group photos. Don’t expect to enter the indoor zoo exhibits, as the focus is on the lantern art; however, you might see some animals outside. Especially the ones that are active at dusk or in sheltered outdoor exclosures.
One highlight is the giraffe habitat. Seeing giraffes at night is memorable. The lighting is sparse in this area, and the animals move slowly across their enclosure. Their long shapes look even taller in the dark. You can hear the sound of hooves on the ground and the soft movements as they eat hay. People often stop here longer than planned, since you do not often see giraffes under the night sky.
The walk continues through more lanterns. Some visitors loop the whole route. Other cut through side paths for short breaks. The zoo usually sets up food stands, so it is easy to take a break and sit for a moment. The event is ideal for families, couples, or anyone seeking a simple, calm night out. It is neither too loud nor too rushed, allowing you to enjoy the details on each display.
I really liked seeing the Zodiac creatures all lit up in a row. Everyone who walked by was searching for their personal zodiac sign. Mine is the Pig, which says, “You are a splendid companion, an intellectual with a very strong need to set difficult goals and carry them out. You are sincere, tolerant, and honest. By expecting the same from others, you may seem naive. Your quest for material goods could be your downfall. The Pig would be best in the arts, education, fashion, or possibly a lawyer”.
Table of Contents
When & How Long are the Wild Lights at Sedgwick County Zoo
- Wild Lights runs Wednesdays through Sundays, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
- The 2025 season ran from October 15 through December 21. Expect the 2026 season to be in a similar timeframe.
- Note: The zoo closes at 5:00 pm on Wild Lights nights.
- Even if your ticket is for a particular date, you can use it on any Wild Lights night.
Cost & Ticketing
The Wild Lights at Sedgwick County Zoo is ticketed separately from daytime zoo admission. Prices range from $14 to $21, depending on whether you are a member and whether you purchase online or at the gate. Children 2 & under are free. Group rates are also available for groups of 50 or more, and VIP golf cart tours are available.
Food & Amenities
Many of the zoo’s food spots are open, but they offer event-specific menus. Look for s’mores, hot chocolate, and other warm treats around the paths. If mobility is a concern, you can bring in electric scooters or wheelchairs; rentals are also available (but reserve early).
Tips for Making the Most of Wild Lights at Sedgwick County Zoo
- Buy tickets in advance – online tickets are cheaper and help you skip lines.
- Go early or late – crowds tend to be lighter right at six or closer to nine.
- Dress warmly – evenings in Wichita in fall/winter can be chilly.
- Bring a camera – the lighting is gorgeous, so low-light shots work really well.
- Use the map to plan your route to visit your favorite lanterns or linger where the displays are the densest.
- Combine with dinner – consider grabbing food in town before or after, or enjoy one of the zoo’s food stations.
More Photos of the Wild Lights at Sedgwick County Zoo
Staying in Wichita: Where to Stay & What Else to Do
If you’re making a weekend of it, here are some ideas for where to stay and what to do around Wichita:
Where to Stay
- Old Town Wichita: This area is highly walkable, with restaurants, bars, historic buildings, and nightlife. The Hotel at Old Town is in a great location, and the link provides 10% off your stay.
- West Wichita: Closer to the zoo, so your commute to Wild Lights will be shorter in the evening.
- Larger Hotels near Major Routes: If you’re planning to explore more of Wichita (or even day trips), staying near major highways gives you flexibility. Check Expedia for great rates in Wichita.
Other Things to Do in Wichita
- Botanica, The Wichita Gardens: Beautiful gardens, especially nice during the day. I love their new redesign of the Japanese Gardens.
- Exploration Place: Science museum – good for families. I was fortunate to see the preliminary development of the new outdoor playscape. Looking forward to seeing it finished.
- Museum of World Treasures: History, artifacts, and interactive exhibits. I enjoyed touring this museum and even took a night tour. So, cool to see the dinosaurs lit up at night.
- Old Cowtown Museum: A living-history museum that takes you back to the 19th century.
- Brewery/Restaurant Scene: Wichita has a growing craft beer scene, plus local restaurants that make for a fun night. Try River City Brewing Co. in Old Town.
Summary
I really enjoyed seeing the Wild Lights at the Sedgwick County Zoo. This is one exhibit I would love to return to next year. It reminded me of Detroit’s Wild Lights. And if you love the holiday season, you should definitely check out Wichita’s Sedgwick County Zoo.
