Skip to content

Things to do: Phoenix Zoo brings 'Dora the Explorer'-inspired interactive activities to summer visitors

Inspired by Dora’s adventures, this event includes a scavenger hunt through the zoo’s Forest of Uco, a photo-op with cutouts of Dora, Boots and Swiper, and a screening of an episode of "Dora the Explorer" in the Doornbos Amphitheater at 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. All Dora activities are included with general admission into the zoo.

The Phoenix Zoo is partnering with Nickelodeon to celebrate the triumphant return of iconic Latina heroine Dora the Explorer with interactive activities for kids and families this summer.

Featuring activities for visitors inspired by Dora’s adventures, this event includes a scavenger hunt through the zoo’s Forest of Uco, a photo-op with cutouts of Dora, Boots and Swiper, and a screening of an episode of Dora the Explorer in the Doornbos Amphitheater at 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. All Dora activities are included with general admission into the zoo.

The Phoenix Zoo is open every day this summer from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., with member early entry at 6 a.m. Tickets can be purchased online at phoenixzoo.org.

“The Phoenix Zoo is excited to showcase Dora-inspired elements this summer,” said Linda Hardwick, vice president of marketing, communications and events at the Phoenix Zoo. “We are looking forward to highlighting our rainforest habitats along the Tropics Trail and in the Forest of Uco as guests are taken on a journey of discovery with Dora while visiting several animals along the way, bringing awareness to that beautiful area of the globe.”

With all-new CG animation and imaginative character-driven storylines, the brand-new series Dora, streaming exclusively on Paramount+, follows everyone’s favorite bilingual explorer, Dora, and her best monkey friend, Boots, as they embark on epic adventures in a fantastical rainforest. Guided by trustworthy Map, Dora and her friends must work together to overcome many obstacles while being challenged by the sneakiest fox, Swiper.

Since its launch on Nickelodeon Aug. 14, 2000, Dora the Explorer quickly emerged as a global popculture phenomenon. Nearly 25 years later, it's still one of the most-watched pre-school shows of all time. Dora has crossed social, racial and language boundaries and stands as a hero and friend to millions of children around the world. The series currently is seen in more than 150 countries and territories and translated in 32 languages on Nickelodeon channels and Paramount+ around the globe and through syndication.

For information on upcoming events, exhibits and activities at the Phoenix Zoo, visit phoenixzoo.org.