This is a paid piece from the Great Plains Zoo.

Simplified: Summer is in full swing at the Great Plains Zoo. The new splash pad is now open, the lion exhibit is almost ready to open, and there's a range of events throughout the month of June sure to entertain all ages. Here's a look at what's happening.

Why it matters

  • There's a lot to celebrate at the zoo this summer, as it adds new amenities, welcomes new animals and looks to the future with its recently-released master plan.
  • Between the zoo and its partners at the Butterfly House and Aquarium, there are events throughout the entire month of June that celebrate everything from pollinators to oceans. There's even an adults-only zoo experience at Zoofari.
  • You can also enjoy more opportunities to see the animals during summer hours with a regular schedule of zookeeper chats and weekly "Wild Wednesdays" where the zoo stays open until 7 p.m. with special themed events.
"We really want people to experience the zoo in new ways this summer," said Denise DePaolo, director of PR and engagement. "You can splash at the splash pad, see the animals in the evening, enjoy a Zoo Brew on tap, and, soon, meet our new lions."

Tell me more about events coming up in June

Here's a quick look at what's happening:

  • Teddy Bear Clinic. The first Wild Wednesday event of the month focuses on the theme of bears, and the folks at the Zoo Vet Clinic is offering free teddy bear checkups. Sign up here to bring in one stuffed animal for a checkup and leave with a certificate of health.
  • World Ocean Day. Head to the Butterfly House and Aquarium on June 8 to learn more about oceans and the creatures that live in them. You can also enjoy a scavenger hunt.
  • Splish Splash Splashpad Party. The June 12 Wild Wednesday is all about water fun with a Splashpad Party featuring musician Phil Baker.
  • World Pollinator Week. Celebrate pollinators all week from June 17-22. Each day will have a new activity and education stations where you can learn more about pollinators and the conservation efforts of the zoo.
    • The week culminates with Flutterfest on June 22 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. where you can find crafts, games, face painting, education stations and pollinator garden talks.
  • Zoofari. One of the biggest events of the month is Zoofari – an adults-only night at the zoo that'll give you an opportunity to support the zoo's efforts to bring all elements of land, sea, and sky to one campus.
    • Enjoy food and dessert stations from Vespa Catering, feed giraffes, meet farm animals, tour the veterinary clinic, meet ambassador animals and learn more about the work and mission of the zoo. Learn more and get tickets here.