Alabama: Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, located in Gulf Shores
Visit for the shores, remain for the charm. Gulf Coast Zoo With a spooky reptile house (where you have the chance to touch the snakes!), tiny kangaroo joeys, and more than 500 distinctive displays, it’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Be sure not to skip the popular sloth section, where visitors can interact with and stroke the adorable animals. If you're unable to visit the zoo yet still adore furry critters more than humans, consider adding Add one of these animal-inspired presents to your Christmas list. .
Alaska: The Alaska Zoo, Anchorage
There’s something beary special about the Alaska Zoo Not only does this zoo stand as the sole one in the north, but it also boasts a brand-new Polar Bear Transition Center. Completed by the nonprofit organization in 2016, this exclusive center focuses on rehabilitating abandoned polar bear cubs found in nature until they recover fully (it even includes a specific area designed for expectant mother polar bears). When visiting, be sure to greet Cranbeary, who is the latest member of the zoo’s collection of bears.
Arizona: The Reid Park Zoo in Tucson
TripAdvisor calls this small-but-mighty zoo A "secret treasure" of the Grand Canyon State. The zoo initially opened in the 1960s and has grown and extended over time. For example, in April 2019 In 2014, Reid Park Zoo created history by being the location where the first-ever elephant was born in Arizona. Additionally, a new exhibit designed like a Mayan temple has been established to serve as a home for four spider monkeys. Discover more. 50 amazing tidbits about the 50 states .
Arkansas: Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo, located in Hot Springs
Embrace your inner Steve Irwin at the Arkansas Alligator Farm In Hot Springs, you can strike a pose for the ideal photo alongside a baby alligator. Should you prefer not to handle them directly (which we completely understand), you can opt to feed the alligators using meat-tipped sticks instead, or make your way to the petting zoo For all those heartwarming moments with baby goats, emus, and even more adorable creatures.
California: San Diego Zoo
Have you ever thought about what it's like to work as a zookeeper? You can find out through the "Zookeeper for a Day" program at the facility. San Diego Zoo Choose between caring for koalas or giraffes, then follow a zookeeper as they nourish and interact with the creatures and arrange their living spaces. You'll have the chance to enter the animal enclosures and engage in some manual labor. Wear cargo pants and a safari hat if you like, but these aren’t mandatory.
Colorado: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, located in Colorado Springs
While Denver boasts being the Mile High City, Colorado Springs offers an equally remarkable attraction: the country's largest group of giraffes! Observe these 16 majestic creatures playfully roaming their grassland environment, purchase a painting made by the animals—think stamped hooves—or perhaps feed them some romaine lettuce yourself. Don’t let their strikingly long, purplish-black tongues—which can extend up to two feet—startle you! Come see for yourself. Facts about U.S. states that frequently trip people up .
Connecticut: Beardsley Zoo, Bridgeport
Great things can be found in tiny containers. As seen with Beardsley Zoo in Connecticut (the state’s only zoo!). It may not be the biggest in terms of area, but has more than enough to offer in terms of animals and entertainment. Walk through the tropical rainforest as birds swoop by overhead, fawn over Reka and Zeya, the two new Amur tiger cubs, or take a spin on the indoor carousel, where you can even adopt one of the merry-go-round animals to have your name engraved on it.
Delaware: Brandywine Zoo, Delaware
“New year, new zoo” is the motto at this Wilmington family-friendly attraction, where they recently unveiled a new red panda exhibit for zoo favorites Rochan and Meri complete with a bamboo forest and swings for the critters to play in. It’s all part of the zoo’s The $13 million master plan encompasses 17 new exhibitions, increased visitor activities, and introduces an animal hospital for rescued or injured wildlife. It seems like your next summer destination might just be set!
Florida: Zoo Miami
This is the sole subtropical zoo located within the United States, making it quite distinctive. Miami must-see Homes more than 500 animal species and approximately 1,200 distinct types of plants. Notable attractions feature the Kaziranga Camp Rhino Encounter, allowing visitors to feed and interact with the park’s single-horned Indian rhinos, as well as the Mission Everglades exhibit, which offers boat rides through Florida’s marsh-like wilderness. Here, guests could catch sight of a bald eagle flying above or an alligator cruising alongside the watercraft! Explore The coziest quaint town within every state .
Georgia: Zoo Atlanta
There's plenty to appreciate here. Zoo Atlanta , like the giant panda View the exhibit (it’s among just four zoos in the U.S. featuring these adorable critters!) or participate in the Wild Encounters, which allow visitors to go backstage and personally hand-feed their favorite animals such as elephants or even lions. However, one of the most recent attractions that both kids and adults adore is the Treeton Trail—a suspended rope bridge above the zoo that culminates in an exhilarating zip line descent to the ground below.
Hawaii: The Panaewa Rainforest Zoo, located in Hilo
Imagine believing you must travel all the way to South America to explore a genuine rainforest? Think twice. Once you enter, this Hawaii hotspot At this unique tropical zoo in the United States, located in what feels like the heart of the Amazon, you'll be encircled by towering orchids, dense bamboo forests, and around 80 distinct animal varieties. As you meander through the lush rainforest environment—which receives more than 125 inches of rainfall annually—you can observe spider monkeys and lemurs leaping among the branches and enjoy the vibrant calls of vividly colored parrots.
Idaho: Yellowstone Bear World, located in Rexburg
No visit to Yellowstone is complete without stopping at this drive-through —We're not referring to getting a Happy Meal here. In this location, you have the opportunity to traverse the Rocky Mountains and observe wildlife such as bison, white-tailed deer, wolves, and even grizzly bears roaming freely. For those who dare, after your adventure, you might also get to touch and feed one of the young bear cubs!
Illinois: Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield
Along with these 20 treats you’re never too old for , nobody ever outgrows the joy of visiting the zoo. For instance? In Chicago’s Brookfield Zoo , you can grab a drink to enjoy as you walk around. Remember, staying hydrated is important as you explore the 250-acre area featuring fantastic exhibitions such as the famous Tropic World, home to primates including orangutans and gorillas, or the Australia House, where—you guessed it—bats soar above your head freely.
Indiana: Indianapolis Zoo
You may not consider Indiana a place for interacting with dolphins, but you can actually do so at this location. Indianapolis Zoo When visiting, make sure to take advantage of the opportunity to feed and interact with the marine mammals. Don’t forget to meet Aurora and Pakak—the Pacific walruses; they are among just eleven such creatures in North American zoos. If you go, definitely want to actually Swimming with dolphins? Find out where you can do that, along with 17 additional once-in-a-lifetime experiences. .
Iowa: Blank Park Zoo, located in Des Moines
If you're searching for the top zoo in Iowa—and indeed, the sole accredited one—there’s no need to look farther than this place. Blank Park Zoo Just outside of Des Moines lies your destination. The first item on your list should be Hub Harbor for the sea lion performance, featuring captivating stunts as the young seals leap from the water. Afterward, explore the remainder of the park; perhaps take a turn on the vintage carousel or opt instead for an exhilarating $10 camel ride.
Kansas: Sedgwick County Zoo, located in Wichita
Is that Dumbo? Featuring an enormous elephant enclosure with a capacity of 550,000 gallons, the Zambezi River Valley exhibit at this location offers a remarkable environment. Kansas zoo Is the third-largest in the nation and houses a herd of seven large African elephants. Should you find yourself captivated by one of the adopted safari animals, you have the option to become a Zoo Pal and "sponsor" one as your very own!
Kentucky: The Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo, Located in Horse Cave
Hey there! Head down under to do this. Australian-themed park In the heart of Kentucky, you can enjoy petting kangaroos, feeding rainbow lorikeets, and seeing an incredibly rare white bison. Afterward, take a guided tour through Mammoth Onyx Cave to discover actual cave cauliflower and breathtaking stalactites. Should this experience inspire your desire to see authentic Australia afterward, Here are the top travel spots in the nation. .
Louisiana: Audubon Zoo in New Orleans
You could be right at the center of New Orleans, but once you enter through the gates, Audobon Zoo As soon as you arrive, you'll find yourself immersed in the Lowcountry marshland atmosphere. Walk beneath the hanging Spanish moss where legendary albino alligators navigate their way through the dark water, and observe critically endangered whooping cranes gliding above. Don’t forget to visit the Jaguar Jungle before leaving to catch sight of felines and bats.
Maine: York’s Wild Kingdom
Discuss the concept of a one-stop shop. In the town of York, this idea comes alive. Wild Kingdom On the New England coastline, you'll find all your desires fulfilled in a single location: a zoo, an amusement park, an 18-hole mini-golf course, paddleboat rentals, and even a spooky haunted house—there truly is something for everybody here. However, if you must pick just one highlight to see, it would be Rewa, the sole white Bengal tiger at the zoo and the only such animal in the entire state.
Maryland: The Maryland Zoo, located in Baltimore
Part fauna, part history lesson (established in 1876), this place combines both elements. Maryland Zoo In Baltimore’s Druid Hill Park lies the country’s third oldest zoo. Although every one of the 160 acres deserves exploration, families with young children should particularly make their way to the acclaimed Children’s Zoo, which offers a plethora of engaging activities, exciting play areas for climbing, and opportunities for interactive experiences such as feeding giraffes or petting goats.
Massachusetts: The Franklin Park Zoo located in Boston
Believe zoos are only meant for children? Think again. Franklin Park Zoo In Boston, for example, there are various events tailored for adults (and sometimes these events can be quite adult-oriented). only Throughout the year, various events take place, such as wine tasting sessions and the yearly Brew at the Zoo festival. For those with children, explore the open-flight areas like the vibrantly colored Butterfly Hollow or the Aussie Aviary, where birds may perch on your arm!
Michigan: Detroit Zoo, located in Royal Oak
There are typical penguin exhibitions, and then there’s the one at the Detroit Zoo In Michigan, the Polk Penguin Conservation Center stands as the largest penguin facility globally, housing more than 75 birds across four distinct species within its 326,000-gallon habitat. Visitors can admire these creatures through an underwater tunnel. For those who have a slight obsession with penguins, consider the following: 13 facts you probably weren't aware of regarding the penguin species .
Minnesota: Como Park Zoo, located in St. Paul
The Como Park Zoo That's precisely where you ought to find yourself on any given Thursday if you reside in the vicinity of Minnesota. This is due to the fact that each Thursday throughout April, the zoo organizes its Lil' Explorer event, allowing children an exclusive look at the animals, storytime sessions, and engaging educational activities. As an added bonus, both the zoo and conservatory offer free admission, enabling you and your little ones to discover all 25 distinct exhibitions afterwards.
Mississippi: Hattiesburg Zoo
"I don't enjoy sloths," said nobody ever. That’s precisely why the Sloth Encounter at the Hattiesburg Zoo Serving as a significant attraction, who wouldn't be eager to interact and cuddle these adorable animals firsthand? Besides getting the chance to prepare meals for the sloths, visitors will have the opportunity to gain knowledge about them from a skilled zookeeper. For those unable to make the trip, tuning into the Sloth Cam online offers a glimpse of Maple, the young sloth born during the recent summertime.
Missouri: St. Louis Zoo
The best zoo In Missouri, it's essentially a solo performance—or should we say, a one-person show? bear Visitors come from across the state to visit Kali (pronounced "Cully"), the 1,150-pound polar bear who was saved from Alaska's wilds in 2013 when he was just a cub. At age five, he has turned into an attraction at McDonnell Polar Bear Point, drawing crowds to see him. You and your children have the special opportunity here to sleep in sleeping bags right under the underwater viewing area of his habitat! Take a look. 50 Lesser-Known Treasures in Each State .
Montana: ZooMontana, Billings
Nestled amidst the stunning landscape of the Rocky Mountains, ZooMontana takes pride in describing itself as more of a habitat than a traditional zoo. Montana must-visit It primarily features northern creatures such as wolves, bears, and tigers living in settings that closely mimic their natural homes. For children aspiring to work with wild animals someday, there’s an opportunity to act as a junior zookeeper for a day, complete with a souvenir patch and certificate to keep.
Nebraska: Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha
Two words—Desert Dome: This display at theصند Henry Doorly Zoo It is the world's largest indoor desert (and it features the planet's biggest geodesic dome), making it an essential addition to your Midwest must-see list. Explore various warm, dry environments modeled after African, Asian, and Southern U.S. landscapes; here, you can observe creatures like cobras, bobcats, rattlesnakes, among others. For some relief from the heat, head beneath the desert to the Kingdoms of the Night exhibit, which will introduce you to a variety of nocturnal wildlife.
Nevada: Sierra Safari Zoo in Reno
The wildest spot in Nevada pales compared to the chaos of the Las Vegas Strip. Sierra Safari Zoo The Reno park boasts a variety of exotic creatures, including six distinct monkey species and eight types of wild felines. It provides sanctuary for these animals without a home, be it rescued from research facilities or closed zoos. Make sure not to overlook the stunning white tigers that enjoy basking in sunlight during pleasant weather.
New Hampshire: Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, located in Holderness
If anywhere can make education enjoyable, it’s this place. The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center Tucked away in New Hampshire, begin your exploration with a stroll along the exhibition path (expect this to take between two and three hours as you meander past various wildlife areas—bring a picnic lunch for sustenance!). Afterward, hop onto a boat cruise around the adjacent lake. Should the little ones still be full of beans after these activities, channel their excess energy at the children’s center, featuring an enormous climbing structure shaped like a spiderweb.
Cape May County Park & Zoo is located in New Jersey.
The acreage totals: 200. The animal count exceeds 550. Entry cost: Absolutely worth it. There’s nothing quite like an exhilarating (and free!) day trip to make your day complete. Cape May County Park and Zoo Open daily except on Christmas, this zoo features popular attractions like the ring-tailed lemur group, stunning snow leopards, and rare red pandas. Don’t miss the reptile and amphibian house, which houses vibrantly colored poison dart frogs. Discover more about these exhibits when you visit. top state fair or celebration in every state .
New Mexico: Albuquerque Zoo
One of the benefits of the Albuquerque Zoo The range of programs available daily at the facility includes various family-oriented events such as feeding sessions for animals, storytelling led by zookeepers, and opportunities to interact with alpacas and llamas. Don’t miss out on visiting the Carnivores exhibit, which showcases some of Earth’s most formidable hunters ranging from polar bears to jaguars.
New York: Bronx Zoo
When it pertains to the Bronx Zoo the question is not about what activities are available, but rather what isn’t There's plenty to see at this bustling urban zoo, which houses more than 6,000 creatures. From vibrant feathered friends flitting about in the aviary to majestic tigers potentially lurking beneath your path along the Wild Asia monorail, every corner offers something new. For those who dare, venture into the World of Reptiles where a massive anaconda awaits among other intriguing critters.
North Carolina: The North Carolina Zoo located in Asheboro
Who could have imagined that the planet's biggest natural habitat? zoo Is tucked away in the quaint town of Asheboro, North Carolina? You will surely require an entire day to discover everything this park has to offer, ranging from a journey through the savannas via the Zoofari ride to meeting Yura, the recently welcomed wild polar bear. If you're curious about what gems other states might be concealing, Take a look at this collection of hidden gems in each state.
North Dakota: Red River Zoo, located in Fargo
While the Red River Zoo boasts more than 300 creatures across 75 distinct species, with a particular focus on endangered animals such as Pallas cats and recently introduced black-footed ferrets. Under the Species Survival Plan, this zoo stands out as the sole facility capable of breeding specific rare species, ensuring an ongoing supply of charming newborns, including the brood of Pallas' cats born last spring. Below are 11 exotic creatures you might not have known were threatened with extinction .
Ohio: Cincinnati Zoo
Next time you visit Cincinnati, you might frequently hear people mention Fiona, as this charming 1,000-pound hippo is quite popular locally. Delivered prematurely but rehabilitated publicly, she gained worldwide fame and internet stardom, complete with her very own television program at the Cincinnati Zoo. zoo . Indeed, it’s titled "The Fiona Show."
Oklahoma: Oklahoma City Zoo
Explore the foggy rainforests during your journey Oklahoma City Zoo As you look for vibrant orangutans, leaping chimps, and the most popular attraction—the pair of gorilla groups residing in the zoo’s Great Ape exhibit—you might also consider heading toward the Island Life section if a Caribbean vibe suits you better than an Asian forest feel. Here, you can spot pink flamingos, boa constrictors, and the impressive Galapagos tortoises.
Oregon: The Oregon Zoo, located in Portland,
Portland is renowned for its eccentricity, so it comes as no surprise that its zoo also stands out with its distinct character. Rather than featuring African elephants, the Oregon Zoo Over the past five decades, she has committed herself to breeding and saving Asian elephants, known for their smaller size and lower numbers. For example, consider Chendra, a 25-year-old female who stands as the sole Borneo pygmy elephant residing in the United States today.
Pennsylvania: Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Zoo boasts the distinction of being the nation's oldest zoo, having opened more than 150 years ago. Today, it remains vibrant, featuring notable attractions such as Big Cat Falls, where visitors can observe leopards, lions, and tigers roaming freely, and Carnivore Kingdom, which was the birthplace of the first white lion cub in the U.S.
Rhode Island: The Roger Williams Park Zoo, located in Providence
Interestingly enough, some of the best features of Rhode Island’s sole zoo Aren’t even related to animals. For instance, at Carousel Village, children have the opportunity to enjoy a ride on the historical carousel, hop about in the bouncy castle, or experience a pony trek within the park. Additionally, there’s the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, which showcases more than a quarter-million archaeological artifacts and fossils.
Riverbanks Zoo is located in Columbia, South Carolina.
Not every person from South Carolina lives on sweet tea. There are others, such as the charming marsupials at the Riverbank Zoo 'Sir' Koala Knockout display favors eucalyptus leaves. Meanwhile, creatures such as the harbor seals at Sea Lion Cove have a preference for slippery raw fish. When planning your day, aim to schedule visits according to the timed feeding sessions and interactive events to ensure close-up interactions with the animals of interest.
South Dakota: Bear Country USA, located in Rapid City
Buckle up, bear-seeking adventurers. As you drive the three miles through the aptly-named Bear Country park Keep an eye out for elk, wolves, and bears. If you're fortunate, you might spot some adorable cubs frolicking in the hills as their mother watches over them.
Tennessee: Memphis Zoo
You'll have to reserve nearly five hours to make your way through the animal-packed paradise that is the Memphis Zoo Make sure to visit the latest exhibition, Zambezi River Hippo Camp, where Nile crocodiles lounge on the sunlit shores as vibrant pink flamingos and voracious hippos play in the water. During the colder months when you're at the zoo, grab your skates and glide around the ice rink illuminated by one million festive lights.
Texas: San Antonio Zoo
If there’s one thing about this Texan situation, zoo What they want you to do is head outdoors and have some fun. This location in San Antonio houses the Kronkosky Charitable Foundation’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot, which is the country's premier children’s zoo designed exclusively for those under five years old. Here, various special activities await that can engage small children for an extended period. Join a bug hunt, prepare snacks for monkeys (and see them relish their treat), or scurry through underground passages as though you were a prairie dog.
Utah: Hogle Zoo, located in Salt Lake City
Envision yourself face-to-face with a scarce snow leopard, with a Siberian lynx close by. This is precisely what you will encounter at Utah’s finest attraction. zoo , where the Asian Highlands display highlights some of the globe’s most breathtaking (and critically endangered) large cats. Observe them leaping and roaming within the replicated Himalayan Village, before moving on to Grandma’s House where you can gain insights into these formidable felines from, yes, an amusing grandmother who will also share one or two folktales with you. Make sure not to overlook this part. weirdest roadside attraction in each state .
Vermont: ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington
The nearest place resembling a real zoo in Vermont is the ECHO Leahy Center It leans more towards being an aquarium rather than an animal kingdom. However, despite having fewer cuddly creatures, it compensates with engaging and informative activities suitable for everyone. You can observe a daily snake feeding session, engage in the touch tank experience at the tidal pool area, or participate in an instructive VR game aimed at rescuing Lake Champlain.
Virginia: Metro Richmond Zoo, Mosely
Get acquainted with Kumbali and Kago, the unexpected pair who share this space. Metro Richmond Zoo At home (alongside more than 2,000 other creatures) lies a duo that captures the affection of everyone who visits. The uniqueness of this pair stems from their composition: Kumbali is a young cheetah, whereas Kago is a playful pup. Rescued by the zoo back in 2015, these two have formed an unbreakable bond and visiting them at the Virginia park is highly recommended. However, should your plans not align for a visit, Here are 50 incredibly charming puppy pictures that are nearly as endearing. .
Seattle: Woodland Park Zoo, Washington
Located in Seattle’s Phinney Ridge district, this 92-acre area is situated. zoo is renowned for its conservation initiatives, working tirelessly to protect wildlife and their natural environments globally. In the zoo located in Washington, you can observe endangered orangutans swinging through the simulated rainforest above, and join in celebrating your beloved creature. birthday (The zoo provides each of its inhabitants, including the rhinos, with their very own "cakes!"), or come see the newly arrived rare red panda cubs, Zeya and Ila.
West Virginia: The West Virginia Zoo, located in Kingwood.
Previously known as Hovatter’s Wildlife Zoo, this wildlife destination is just as exciting and enchanting as West Virginia's motto suggests. Operating annually from April through October, it stands out as one of the top attractions in the state. zoo This experience is essential for those eager to interact closely with the animals. Purchase a pack of snacks to hand-feed the monkeys and giraffes—some of which have gained fame appearing in commercials, advertisements, and even films—and consider getting photographed alongside the lion cubs.
Madison is home to the Henry Vilas Zoo in Wisconsin.
When the Vilas family gifted the land for the zoo to the city of Madison in honor of their son, they made only one condition: the zoo should never impose an entry fee. Consequently, visitors can enjoy spending either a full day or just a few hours at the park without paying anything; this applies equally among the ten zoos offering free admission. For your information, the latest addition to the zoo—and also its biggest attraction—is called Arctic Passage, which includes underwater views where you can see polar bears, seals, and grizzly bears.
Wyoming: Kindness Ranch Animal Sanctuary, located in Hartsville
Did you know? Wyoming doesn’t have an official zoo. However, there’s a special haven for animal enthusiasts located here. Kindness Ranch Animal Sanctuary Nestled within Platte County, this place stands as the sole refuge in the entire nation dedicated to rehabilitating various former research and laboratory animals—from felines to equines. It serves as their healing ground. Keep in mind that you must make a reservation should you wish to stay overnight in one of the available yurts onsite. For more information, explore further below. weirdest creature in every state .
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