Tunes & Blooms at The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is an event that locals look forward to as a sign of spring.
The annual event takes place during April each Thursday evening and features live music and the zoo’s beautiful gardens.
I’m sharing more about why visitors will want to attend Tunes & Blooms at The Cincinnati Zoo this April and what you need to know before you go.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links.
1. Tunes and Blooms is a FREE Event!
This event is an inexpensive evening for families, friends, or couples.
When is the Tunes & Blooms Event at The Cincinnati Zoo?
Tunes & Blooms at The Cincinnati Zoo is every Thursday in April from 6 PM to 8:30 PM (weather permitting). Admission is free after 5 PM and parking is $10.
When is the First Tunes & Blooms Event at The Cincinnati Zoo?
The first Tunes and Blooms event will be on Thursday, April 3, 2025.
The live music begins at 6PM.
2. Tulip Mania and Flowers Galore
There are more than 100,000 tulips at The Cincinnati Zoo. That makes it one of the largest tulip displays in the Midwest!
If you visit the Tunes & Blooms each Thursday evening in April, you can witness the blooming process evolving over time.
This event is also a great opportunity to admire all the Zoo Blooms. There are more than one million daffodils, hyacinths, flowering trees, shrubs, and other spring bulbs!
The best part is the event takes place during the peak tulip bloom season.
3. See the Zoo Animals After Normal Hours
Many areas of The Cincinnati Zoo are still open during Tunes and Blooms for guests to enjoy.
It’s nice to walk around in the evening and discover the animals that are still out and active.
Guests can explore wildlife habitats until dusk, including Africa, Giraffe Ridge, Cat Canyon, Wolf Woods, and Roo Valley.
Indoor habitats are open until 8 PM, including the Reptile House, Night Hunters, World of Insects, and Manatee Springs.
4. Enjoy Live Concerts
Each Thursday in April guests are treated to great music by a different live band at 6 PM.
You can check out their music ahead of time online or be pleasantly surprised when you get there.
The crowds will be larger near the entrance by the stage at Vine Street Village, especially on a beautiful evening, but don’t let that deter you from attending.
There is plenty of room to spread out throughout the zoo and live music is in more than one location. Concerts at The Grove typically have lighter crowds.
Arrive early if you want to set up your chairs near the band.
April 2025 Concert Schedule For Tunes and Blooms at The Cincinnati Zoo
The following local bands will be performing free concerts at Tunes & Blooms:
- April 3 “Moonshine Drive” at Vine Street Village and “Linus Tate Unplugged” at The Grove
- April 10 – “Gina and Johnny” at Vine Street Village and “Elementree” at The Grove
- April 17 – “Cecil Jackson & Dry Ridge” at Vine Street Village and “The Laurelys” at The Grove
- April 24 – “My Brother’s Keeper” at Vine Street Village and “ZOO” at The Grove
5. Photo Ops Are Everywhere at The Cincinnati Zoo Tunes & Blooms
You can practice your photography skills while you’re at the zoo.
The flowers make a beautiful photo backdrop for family photos.
If you want water in the background take a picture from Swan Lake Bridge.
Bonus points if you have a collection of pictures of the tulips with family or friends over the years.
Tunes & Bloom at The Cincinnati Zoo FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the event.
How Much is Admission to Tunes & Blooms at The Cincinnati Zoo?
Admission to The Cincinnati Zoo is FREE after 5pm for Tunes & Blooms.
How much is parking at The Cincinnati Zoo?
There is a $10 fee for parking.
Where do you park for The Cincinnati Zoo?
Parking for The Cincinnati Zoo is at 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH.
Can You Bring Outside Food and Drinks to Tunes and Blooms at The Cincinnati Zoo?
You can pack a picnic dinner or purchase meals from vendors at the zoo.
The LaRosa’s truck will be available for pizza during Tunes n’ Blooms and other specialty food stations in Vine Street Village and The Grove!
Zoo concessions are at Hop’s, Tusker’s, Wild Burger, The Coop, and Mai Thai’s Market.
No outside alcohol is permitted but the zoo does sell alcohol on-site.
*Bags will be checked before entering the zoo.
Can You Bring Your Own Chairs?
Yes, you can bring lawn chairs or blankets to Tunes & Blooms but no umbrellas are allowed.
What’s the Weather Like in Cincinnati in April?
Cincinnati’s weather can be unpredictable in April with an average high of 66F and a low of 43F.
In April, the weather can be chilly, possibly rain, or be PERFECT with mild temps and sunshine in the evenings.
Want to Visit The Cincinnati Zoo During the Day?
If you want full access to The Cincinnati Zoo you might want to purchase a ticket to visit during the day.
How to Save on Cincinnati Zoo Admission
You can save money on admission to the Cincinnati Zoo with discount tickets.
Purchase discounts for the Cincinnati Zoo hereThe Cincinnati Zoo is also on the Cincinnati POGO Pass.
More Information About The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
You can learn more information from the Cincinnati Zoo’s website.
More Cincinnati Zoo Articles
- Kanga Klimb Aerial Adventure Course at Cincinnati Zoo
- Tips For Visiting The Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo
- A Unique Adventure at the Family Twiga Overnight Camp
