This is a sponsored story from Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium.

Simplified: Sorry kids, this one's for the grown ups. The Great Plains Zoo has a new event series that gives adults a chance to experience the zoo after-hours – not to mention live music and adult beverages.

Why it matters

  • The zoo has consistently heard from folks that they're looking for opportunities to not only visit the zoo after-hours, but also to visit in an adults-only setting. That's why this year, the zoo is holding three "Adult Night" events, each with a different fun theme.
  • Each event gives visitors a chance to experience a one-of-a-kind night out – whether as a date, a friend outing, a happy hour crew or fun solo adventure – and the $35 ticket (if purchased in advance) includes zoo admission, a live concert performance, one drink and one specialty food item. Additional food and drink are also available for purchase.
  • The Adult Night events also give visitors a unique opportunity to see some animals when they're likely to be quite active – particularly the bears, big cats, snow monkeys and more.
"Our animals overwhelmingly enjoy the cooler temperatures," said Denise DePaolo, director of PR and marketing. "They're feeling very comfortable and relaxed in their environment, and often (evening) is one of the best times to see them."

Tell me more

The next Adult Night is coming up from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15 with an "Ultimate 80's" theme.

  • Dueling Duos, a dueling piano group, will perform from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on the Shoreline – the area near the bears and bison.
  • The splash pad will be open 6 to 8:30 p.m.
  • And guests can also enjoy some very rad retro games like hopscotch, jump rope and others.

The final Adult Night of the season will take place 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12 with a "Tailgate Party" theme.

  • Goodroad Band will provide the entertainment from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
  • Enjoy a field goal and quarterback pass challenge on the Primate Lawn from 6 to 8 p.m.

What to know before you go

Tickets are available online, and the event is for those ages 21+ (IDs will be checked at the gate).

Guests are also encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on while listening to the concert.