Get ready, New Orlean! Summer nights are about to get wetter, wilder, and a whole lot more adult. The beloved Sip & Dip series is back at Audubon Zoo’s Cool Zoo Waterpark, turning Friday nights into the ultimate 21+ aquatic hangout. Starting May 30, 2025, the splash zone transforms into a laid-back party spot nearly every Friday through August (with the exception of July 4 weekend), complete with music, drinks, food, and plenty of floating down the lazy river.
Each evening features a different theme—from bounce music to yacht rock to Latin dance beats—inviting grown-ups to unwind in the playful setting of one of New Orleans’ most unique water parks. It’s the kind of event where you can two-step through water jets, sip a cocktail under the palms, or simply float your way through the night.
Ticket Options for Every Krewe
General admission is $50 and includes entry starting at 7:00 p.m. Guests can purchase food and drinks throughout the night from Gator Bites, Cool Zoo’s on-site concessions.
For those who want to start the party a little earlier—and enjoy a few perks—VIP tickets are available for $75. VIP access begins at 6:30 p.m. and includes one complimentary drink plus entry to Oyster Beach, a private, upscale area featuring a dedicated bar and curated menu by Dickie Brennan & Co. Catering.
Bringing your entire krewe? Snag a Cabana VIP package, which includes a private cabana for the evening, six VIP tickets, early entry at 6:30 p.m., drink tickets, and full access to Oyster Beach. Cabanas range from $400 to $500 depending on location, offering a semi-private oasis for your crew to kick back and soak it all in.
“This year we’re expanding the number of Sip & Dip nights because the response last summer was incredible,” said Daine Appleberry, Senior Vice President of Audubon Zoo. “It’s the perfect way for adults to unwind, listen to great music, sip on cocktails, and enjoy the Cool Zoo in a whole new way.”
Summer 2025 Sip & Dip Schedule
Here’s the full lineup of themed nights:
May 30: Bounce Night
June 6: True Colors – Pride Night
June 13: Totally 80s
June 20: Musicals Night
June 27: Over the Rainbow – Pride Encore
July 11: Hip Hop Hooray – R&B Night
July 18: Pop Hits Night
July 25: Disco Fever
August 1: Yacht Rock Vibes
August 8: It’s a Vibe – R&B Night
August 15: Country Night
August 22: Caliente – Latin Night
Each Sip & Dip runs from 6:30 to 10:00 p.m., and all guests must be 21 or older. Tickets are available now at audubonzoo.com/sip.
Cool Zoo: Where the Wild Things Splash
Cool Zoo Waterpark isn’t your average splash pad. Located inside Audubon Zoo, the park features wild water fun like jumping fountains, a giant gator slide, spider monkey sprayers, and slithering snake jets. The Gator Run lazy river winds through the park for 750 feet, offering two sandy beach areas, lounge chairs, water curtains, jets, and cannons to keep the fun going all night long.
So grab your friends, your floaties, and your funkiest swimsuit. Sip & Dip is back—and it’s bigger, better, and bolder than ever.
