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Food and zoos in the US

You want a meal that is actually edible while visiting a zoo, rather than the usual overpriced concessions that rely on a captive audience.

Based on 469 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Staten Island Zoo image 1
Staten Island Zoo image 2
Staten Island Zoo image 3
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Zoo features lush greenery and thoughtfully designed exhibits that create an enchanting atmosphere with plenty of shade and benches. It offers family-friendly activities like a carousel, petting zoo, and interactive animal presentations. The layout feels like walking through a park, providing a peaceful and safe environment for visitors.

Food comes fresh and tastes good with reasonable prices compared to outside fast food. Staff serve meals in a timely manner and the overall quality is delicious.

Free admission after 2pm on Wednesdays makes visiting easy on the budget. The zoo features a reptile exhibit with rare animals like the Amur leopard and a carousel for kids. The layout is compact, so walking is minimal and suitable for young children.

People are saying

"It's a super cute small zoo, you can see everything in a couple hours."

"It's so fun for kids; my son loved the otters!"

"The food here was really good and delicious."

Good to know

1

Admission is free on Wednesdays after 2 PM, but it gets crowded.

2

Tickets are $10 for adults and $6 for children.

3

Only cash is accepted for payments at the zoo.

02
Como Park image 1

Zoo combines lush botanical walkways and peaceful lake views with well-maintained gardens and free admission. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing, inviting leisurely strolls and family visits. Design shows clear care, blending natural beauty with animal exhibits.

Food options include a cute little cafรฉ and various food trucks throughout the park. Prices tend to be a little high, with proceeds supporting the zoo.

A sanctuary with incredible wildlife and habitats that prioritize animal well-being. It offers a diverse range of species including primates, big cats, and aquatic animals, with many animals visible and active.

People are saying

"I loved this little zoo; it's a family favorite."

"It's a great place for picnics with plenty of open parkland."

"You can find numerous spots for great food and drinks."

Good to know

1

Admission to Como Park Zoo is free or available through a donation of your choice.

2

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The Bonsai festival attracts large crowds, especially on Mother's Day.

03
Rocky Shores at Hogle Zoo image 1

Rocky Shores offers naturalistic enclosures with underwater viewing windows that showcase sea lions, seals, and bears in spacious habitats. The atmosphere is relaxing and family-friendly, with educational animal shows and areas to cool down. The design balances elegance and accessibility, making it engaging without feeling overwhelming.

Food options include spots to sit and rest while eating. Buying food supports the programs and animal inhabitants. Visitors enjoy food alongside the exhibits and animals.

Clean and modern exhibits include the Rocky Shores habitat, offering close views of sea lions, seals, and bears in a naturalistic setting. Live shows like the bird, dog, and bug shows provide educational entertainment, while seasonal Zoo Lights sculptures add visual interest.

People are saying

"It's really Kid Friendly, especially the polar bear and train!"

"I found the fun activities here to be captivating for all ages."

"I enjoyed the food during my visit."

Good to know

1

The polar bear exhibit is currently closed for care and maintenance.

2

Expect some exhibits to be closed for repairs during your visit.

3

Admission is considered pricey compared to other local zoos.

04
Hogan's Place Gibsonton Florida image 1

Small farm with petting zoo, pony rides, and interactive play areas creates a cozy, peaceful atmosphere. Spacious, well-kept grounds offer plenty of room for kids to run and explore. Clean environment combines with charming photo spots and a covered barn for games and music.

Food costs about $5, making it affordable. Options include candy and various dishes available alongside live music and entertainment.

Clean and well-organized, this petting zoo offers a wide variety of animals and plenty of chances for close, hands-on encounters. It provides a family-friendly environment that entertains toddlers and older kids alike.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly; you can ride ponies and feed baby goats."

"I loved holding the bunnies and feeding the friendly animals at this petting zoo."

"The food here is really affordable."

Good to know

1

Admission is $5 per person, and children 2 and under enter for free.

2

Parking is free at Hogan's Place.

3

There are many fun activities for children, including an interactive play area.

05
Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park image 1

Spacious grounds with dirt walking paths and natural enclosures create a down-to-earth, wild atmosphere. Visitors encounter close animal interactions and enjoy amenities like a skyride and tram rides that offer broad views of the park. The environment balances shade and open areas, though occasional loud air traffic is noticeable.

Sprawling grounds require walking shoes to explore the diverse animal collection not found in other local zoos. Annual passes offer great value for families during key learning years.

People are saying

"I loved feeding the giraffes at the Zoo."

"The aquarium has lots of animals, like sharks and parrots."

"The giraffes came over to the elevated viewing area to receive food."

Good to know

1

Bring cash as credit card purchases incur a 4% charge.

2

The rides require additional payment beyond the entrance fee.

3

Most shows happen before 1PM, so plan accordingly.

06
Milwaukee County Zoo image 1

Spacious zoo with thoughtfully designed habitats and natural scenery that feels like a forest in the city. Atmosphere ranges from family-oriented and festive to quiet and uncrowded, offering a relaxed pace. Features include a sky lift and train rides providing unique views of animals and park layout.

Food options include both onsite choices and the ability to bring your own. Events often feature food, drinks, and music, adding to the experience.

Visitors can go behind the scenes to feed the oldest turtle in the zoo. The zoo offers a family-friendly atmosphere with events like Boo at the Zoo and is known for being a great place for kids.

People are saying

"It's a blast for my kids to head to the zoo."

"The lights were bright and full of colors, making it a fun night."

"There were plenty of food and drink options available."

Good to know

1

Admission costs $20 for adults and $18 for children.

2

Parking costs $15 per vehicle.

3

Wild Lights event runs from late November to early January.

07
Bronx Zoo image 1

Open enclosures create naturalistic habitats that immerse visitors in animal environments. Spacious grounds feature continental-themed sections with manicured landscapes and distinctive architecture. Attractions like the Wild Asia Monorail and interactive exhibits add variety to the experience.

Multiple food stations offer hot foods throughout the area. A petting zoo section lets kids feed animals by exchanging coins for animal food.

A family-friendly zoo with a long history of visitors across generations. It offers an educational and fun experience that many find memorable and worth returning to.

People are saying

"I thought the Zoo was beautiful and an amazing place."

"You'll need walking shoes for this huge outdoor space."

"I found the food here to be simply world-class."

Good to know

1

Wednesdays are free general admission days at the Bronx Zoo.

2

On Wednesdays, I can get free admission from 5 PM if I purchase the ticket online.

3

The penguin feedings are at 3:30 PM.

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