30 Of The Best Zoos In The US For Any Animal Lover To Visit

Can we all agree that there is nothing as great as animals? All creatures both great and small are so spell-binding and fascinating.

They all have their very own little idiosyncrasies and personalities and they just seem to win us over instantly and automatically. It’s why we’ve domesticated so many different species.

Best Zoos In The US For Any Animal Lover To Visit

However, as we know, not all animals can be domesticated so easily. I don’t know about you but I don’t see too many giraffes or lions curling up on your lap on the sofa. Though how awesome would it be if they could? But alas, no such luck.

Realistically, if you want the chance to get up close and personal with some of the more wild and most fierce species of the animal kingdom, you’ll need to head to your nearest zoo.

The issue with wandering to your closest zoo, though, is that it might not have all the animals you want to see.

There are tons of zoos scattered across the states, and I mean tons, and some are better than others. If you’re looking to go all out, you’ll want to head to the creme dela creme of zoos. The best in the business.

But how do you know which zoos are really worth the visit?

You keep reading! In this article, we’ll go over the 30 very best zoos in the entirety of America. So, sit back and relax as I walk you through everything you’ll ever need to know.

1. San Diego Zoo, San Diego, California

Location: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101

San Diego Zoo has long been one of the most popular zoos across the country and it sees more than four million visitors annually.

It earned its notoriety long ago for being one of the very few zoos across the entire globe to home and breed the Giant Panda.

Unfortunately, you’ll no longer find these animals at the zoo as they were sent back to China. Don’t despair though, as there are around 12,000 other animals to feast your eyes on.

Be sure to check out the new Platypuses that have been imported from Australia!

And if wandering around the many enclosures wasn’t enough fun, you’ll also have access to a guided bus tour, animal shows, a 4-D theater, and play areas.

Oh, and did I forget to mention that you can even take part in Animals in Action experiences where you’ll get scarily close to some pretty big cats!

It is the perfect day out at San Diego Zoo – the fun never ends.

2. Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, Nebraska

Location: 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107

I adore Henry Doorly Zoo, step foot through the magical gates of this zoo and I’m sure that you will too. It really offers unique and fascinating experiences that you won’t get anywhere else and the exhibits are incredible.

Don’t just take my word for it though, a quick scroll to TripAdvisor will show that it’s one of the most highly rated zoos across the entire country. Perhaps this is thanks to the 15 exhibits that home over 16,000 animals.

Maybe it’s because Henry Doorly has the largest cat complex on the continent! Or possibly it’s due to the many, many experiences on offer while here.

Here, you can take a skyfari ride in a chairlift up to new heights and peer down at the Alaskan Adventure water and splash area beneath you.

You can zoom across the park on a train or tram, spin round and round on a carousel, or settle down in your seat and catch a movie at their theater.

With so much to do, you wouldn’t think they could possibly offer any more – but they do. Trivia nights and children’s summer camps take place here too.

Without a doubt, though, the best offering is an overnight stay right beside some of the best animal exhibits across the country.

3. Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, Illinois

Location: 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513

Found just outside Chicago, is this absolute gem of a zoo. Spread across 200 acres of land, 2000 animals are accessible to view. And you’ll definitely have a great selection of creatures to behold.

Some of the more popular attractions include the African animals, the big cats, and the indoor sea animal house. The sea house is one of my favorite places on earth.

You’ll find tons of fish swimming around, and you’ll even lay eyes on several sharks too. But my personal batch of serotonin comes from seeing all of the many, many penguins waddling around.

The ‘Dinos Everywhere’ exhibit is a unique experience that delights little ones and adults alike. Walk around this Jurassic-Park-inspired exhibit and gaze up at the lifesize mechanical dinosaurs that surround you – just don’t let them catch you.

And if that weren’t already enough, there are also many interactive opportunities here at Brookfield Zoo.

You can feed animals such as goats and meet many of the zoo’s inhibitors during talks with animal handlers and experts. And a definite must-add to your bucket list – you can pay to feed the giraffes(!!)

4. Denver Zoo, Denver, Colorado

Location: 2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205

The story of Denver Zoo goes a little something like this; it opened all the way back in the late 1800s with nothing but one singular animal – the black bear.

The zoo has continued to grow for the following century, and now there are more than 3,000 animals that reside here.

One great thing about Denver Zoo is their dedication to keeping their animals in their natural habitats. It’s also pretty popular for its interesting and unusual exhibits such as the Stingray Cove.

Here, visitors will get the chance to touch and feed the 40 stingrays that are swimming around their 15,000-gallon aquarium.

While this is great, I’m personally much more partial to the Elephant Passage where you’ll wander through winding pathways for as much as 10 acres worth of ground.

Here, you’ll see plenty of elephants of course, but there are other creatures to spot too.

There are also options for plenty of interactive experiences with llamas, giraffes, camels, and sloths.

5. Bronx Zoo, New York, NY

Location: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460

Ask anyone about the best zoo in New York, and you’re probably going to hear about the Bronx Zoo.

For animal lovers, there really is no better place to be. It’s one of the very biggest metropolitan zoos in the whole country with a whopping 260 acres of land brimming with animals to be explored.

And speaking of animals, you’ll have plenty to go and see. The zoo homes over 8,000 animals from 6,000 species! Some of the exhibits here really are the finest that you’ll ever see.

From the Wild Asia Monorail to the Congo Gorilla Forest, from Tiger Mountain to Madagascar – you’ll find everything you could possibly be looking for.

Be sure to check out some of their particularly unique animals such as puffins, chinchillas, aardvarks, and of course the red pandas.

There’s also much more to do than just view the many animals. You can ride the bug carousel, climb a tree-top ropes course, ride a trolley, and book up-close interactions with animals such as sloths, penguins, cheetahs, and giraffes.

6. Audubon Zoo, New Orleans, Louisiana

Location: 6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118

Audubon Zoo is a fantastic place to visit. Though it is only 50 acres it has over 2,000 amazing wild creatures to show off. And some really distinct and different exhibits that you won’t find anywhere else.

Ever wondered what animals lurk deep within Louisiana’s southern swamps? Well, at the Swamp Exhibit, you’ll be able to find out! You’ll see many different types of plants and even a few alligators.

There are also many other animals to witness, there are flamingos along with another 30 or so species of bird. There are big cats, primates, orangutans, and even sea lions!

If you want to learn a little more about any of these wonderful creatures, you’ll be happy to know that the Zookeepers give daily talks all about them.

If you’re really lucky, you’ll get picked for the interactive activities during the talks where you can cuddle and feed some of the animals.

And then what other zoo do you know that also has a waterpark? I know! Play in the pools and ride the slides, and once you’re done you can stop off at one of the many restaurants available for a well-deserved bite to eat.

7. San Antonio Zoo, San Antonio, Texas

Location: 3903 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212

More than one million people visit San Antonio Zoo each and every year to catch a glimpse of the 3,500 animals and 700 species that call the zoo their home.

As you’d expect, the zoo has plenty of exhibits to go around, the very newest of which is Africa Live (You might want to check out Facts About Timbuktu)! Here, you’ll see plenty of African animals such as monkeys, giraffes, elephants, zebras, birds, and more.

You can also meet up with one of the local zookeepers to learn more about the amazing animals in front of you. Don’t be shy to ask any questions you may have – they’re super friendly and full of interesting information.

You can also opt for the Education Encounters where you’ll get up close and personal with big pythons or gibbons.

Along with this, there is also a kids’ play area and a locomotive train you can ride, along with a children’s amusement park for endless fun.

8. Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Location: 3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Opening during the mid to late 1900s, Philadelphia is actually one of the longest standing zoos across the whole of the US.

It welcomes more than a million visitors through its doors each and every year, all of which are desperate to catch sight of the 1300 animals housed within the zoo.

There are many different animals worth seeing, but be sure to catch a glimpse of both the ruffed lemur and sloth bears.

Considering both are threatened and endangered animals, who knows how many chances you’ll get to see these in your lifetime.

Thankfully, Philadelphia Zoo are putting all their efforts into ensuring these endangered animals stay safe and are trying to prevent them from extinction.

The zoo also has some fun exhibits that you won’t want to miss such as their new dinosaur display where you’ll meet 24 life-size dinosaurs.

Don’t worry, they aren’t alive! Other attractions include a train, carousel, and an amazing rope course that includes a thirty-four feet high zipline!

9. Memphis Zoo, Memphis, Tennessee

Location: 2000 Prentiss PI, Memphis, TN 38112

There are only three zoos across the entire United States that actually home giant pandas, and Memphis Zoo is one of them.

So, if you’re hoping to see those huge pretty pandas, why not come to one of America’s most renowned zoos. Over a million other visitors a year do.

Along with your gorgeous pandas, you’ll also get the chance to see a further 3,500 animals from 500 species. So there are plenty of creatures to catch sight of while here.

There are so many different exhibits to choose from, but I’d definitely recommend heading straight to the China exhibit, where along with giant pandas you’ll see tons of langurs, pheasants, and deer

If you get tired of exploring on foot, don’t despair, as there is a tram that can transport you anywhere in the zoo. Many events are often held at the site so be sure to check out what’s on before you go.

And to end your day off on a high note, why not take your children around the many kids rides that are on offer too!

10. Cincinnati Zoo, Cincinnati, Ohio

Location: 3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220

Did you know that Cincinnati Zoo is one of the very oldest zoos in the entire country? Well, it is. It is also a National Historical Landmark too!

It is famous for many things, it has recently become more recognisable for once being the home of Harambe the gorilla who was part of a viral incident during 2016. However, Harambe was not the only famous creature to come from Cincinnati Zoo.

The zoo now homes Fiona, a hippo that was born during 2017. Foina was prematurely born and her long hard fight for survival has made her somewhat of an internet superstar.

There are also many other animals waiting to meet you at this zoo such as the giraffes and goats which can be fed by visitors every single day.

You can book a whole host of interactive animal experiences actually which include cheetahs, tortoises, and elephants.

Besides the animals, there are also several other attractions such as a train ride and a carousel. And a new recent addition of the Kanga’ Klimb allows visitors to reach new heights on a physically demanding high rope course.

11. Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Location: 7370 Baker St, Pittsburgh, PA 15206

There’s not many places where you can wander round a zoo and marvel at all the creatures above the land and then pop over to an aquarium to catch a glimpse of all that live beneath the sea.

But here you can.

The zoo is home to over 4,000 animals and the aquarium is two stories tall so you’ll be sure to get your animal fix while visiting. Will there be any animals left that you haven’t seen? I doubt it.

The zoo itself is really interactive and you’ll be able to get up close with the likes of leopards, cheetahs, and hippos. While the aquarium hosts regular shows where you’ll spot several sharks along with many other sea creatures.

And if all this wasn’t enough, there is even a zipline that allows you to zoom above all the animals you’ve just seen.

Along with this there are also often parades and special events throughout the year so be sure to check what’s on during your visit.

12. Dallas Zoo, Dallas, Texas

Location: 650 S R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75203

Dallas Zoo is one of the most favored attractions amongst visitors while in Texas, and it’s unsurprising considering this zoo is one of the largest in the US.

During your visit you’ll have the opportunity to explore and see more than 2,000 animals that are part of upwards of 400 species.

There are tons of interactive experiences available for those that want to get a little closer to the creatures great and small.

One of the best choices has to be the exhibit where free-flying birds will come and land on you. You can even feed them too.

There are plenty of other exhibitions too. You can expect to see huge birds, dogs, tortoises, cheetahs and more.

If you see an animal expert wandering around, be sure to stop them and ask any questions you have, they’ll be more than happy to educate you!

The zoo also has a one-of-a-kind carousel along with a train that runs across the entirety of the zoo.

13. Fort Worth Zoo, Fort Worth, Texas

Location: 1989 Colonial Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76110

If you want to see plenty of animals native to Texas along with some exotic creatures thrown in the mix too, then there’s no greater place to go than Fort Worth Zoo. They have an astounding amount of animals to be seen – 7000 in fact.

There are a total of 11 exhibits, some focus on just one species like the amazing Penguin home, Parrot Paradise, and primate area. Whereas other exhibits such as the African or Australian exhibits host a wide variety of different species.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to trek around one of the largest zoos by foot as there is a train that connects two parts of the zoo together. This makes for easier and faster exploring.

Once you come to an end of animal exploration, don’t despair, the fun doesn’t need to end just yet.

There is also a carousel, walking trails, target shooting games, family barns, rock-climbing walls, and even hurricane and tornado simulators!

14. Kansas City Zoo, Kansas City, Missouri

Location: 6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132

Having been caring for animals for over a century, you can be sure that you and all of their exotic creatures are in good hands at Kansas City Zoo.

And here there are so many different ways to experience the exhibits. You can walk through the African exhibit on foot and see the 100-acres that home rhinos, lions, cheetahs, elephants and many more.

Alternatively, you can opt for a new vantage point, and see these animals from the sky thanks to the zoo’s sky tram.

If you don’t fancy the sky tram or a long walk, you can even opt to take a boat ride around the fascinating exhibit.

Along with all this there is also a train connecting the zoo along with a fun carousel so that you can end your trip on a high.

15. Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, Illinois

Location: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

If you’re looking to get more bang for your buck, you’ll be happy to know that entrance to this fantastic zoo, home to close to 1000 wild animals, is completely free. Yep, that’s right. You’ll only ever pay admission if you visit on a special event day.

Once in the zoo, you’ll have the option to spot tons of different animals including large cats, monkeys, seals, penguins and much more.

Found at the center of the zoo, you’ll find their famous carousel that you need to ride. Lincoln Park Zoo also hosts a variety of different events that are all super cool to see. They have Zoolight events, beer tasting nights, and food tasting days.

The Zoolight event is something you won’t want to miss if it’s on during your trip. Millions of tiny lights shine bright throughout the zoo making it look super spectacular and magical.

You’ll also find other attractions while here such as the gorgeous gardens that are home to all kinds of flora and fauna along with a long-standing tree that dates so far back that it was there before Chicago had even become a city. Pretty cool, right?

16. Minnesota Zoo

Location: 13000 Zoo Blvd, Apple Valley, MN 55124

At Minnesota Zoo, animals are kept according to their natural habitat, which is something a little different and unique. There are easy to follow walking trails available so that you can fully explore each and every habitat.

What’s great is that each trail will have it’s very own theme such as northern animals or tropical animals which keeps it pretty interesting.

Be sure to check out the Minnesota trail which is a pretty unusual experience to any other zoo where you’ll be treated to a selection of native species such as coyotes, bears, eagles, otters, and wolves.

There are so many different animals to see here, Minnesota Zoo is even one of the few zoos with an aquarium so that you can view bountiful marine life within their many tanks.

For cuteness overload, try to visit when a Farm Babies event is taking place. You’ll get introduced to all the new baby animals at the zoo (!!!)

17. Oakland Zoo, Oakland, California

Location: 9777 Golf Links Rd, Oakland, CA 94605

Oakland Zoo has been home to over 850 native and exotic animals for over a century. It is also one of the best zoos in California. It’s a little different from your average zoo though.

Towards the lower entrance, you’ll notice the Wayne and Gladys Valley Children’s Zoo.

This zoo is specifically designed for children, though adults can certainly get a kick out of it too. Throughout your time at the exhibits in the Children’s Zoo you’ll learn through interactivity and play.

Children have the option to feed animals such as sheep and goats and can also enjoy the wildlife theater and multiple playgrounds.

One of the best things about this zoo is definitely the gondolas. You’ll get the chance to soar to new heights and not only get a panoramic view of the zoo but the entire San-Fran area. The views are absolutely spectacular.

At the top of the gondola, you’ll find the California Trail which features many amazing creatures including eagles, wolves, and bears.

18. Oklahoma City Zoo

Location: 2000 Remington PI, Oklahoma City, OK 73111

Many people revere Oklahoma City Zoo as the best zoo in Oklahoma. More than one million visitors cross their doors annually to see the selection of over 2,000 animals.

The zoo is popular for its many animals including primates and elephants. But it also has a whole host of stunning butterflies along with several tropical species such as snakes and turtles.

If feeding exotic animals has always been a dream of yours, that can become a reality here at Oklahoma Zoo too. With interactive experiences with birds,flamingos, giraffes, and rhinos available.

There’s also a train you can ride, a tram to transport you around the zoo, and a carousel where you can ride a whole range of exotic animals.

19. Oregon Zoo, Portland, Oregon

Location: 4001 Sw Canyon Rd, Portland, OR 97221

Oregon Zoo holds the crown as the very oldest zoo in America, opening its doors all the way back in 1888.

Initially, there were all but two bears in this zoo, now however, there are over 1,800 wild animals across 200 different species.

Overall, you’ll be able to explore 24 different exhibits in the zoo which are all based on the animals natural habitats.

Every summer the zoo hosts a variety of entertaining and educational shows and concerts that should not be missed.

In addition, you can also ride on the historic train or carousel or visit the family farm where interacting with some of the animals is easy and effortless.

20. Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, Cumberland, Ohio

Location: 14000 International Rd, Cumberland, OH 43732

If you’re looking for a fun-packed day filled with fun and thrills, then you’ve certainly come to the right place.

Columbus Zoo & Aquarium has endless opportunities for a great time. Honestly, there is so much here that you could easily spend more than one day at this fantastic zoo.

You get the chance to catch a glimpse of over 7,000 animals from all across the globe, seeing both those that inhabit the land and sea. And as if that won’t take up most of your day, there are plenty of other attractions here too.

First of all, there is a water park that has a whopping 17 different rides. Then, there is also an adjacent amusement park where you’ll have the chance to twist, turn, and twirl on 14 different roller coasters. Amazing, right?

Can you believe that I’m not even finished yet? Along with all of that, there are also options for a safari tour, or to trek through the zoo on horseback. And there’s even a zipline too.

With so much to do, it is definitely worth booking an overnight stay at the resort which by the way is absolutely exceptional.

21. Saint Louis Zoo, St. Louis, Missouri

Location: 1 Government Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110

If plenty of animals is what you want, then plenty of animals is what you’ll get here at Saint Louis Zoo.

The zoo homes a humongous 12,000 animals. Its primary focus at the zoo is to conserve and save as many endangered species as possible.

A walk through this zoo will allow you to see several different species in their natural habitats such as deserts, forests, water, and bird horse. And you can do all of this without spending a single dime – yes, that’s right, admission is totally free.

However, you will have to purchase tickets if you want to ride the carousel or take their famous railroad. Along with these attractions you’ll also find a 4-D theatre and several sea lion shows.

There is also an interactive stingray exhibit where you’ll get the chance to stroke a stingray.

Annual events such as the holiday lights show should certainly not be missed if you’re lucky enough to be visiting at the right time!

22. San Francisco Zoo, San Francisco, California

Location: Sloat Blvd &, Great Hwy, San Francisco, CA 94132

Is there any better place for a zoo than right by the ocean? I don’t think so. Well this ocean-side zoo homes over 1,000 beautiful creatures along with some stunning gardens that are accessible year-round.

Separated either by their geographical location or habitat, you’ll have the ability to walk through 20 wonderful exhibits and meet all the animals that call this zoo their home.

And there’s a little bit of the whole animal kingdom to see, from tiny insects to big brute bears, the majority can be found here.

If you are a lover of learning, I couldn’t recommend the guided walking tours enough. You’ll learn so many new and interesting facts about the animals that you never knew, along with all the history of the zoo and the plants that grow in the gardens.

Alongside the walking tours, there are also bike tours on offer as well as exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of the animals homes.

23. Zoo Miami, Miami, Florida

Location: 12400 SW 152nd St, Miami, FL 33177

You’ll find one of America’s wildest zoos here in Miami. Zoo Miami is spread along 700 acres of land and is home to over 3,000 animals.

It’s worth noting though, that half of the land is still undeveloped and actually makes up a really cool natural tropical rainforest.

There are plenty of exhibits on offer where you can see a wide variety of different species including alligators, panthers, otters, bears, and bald eagles. And that’s just in the Florida Exhibit.

There are also ample opportunities for interactivity with many of the animals. There are options to feed tortoises, rhinos, camels, giraffes, and parrots.

Make sure to speak to the local zookeeper too to learn more about the different conservation programmes that take place in the zoo.

24. Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Orlando, Florida

Location: 2901 Osceola Pkwy, Bay Lake, FL 34747

Found within Disney World Resort, you can be sure that your journey around the Animal Kingdom is sure to be filled with wonder and magic. This zoo sees millions of visitors each and every year.

As you can imagine, there are tons of great animals to see and spot while here. You’ll see many African and Asian animals and The Oasis exhibit offers animals such as boars and deer.

The health and wellbeing of the animals is at the forefront of the park’s mind and so noise is limited in this area of the park.

Additionally, only items that are biodegradable are available for purchase in any of the dining options. Items containing or made from plastic are completely prohibited.

As you’d come to expect from Disney, this is not all that is on offer. There is also an incredible dinosaur exhibit to check out, along with several rides, games, and shows.

25. Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Rock Creek Park, Washington D.C

Location: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, D.C

Smithsonian National Zoological Park, often known as National Zoo, is undoubtedly one of the very best zoos across the entire East Coast.

Admission to the zoo is completely free making it the perfect family day out on a budget. It is also one of the very few zoos to home Giant Pandas.

Along with these famous creatures, you’ll also have the option to see up to 2,000 other animals. And a variety of these animals are very rare and incredibly endangered species such as the Sumatran tigers, sarus cranes, and golden lion tamarins.

Be sure to check out what events are happening around your visit, as the zoo often hosts several different events including food and drink tastings.

The best event by far though is the overnight sleepover event where you’ll get to see what all your favorite animals get up to in the dark of night.

26. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Location: 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Located on a mountain around 7,000 feet above sea level, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo definitely offers a unique and unusual zoo experience. This is probably why it is amongst one of the very favorites across all the states.

You’ll get the chance to say hello to over 750 animals while visiting the zoo, 30 of which are currently listed as endangered species.

The zoo puts a great emphasis on conserving and breeding these animals to try and prevent extinction. Endangered animals you might see include mountain tapirs and black-footed ferrets.

There are plenty of options for interactive animal experiences where you can feed several animals including giraffes, elephants, rhinos, birds, goats and chickens.

There is also a goat petting zoo where you can stroke them and learn more from the zookeepers.

A peaceful and stunning way to end the day is to take the chairlift ride into the heights of the sky and peer down at the bountiful wildlife beneath you.

27. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Tampa, Florida

Location: 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612

Busch Gardens sees more than four million visitors walk through its doors each and every year. This immensely popular animal theme park is definitely worth a visit.

You’ll see a whole host of different animals during your time here including lions, lemurs, hippos, and hyenas. The free-flight home for more than 500 birds is definitely worth your time too.

And once you’ve got your animal fix for the day, the enjoyment doesn’t end there. Not even close. There are also many other super fun attractions such as roller coasters, waterpark rides, a tall drop tower, and a train.

There are also tons of different events going on throughout the year, especially during seasonal holidays such as Christmas. So be sure to check what’s on during your visit.

28. Bear Country USA, Rapid City, South Dakota

Location: 13820 US-16, Rapid City, SD 57702

This untraditional zoo is a little more like a safari park in that you won’t leave your car at any point during your visit.

Instead of taking a stroll through the exhibits, you’ll take a slow drive through the 3-mile park as many animals wander around you closeby.

This is so unique and different and is an experience you need to have at some point in your life.

You’ll drive past tons of different mammals, from elk and reindeer to goats and sheep, from cougars to buffalos, you’ll see them all up close and personal.

As you may have guessed from the zoo’s name, it is also the largest privately owned black bear collection. But this isn’t just across the United States, oh no, it’s the largest across the entire globe!

29. Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, Washington

Location: 5500 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103

Woodland Park Zoo is an award winning zoo that homes over 1000 different animals of over 300 species.

It is easily one of the very best zoos in America. The largest majority of the zoo is taken up by their amazing tropical animal area.

There are many other exhibits too such as the Asian and African animal exhibits where you’ll get the chance to say hello to the likes of bears, orangutans, pythons, rhinos, bears, giraffes, jaguars, monkeys and many more.

The zoo also offers several other activities such as food and drink tasting events, animal tours, musical events, and a brand-new dinosaur exhibit that features 20 life-like dinos.

30. Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis, Indiana

Location: 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222

Last but by no means least, we have Indianapolis Zoo. This huge zoo is home to a whopping 4,000 animals and over 300 different species. And over 1 million visitors walk through their doors annually.

There are several different exhibits to see such as the ocean, forest, and desert animals. Be sure to leave enough time to check out the Dolphin Pavillion where you’ll be treated to an array of different shows and a viewing area too.

You can also visit one of the most notorious orangutan exhibits where you’ll see them swinging from branches in their natural environment. This trip is sure to be very educational and a whole lot of fun.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are tons of amazing zoos to visit around America. There are so many animals waiting to introduce themselves to you. But why limit yourself to just one of these incredible zoos when you can visit a whole bunch of them!

I would certainly recommend visiting all of the zoos that are local to you. So many of them have additional attractions and a whole host of unique experiences that are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Alex Kallen
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