3 Proven Zoo Exhibit Ideas to Boost Guest Engagement (AZA Insights 2025)

As zoos and aquariums prepare for AZA, many leaders are asking how to create lasting guest engagement. Here are three proven zoo exhibit ideas that guests leave talking about—simple, immersive touches that sprinkle a little storybook magic onto every visit.

—Mira Bryant; Friday, September 12, 2025

Photo Ops: A Simple Zoo Exhibit Idea That Delivers

In our image-driven world, creating memorable photo opportunities is crucial for engaging guests. A well-designed photo area can become the highlight of a visit, encouraging guests to share their experiences with friends and family on social media. For instance, adding life-sized, climbable, dinosaur sculptures or vibrant backdrops themed to your event can provide fantastic photo opportunities.

Statistics show that 70% of visitors are likely to share their experiences if their photos are Instagram-worthy. These photo ops not only offer a fun experience but also serve as marketing tools. When guests share their images, they promote your zoo to a broader audience, helping attract new visitors. To maximize engagement, consider rotating these photo spots during special events to keep guests coming back for more "Instagram-able Moments". This keeps the experience vibrant and exciting.

Try this: one strong photo bay per zone + a “Make a Mesozoic Memory” sign.

We recently discovered the power of using a free photo booth in our exhibits! Kiddos get to take silly photos with a themed backdrop, and parents receive a branded image sent straight to their phone—no need to ask a stranger. Hands-free is guest-friendly, and instant sharing turns those smiles into organic promotion for your event.

Sensory-Friendly: Touchpoints for Guest Engagement

Creating a sensory-friendly environment is essential for ensuring all guests, including those with sensory sensitivities, can enjoy their visit. Incorporating sensory-friendly touchpoints can significantly enhance the overall experience and make your event more inclusive.

For example, adding quiet zones equipped with comfortable seating, calming visuals, and soft sounds can provide a needed respite-- especially when working with large animatronics. Interactive exhibits, such as petting areas or displays featuring low noise, allow guests to enjoy their time at your event.

By prioritizing sensory-friendly features, you not only cater to a wider audience but also create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to stay longer and return. Research indicates that 58% of families with children who have sensory sensitivities are more likely to revisit places that provide a supportive environment. This considerate approach fosters positive word-of-mouth and builds loyalty among guests.

Try this: mark a Quiet Route and add one touch tile at your first scene.

Placing skin and fossil examples around the exhibit offers calming, sensory-friendly engagement that’s also educational. We believe in engaging all five senses so children feel fully immersed in the experience—gentle sounds, predictable lights, and purposeful touch points keep the magic welcoming for everyone.

Interactive Elements: Keep Families Exploring

Interactive elements are a powerful way to engage families and encourage them to explore your exhibit. Incorporating hands-on activities, such as scavenger hunts or educational games, can transform a simple visit into an unforgettable adventure.

Imagine rolling out an interactive map that guides families through the Mesozoic era. This map could highlight various exhibits and activities, encouraging families to explore while learning about the prehistoric creatures and their habitats. In fact, families that participated in interactive experiences reported a 35% increase in overall enjoyment.

Integrating technology, such as a movement simulator, can also enhance guest exploration. For instance, using technology to see how the movement was beneficial to the creature in it's habitat, making the learning process exciting. It is also showcasing how we can use technology to educate and practice modern conservation. Offering these interactive opportunities boosts guest satisfaction and creates lasting memories that families will cherish.

Try this: one hands-on per 3–4 scenes; keep it wipe-clean and line-friendly.

Our Dilophosaurus is a fan favorite—not just because of modern media, but because it can playfully spray a gentle mist at guests! In interviews, families consistently picked that moment as a top memory. Pair it with a fossil dig or “junior paleontologist” zone so kiddos can touch, try, and triumph like real explorers!

Final Thoughts

Incorporating these three proven zoo exhibit ideas—photo ops, sensory-friendly touchpoints, and interactive elements—can significantly enhance guest engagement and create unforgettable experiences. By focusing on guests’ interests and needs, zoos can foster deeper connections with visitors, ensuring they leave with stories to share and a desire to return.

We’re grateful to partner with teams who make wonder happen daily; consider these a friendly cheat sheet you can copy for your next exhibit.

If you’re attending AZA 2025, visit us at Booth #536 or join a walking tour at ZooTampa. You can also reserve a quick 15-minute booth conversation for further insights.

Check Out what the ZooTampa is saying about their experience with us!