Zoo Swap

The Virginia Zoo is partnering with both the YMCA of South Hampton Roads and the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas to swap members during August. For the sixth year, YMCA members will enjoy Zoo membership benefits and Zoo members will enjoy YMCA membership benefits.

Y members visiting the Virginia Zoo

Y members will enjoy free, unlimited admission to the Virginia Zoo during August, plus 10 percent discounts in the gift shop and food service locations. Discounts are not valid for special events and education programs. 

• To visit the zoo, simply go to the zoo and show the email we sent you OR a member verification form (available at any YMCA Welcome Desk) along with a photo ID and your membership card (keytag or app) at the Zoo entrance, in the gift shop and at food service locations. 

YMCA members who join the Virginia Zoo during August can take advantage of two extra months – free – on a Virginia Zoo membership.

We ask our members who are also zoo members to avoid changing their membership type to the zoo membership. To ensure a smooth experience and avoid any disruptions, please maintain your current membership type.

Virginia Zoo members visiting the Y

Activate Y Membership

Members of the Virginia Zoo can visit any of the 21 YMCA of South Hampton Roads locations to enjoy a safe place to exercise with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, indoor and outdoor pools, group fitness classes, and child care while you work out.

• Zoo members show their valid Virginia Zoo membership card, photo ID, and complete a guest waiver form upon visiting any YMCA of South Hampton Roads or YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas location.
• You can activate your YMCA August membership online or visit your local YMCA.
• Pre-registration is recommended for lap swimming and fitness classes, but not to visit the Y. Pre-registration is not required for open swim, and hours vary by location.
• Zoo members can also take advantage of discounted member pricing on programs such as personal training and swim lessons in August and September. (Valid for new registrations only—member discount does not retroactively apply to previous registrations.)

Zoo members who join the Y in August will pay no joining fee, a savings of up to $100.

Members of the Virginia Zoo can also visit any of the 14 YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas locations. For specific details about visiting those locations, visit ymcavp.org.