I’ve always enjoyed going to zoos, and luckily for me, the United States boasts some of the best zoos in the world, each offering unique experiences. From immersive habitats to rare animal species, these zoos provide unforgettable adventures. Let’s take a look at 20 of the best zoos in the US worth visiting!
1. Bronx Zoo | New York City, NY
| Address | 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460 |
| Opening Hours | March 29 – November 2, 2024: Mon-Fri: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Weekends & Holidays: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM November 3, 2024 – March 2025: Daily: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Admission Prices | Adults (13 & over): Starting at $37.75 Seniors (65 & over): Starting at $33.25 Children (3 – 12): Starting at $28.75 Children (2 & under): Free |
| Parking Fees | Cars: $22 Buses: $24 Weekend Preferred Parking: $30 |
| Highlights | Congo Gorilla Forest, African Plains, Baboon Reserve, Tiger Mountain |
The Bronx Zoo is a massive 265-acre wonderland right in the middle of New York City. Besides being one of the best zoos in the US, it’s one of the largest city zoos in the world, offering a cool mix of city and wild vibes. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s a must-see. The Congo Gorilla Forest is a highlight—it’s like stepping into a rainforest and watching gorillas hang out in a setting that feels like their home.
2. Memphis Zoo | Memphis, TN
| Address | 2000 Prentiss Place, Memphis, TN 38112 |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (March – October) Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (November – February) |
| Admission Prices | Adults (12 & up): $24.95 Children (2 – 11): $19.95 Children (under 2): Free |
| Parking Fees | $10 per vehicle |
| Highlights | Giant Panda Exhibit, Zambezi River Hippo Camp, Teton Trek |
The Memphis Zoo is a gem with over 3,500 animals from 500 species. It’s a great spot for anyone who loves animals, offering a peek into the lives of creatures from all over the world. The Primate Canyon is super fun, with different primate species swinging around and playing.
The Zambezi River Hippo Camp is another cool area where you can see hippos up close, along with other African animals. The zoo’s interactive exhibits make it an awesome learning experience for kids and adults alike, and it’s all about showing visitors why conservation matters.
3. Blank Park Zoo | Des Moines, IA
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| Address | 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315 |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Winter) Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Summer) |
| Admission Prices | Adults (13 – 64): $18.00 Children (2 – 12): $12.00 Seniors (65+): $14.00 Children (under 2): Free |
| Parking Fees | Free |
| Highlights | African Lion Exhibit, Giraffe Feeding, Sea Lion Show |
Blank Park Zoo might be smaller, at nearly 50 acres, but it’s packed with fun and educational experiences. It’s famous for its reptile exhibits, featuring everything from vibrant snakes to impressive alligators. The petting zoo is a hit with families, offering the chance to get up close and personal with friendly farm animals.
As one of the best zoos in the US, it’s a great place to spend a day with the kids, fostering a love for animals and the outdoors. Plus, the zoo’s focus on conservation and education shines through in its exhibits, making it clear why protecting wildlife is so important.
4. San Diego Zoo | San Diego, CA
| Address | 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92108 |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Summer) Daily: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Rest of the Year) |
| Admission Prices | Adults (12+): $74 Children (3-11): $64 Multi-Day Pass: $148 for adults, $128 for children 3-for-1 Pass: $165 for adults, $155 for children |
| Parking Fees | Free |
| Highlights | Guided Bus Tour, Skyfari Aerial Tram, Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, Polar Bear Plunge, Gorilla Tropics, Koalas |
The San Diego Zoo is legendary, and for good reason. It’s been around since 1916 and is famous for its open-air, cageless exhibits. With over 12,000 animals from more than 650 species and subspecies, there’s a ton to see and do. The ‘Inside Look‘ program gives you a behind-the-scenes glimpse into animal care and conservation work, which is pretty fascinating.
5. Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium | Pittsburgh, PA
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| Address | 7370 Baker Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 |
| Opening Hours | In-Season (April – October): – Park Opens: 9:30 AM – Gates Close: 4:30 PM – Park Closes: 5:30 PMOff-Season (November – March): – Park Opens: 9:30 AM – Gates Close: 3:00 PM – Park Closes: 4:00 PM Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day |
| Admission Prices | Adults (14-59): $19 – $25 Children (2-13): $16 – $22 Seniors (60+): $17 – $23 Children (under 2): Free |
| Parking Fees | Free |
| Highlights | Water’s Edge, PPG Aquarium, African Savanna, Asian Forest, Worlds of Discovery, Kids Kingdom |
This place is an absolute gem, spread across 77 acres and packed with over 4,000 animals from 475 species. It’s a great spot to check out wildlife from all corners of the world. For the kiddos, Kid’s Kingdom is a blast—it’s an interactive area where they can play and learn about animals.
The Asian Forest exhibit is a must-see, especially if you’re into big cats like tigers and snow leopards. The two-story aquarium is super cool too, with everything from colorful coral reefs to icy polar waters. It’s a perfect day out for families and anyone who loves animals. You’ll have so much fun visiting one of the best zoos in the US.
6. Lincoln Park Zoo | Chicago, IL
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| Address | 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614 |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Special hours for events may apply |
| Admission Prices | Free |
| Parking Fees | Paid parking is available nearby |
| Highlights | Kovler Lion House, Regenstein Center for African Apes, Farm-in-the-Zoo, Nature Boardwalk, Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo |
Nestled in the middle of Chicago, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., dating back to 1868. And the best part? It’s free! This place has a great mix of history and modern exhibits. They do a lot of work with conservation, focusing on saving endangered species and teaching people about wildlife protection.
You can see majestic lions in the Kovler Lion House or watch the adorable antics of primates in the Helen Brach Primate House. The zoo’s grounds are beautifully kept, making it a peaceful escape from the city.
7. Oregon Zoo | Portland, OR
| Address | 4001 SW Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221 |
| Opening Hours | March 9 – May 24: Daily, 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry 4 PM) May 25 – September 2: Daily, 9 AM – 6 PM (last entry 5 PM) September 3 – 29: Daily, 9 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry 4 PM) September 30 – November 2: Daily, 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (last entry 3 PM) |
| Admission Prices | Adults (12+): $24.00 Children (2-11): $19.00 Infants (under 2): Free Military with ID: $22.00 Income-Assistance Admission: $12.00 |
| Parking Fees | $2 per hour, $8 daily maximum |
| Highlights | Elephant Lands, Polar Passage, Condors of the Columbia, Steller Cove, Predators of the Serengeti, Cascade Crest |
If you’re in Portland and love animals, the Oregon Zoo in Washington Park is a must-visit. With over 2,500 animals, this zoo is all about creating spacious, natural habitats for its residents. The elephant habitat is particularly impressive, giving these gentle giants a lot of room to roam. They also have a significant conservation effort for California condors, which is really inspiring.
And don’t miss the polar bear exhibit—it’s a fantastic way to learn about these amazing creatures and the challenges they face. It’s a great spot for anyone interested in wildlife and conservation.
8. Houston Zoo | Houston, TX
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| Address | 6200 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77030 |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM) |
| Admission Prices (Flex Pricing) | Adults (13-64): Varies by date and time Children (3-12): 20% off adult price Seniors (65+): 20% off adult price Children (under 3): Free Military Discount: 50% off for up to five guests Lone Star Discount: $9 per ticket |
| Parking Fees | Hermann Park Parking: Limited free spaces Houston Museum of Natural Science Parking Garage: $20 public, $10 members Medical Center + Museum District Parking: $5 – $15 Centennial Gardens Lot: Free for up to three hours (limited spaces) |
| Highlights | Asian Elephants, Southern White Rhinos, Malayan Tigers, Western Lowland Gorillas, African Lions, Galápagos Islands Exhibit |
The Houston Zoo is massive, one of the best zoos in the US, with more than 6,000 animals across 900 species. One of the coolest new exhibits is the Galápagos Islands habitat, where you can see animals like giant tortoises and marine iguanas. The zoo does a fantastic job of creating realistic environments that let animals exhibit natural behaviors, which makes for a more engaging visit.
They’re big on education and conservation, so you’ll leave feeling like you’ve learned something new. The Houston Zoo also works with global partners to help protect endangered species, which is pretty awesome.
9. Henry Doorly Zoo | Omaha, NE
| Address | 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107 |
| Opening Hours | April 1 – October 31: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (buildings stay open until 6:00 PM) November 1 – March 31: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (buildings stay open until 5:00 PM) |
| Admission Prices | Adults (12-64): $25.95 Children (3-11): $18.95 Seniors (65+): $24.95 Children (2 and under): Free |
| Parking Fees | Free |
| Highlights | Desert Dome, Lied Jungle, Scott Aquarium, Hubbard Orangutan Forest, Owen Sea Lion Shores, Asian Highlands |
Henry Doorly Zoo is famous for its incredible indoor exhibits and unique habitats. The world’s largest glazed geodesic dome is here, filled with plants and animals in a climate-controlled space. They recreate ecosystems from all over, like the Sonoran and Namib deserts, and Australia’s Red Center.
10. St. Louis Zoo | St. Louis, MO
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| Address | 1 Government Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110 |
| Opening Hours | Summer Hours (May 28 – August 18): – Sunday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Friday to Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM Fall Hours (September 3 – October 8): – Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Winter Hours (October 9 – December 30): – Daily: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Admission Prices | Free (some attractions may have additional fees) |
| Parking Fees | April 29 – September 2: – $20/car, $40/oversized vehicle Monday to Thursday: – $15/car, $30/oversized vehicle Friday to Sunday: – $20/car, $40/oversized vehicle |
| Highlights | River’s Edge, The Wild, Red Rocks, Historic Hill, Lakeside Crossing, Discovery Corner, Penguin & Puffin Coast, Sea Lion Show, Stingrays at Caribbean Cove, Zooline Railroad |
The St. Louis Zoo is a leader in animal care and conservation, and it’s a great place to visit. They’ve got all sorts of habitats, like the River’s Edge, which features animals from elephants to cheetahs. The Primate Canopy Trails are super cool, giving you a chance to see primates swinging through an elevated network of walkways.
The zoo is free, making it an easy and educational outing for everyone. They’re really dedicated to conservation, education, and research, so you can feel good about supporting their efforts to protect wildlife and promote biodiversity. No wonder this place is one of the best zoos in the US.
11. Disney’s Animal Kingdom | Bay Lake, FL
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| Address | 2901 Osceola Parkway, Bay Lake, FL 34747 |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Early entry at 7:30 AM for Disney Resort hotel guests |
| Admission Prices | 1-Day Base Ticket: $109 – $189 (varies by date) 1-Day Park Hopper: $188 – $254 4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket: $396 Multi-day tickets available |
| Parking Fees | Standard Parking: $25 per day Preferred Parking: $45 – $50 per day |
| Highlights | Pandora – The World of Avatar, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Expedition Everest, DINOSAUR, Kali River Rapids, Festival of the Lion King, It’s Tough to be a Bug!, Wildlife Express Train |
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is way more than just a zoo—it’s a magical mix of a wildlife park and theme park. Spanning a whopping 580 acres, it’s one of the biggest animal-themed parks out there. You can hop on the Kilimanjaro Safaris and feel like you’re on an African safari, spotting lions, giraffes, and elephants in huge open spaces.
Plus, Pandora – The World of Avatar is like stepping into a sci-fi movie with its glowing plants and alien landscapes. The park’s all about conservation and storytelling, making it perfect for families and animal lovers who want a fun and educational experience.
12. San Francisco Zoo | San Francisco, CA
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| Address | Sloat Blvd & The Great Highway, San Francisco, CA 94132 |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM) |
| Admission Prices | Adults (12-64): $29 (weekdays), $31 (weekends) Seniors (65+): $24 (weekdays), $26 (weekends) Children (2-11): $20 (weekdays), $22 (weekends) Children (under 2): Free |
| Parking Fees | Weekdays: $11 Weekends & Holidays: $13 |
| Highlights | African Savanna, Penguin Island, Primate Discovery Center, Hearst Grizzly Gulch, South American Tropical Rainforest, Children’s Zoo |
The San Francisco Zoo, established way back in 1929, is a classic spot with a gorgeous setting and tons of animals. Home to over 1,000 animals from 250 species, it has some cool habitats like the African Savanna, where you can watch giraffes, zebras, and ostriches just chilling out.
The Primate Discovery Center is also a must-see, featuring everything from tiny tamarins to big gorillas. With views of the Pacific Ocean and lush gardens, it’s a lovely place to spend the day, whether you’re a local or just visiting. This place is all about connecting people with nature and teaching them about wildlife conservation.
13. Alaska Zoo | Anchorage, AK
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| Address | 4731 O’Malley Road, Anchorage, AK 99507 |
| Opening Hours | Summer (June 1 – August 31): 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (last entry at 7:30 PM) Winter (September 1 – May 31): 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) |
| Admission Prices | Non-resident Adults (18+): $20 Alaska Resident Adults (18+): $17 (with ID) Seniors (65+) and Military Adults (18+): $15 (with proof of service) Youth (3-17): $10 Children (under 2): Free |
| Parking Fees | Free |
| Highlights | Polar Bear Camera, Brown Bear Encounters, Guided Tours, Summer Animal Feedings, VIP Tours |
The Alaska Zoo is all about those Arctic and sub-Arctic animals you don’t see every day. It’s the place to go if you want to check out snow leopards, muskoxen, and polar bears in habitats that feel just like home for them.
14. Columbus Zoo & Aquarium | Liberty Township, OH
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| Address | 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065 |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally) |
| Admission Prices | Adults (10-59): $35.99 Children (3-9): $28.99 Seniors (60+): $33.99 Children (under 3): Free |
| Parking Fees | $10 per vehicle |
| Highlights | Heart of Africa, Congo Expedition, Shores & Aquarium, Asia Quest, North America, Australia & the Islands, Manatee Coast |
The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium is famous for its incredible variety of animals and marine life. Whether you’re into big cats like lions or underwater worlds like coral reefs, this place has it all. The African Savanna and Polar Frontier exhibits are highlights, showcasing everything from rhinos to polar bears.
They also have a vibrant coral reef aquarium that’s just stunning. The zoo does a fantastic job with educational programs and conservation efforts, making it a great spot to learn about animals and how we can help protect them.
15. Oakland Zoo | Oakland, CA
| Address | 9777 Golf Links Road, Oakland, CA 94605 |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally and for special events) |
| Admission Prices | Adults (15-64): $24 Children (2-14): $19 Seniors (65-75): $22 Children (under 2) and Seniors (76+): Free |
| Parking Fees | $12 per vehicle (if purchased in advance) $15 per vehicle (at entry) |
| Highlights | Gondola Ride, California Trail, African Savanna, Wild Australia, Tropical Rainforest, Wayne and Gladys Valley Children’s Zoo |
The Oakland Zoo, which has been open since 1922, is a favorite for its focus on animal welfare and conservation. It’s home to over 850 animals and has a top-notch veterinary hospital where you can actually see some of the animal care in action. One of the coolest parts is the California Trail, which lets you explore the state’s native wildlife, including grizzly bears and mountain lions.
The zoo’s educational programs are engaging and informative, making it a fun spot for families who want to learn more about animals and how to protect their habitats.
16. Dallas Zoological Park | Marsalis Park, TX
| Address | 650 S R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75203 |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally) |
| Admission Prices | Adults (12-64): $24 Children (3-11): $18 Seniors (65+): $21 Children (under 3): Free |
| Parking Fees | $10 per vehicle |
| Highlights | Giants of the Savanna, Wilds of Africa, Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo, Koala Walkabout, Cheetah Encounter, Gorilla Research Station |
Welcome to the Dallas Zoological Park, the biggest and oldest zoo in Texas! This place has been around since 1888 and covers a whopping 106 acres. You can check out the Chimpanzee Forest and see these clever animals in a habitat that feels just like their natural home.
The Gorilla Research Center is another cool spot where you can learn about these amazing creatures and the efforts to save them. Don’t miss the Koala Walkabout, where you can get up close with these cute Australian furballs. With its long history and focus on conservation, the Dallas Zoo is not just fun but also super educational for everyone.
17. Brookfield Zoo | Brookfield, IL
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| Address | 8400 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513 |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Admission Prices | Adults (12-64): $29.95 Seniors (65+): $24.95 Children (3-11): $20.95 Children (under 3): Free |
| Parking Fees | $15 per vehicle |
| Highlights | Hamill Family Play Zoo, Dolphin Presentations, Giraffe Feeding, Koalas, Grey Seal Pup, Anniversary Ferris Wheel |
Brookfield Zoo is a must-visit if you’re into tropical wildlife and unique exhibits. The Penguin Encounter room is a real treat—you can get super close to these adorable birds and learn all about their lives. The zoo’s all about conservation, working hard to protect endangered species and keep our planet’s biodiversity intact.
One of the coolest exhibits is Tropic World, where you can experience the rainforests of Africa, Asia, and South America. It’s like a mini jungle adventure! Brookfield Zoo is perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about animals and how we can help protect them.
18. Woodland Park Zoo | Seattle, WA
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| Address | 5500 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103 |
| Opening Hours | May 1 – September 2: Daily, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM September 3 – April 30: Daily, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Admission Prices | Adults (13-64): $22.05 Children (3-12): $14.95 Seniors (65+): $20.95 Children (under 3): Free |
| Parking Fees | $6 per vehicle |
| Highlights | African Savanna, Tropical Asia, Australasia, Temperate Forest, Zoomazium, Historic Carousel |
Woodland Park Zoo is all about conservation and making sure the animals feel right at home. The African Savanna exhibit is amazing—you’ll see giraffes, zebras, and lions roaming in a spacious area. The Tropical Rainforest exhibit is another highlight, with jaguars and orangutans chilling in a lush environment.
The zoo’s immersive exhibits and educational programs help visitors understand the importance of wildlife and conservation. If you’re in the Pacific Northwest, Woodland Park Zoo is a fantastic place to learn about animals and enjoy nature in one of the best zoos in the US.
19. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden | Cincinnati, OH
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| Address | 3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220 |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally) |
| Admission Prices | Adults (13-64): $19.50 – $25.50 Children (2-12): $13.50 – $19.50 Seniors (65+): $18.50 – $24.50 Children (under 2): Free |
| Parking Fees | $10 per vehicle |
| Highlights | Hippo Cove, Gorilla World, Manatee Springs, Africa Exhibit, Giraffe Feeding, Train Ride, Carousel |
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the oldest in the U.S., and it’s known for its awesome animal care and conservation work. They’ve got a great breeding program that’s helping save species like the Masai giraffe and the Malayan tiger. The botanical gardens are beautiful and make for a relaxing stroll while you explore the animal exhibits.
20. Denver Zoo | Denver, CO
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| Address | 2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205 |
| Opening Hours | May 15 – October 31: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM November 1 – May 14: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Admission Prices | Adults (16-64): $25.20 Seniors (65+): $22.05 Youth (3-15): $18.90 Children (under 3): Free |
| Parking Fees | Free |
| Highlights | Elephant Passage, Predator Ridge, Tropical Discovery, Giraffe Encounter, Stingray Cove, Lorikeet Adventure |
Denver Zoo is a lively spot with tons of interactive events and cultural performances. The exhibits are fun and informative, giving you a peek into the lives of animals from all over the world. One of the coolest things they offer is the ‘Bunk with the Beasts‘ overnight stay, where you can sleep at the zoo and learn about nocturnal animals.
It’s a unique experience! Denver Zoo’s commitment to education and animal care makes it a fun and enlightening place to visit, perfect for families and anyone interested in wildlife.
To Sum Up
Visiting zoos is a great way to get in touch with nature and check out the amazing variety of animals we share the planet with.
Whether you’re into exotic creatures, curious about conservation, or just want a fun day out, these zoos offer plenty of cool experiences and excitement.
