Zoos & Aquariums

Zoos and Aquariums connect their guests to the natural world and the fascinating creatures that share our planet. By creating meaningful memories, they inspire current and future generations to help conserve the beautiful biodiversity of Earth. IAAPA's goal is to support these locations and the important work they do by connecting them with new and exciting ways to captivate their audience and share their love for our wildlife.

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Mission Vision

Expand your Network

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Want to elevate your guest experiences and optimize your commercial operations? IAAPA is your partner in achieving those goals. Connect with zoos and aquariums at IAAPA events, learn best practices from professionals with different attraction types, and join a network of creative, innovative, and passionate professionals from around the world.

Global Collaboration

Blonde girl looking at sea turtle in large aquarium

IAAPA’s Zoo and Aquarium committee is dedicated to collaborating across all areas of operations. Whether you volunteer to join a committee, share your feedback with our IAAPA team, or take action through IAAPA Public Affairs, your voice and ideas can help shape the future of Zoos and Aquariums.

Education to help you thrive

Mom & Child looking at Elephant

Our world is constantly changing, and IAAPA can connect you with education resources and thought leaders so that your facility is able to keep up. Whether it's learning how to incorporate the newest technology from your peers, navigating challenging situations, or professional development opportunities to share with your team, IAAPA has education benefits ready.

Animals in Professional Care

The “Animals in Professional Care: How to Understand and Respond to Animal Welfare Trends and Issues” toolkit is an educational resource for all members. Also available in Spanish.

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Benefits of IAAPA Membership

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    Learn from Global Leaders

    Enhance your zoo or aquarium's success with IAAPA's specialized learning resources. Explore our digital LMS for on-demand courses covering guest care, revenue generation, brand awareness, and more. Plus, connect with industry experts at our in-person classes offered throughout the yea

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    Operations Support

    Enhance your operations and elevate guest experiences with IAAPA's support. We offer expert guidance and resources in critical areas like crisis communication, public affairs, and operational best practices. Our Zoo & Aquarium committees work to address your needs and provide solutions to help you thrive.

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    Guest Safety

    Prioritize guest safety and enhance your operations with IAAPA's specialized safety resources. We provide the tools and training you need to develop comprehensive plans, navigate challenging situations, and ensure your facility is equipped to protect both guests and animals.

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    Stay Up to Date

    Stay informed about the latest trends and insights relevant to zoos and aquariums. Share your success stories in Funworld magazine or keep up with industry news and events through IAAPA News Daily. As a member, you'll also gain access to valuable research, safety reports, and economic data specifically tailored to your needs.

Join the Community

Become part of a thriving community of zoo and aquarium professionals. Join IAAPA to connect with peers, share best practices, and collaborate on initiatives that advance the industry.

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225+

Zoo and Aquarium Members

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100+

Countries with IAAPA Members

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350+

Hours of IAAPA Education Content