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Zoos in the United States

Made for those who only visit a zoo if they are guaranteed to find something genuinely interesting.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Animal EDventure Park & Safari image 1
Animal EDventure Park & Safari image 2
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Wildlife and safari park

Wildlife park offers intimate animal encounters with kangaroos, sloths, and otters in a family-oriented, welcoming atmosphere. The setting is immaculately maintained and decorated with festive seasonal themes, creating a personal and engaging experience for all ages.

Walkthrough safari tours feature zebras, camels, monkeys, and capybaras with chances to feed many animals. VIP tours include an otter swim experience and showcase a large variety of animals cared for with genuine love.

Friendly and passionate staff share many interesting animal facts. The experience feels both informative and fun for adults.

People are saying

"The guides here are so knowledgeable and make the fun activities really special."

"The park guides are so knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the animals."

"The tour guides share so many interesting facts about the animals."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, so visitors should book in advance.

2

Denim jeans are required attire for visitors.

3

You should not show up early because you are held at the gate outside until your check-in time.

02
Orange County Zoo image 1

Zoo sits within a large park shaded by tree canopy, creating a peaceful family atmosphere. Enclosures feature water elements and offer clear views of animals like jaguars and mountain lions. A petting zoo with goats and pony rides adds interactive experiences for children.

Entry costs just $2, making it very affordable. The zoo is small and family friendly, easy to walk, and great for kids.

Lots of interesting animals live here, many of which are rescues. The zoo also features some unique reptiles and exhibits that catch attention.

People are saying

"I found the zoo to be a fun place with a great petting zoo."

"I thought the zoo was affordable, with entry costing only $2."

"It's interesting how great it is for kids to pet and feed goats."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is only $2 per person, with children under 2 entering for free.

2

Parking costs $5 per car, but finding a spot can be challenging.

3

The zoo hosts community events like Star Wars day that are enjoyable for the whole family.

03
Snake Discovery: A Reptile Experience image 1

Space combines spacious, naturalistic enclosures with a welcoming, family-like atmosphere. Interactive experiences include holding snakes and engaging activities for all ages. The environment balances entertaining education with a beautifully designed, well-maintained setting.

A variety of animals fills the zoo, both inside the store and in the exhibits. The layout is well put together, and educators like Brooke lead engaging experiences during events.

Animal exhibits feature interesting creatures with detailed info on their names, habits, and diets. The facility offers a well-done zoo experience with many animals to meet.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly; you can even hold a snake!"

"The zoo staff are so knowledgeable and friendly."

"The variety of reptiles and amphibians here is really interesting."

Good to know

1

Free guided tours are available, allowing visitors to see and touch reptiles.

2

Birthday parties can be booked, providing a unique and fun experience.

3

The 5:00 tour is popular and often well-attended.

04
Great Lakes Serpentarium image 1

Small building hosts hands-on reptile experiences with snakes, tortoises, and an iguana greeter. Atmosphere feels interactive and educational, with knowledgeable staff engaging visitors closely. Free-roaming tortoise and unique reptile variety add distinct character to the space.

Animals receive better care than in typical zoos. The reptile section is run in a fun way that adds to the experience.

Many interesting snake breeds fill the facility, with plenty available for holding. The place showcases a variety of unique species that make the visit both educational and engaging.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly; you can even hold snakes!"

"The staff here are super chill and know a ton about the snakes."

"I held multiple snakes and pet an iguana here."

Good to know

1

The Serpentarium closes at 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect to pay a higher entrance fee for the unique experience offered.

3

Credit card payments may incur an additional fee, so check beforehand.

05
LegaSea Aquarium & The Reptarium image 1

Aquarium and reptile exhibits showcase interactive animal encounters with opportunities to hold snakes, turtles, and other creatures. Spacious, well-lit displays feature rare aquatic animals and vibrant tropical fish. Crowds gather for stingray feeding shows, creating a lively atmosphere amid carefully designed exhibits.

Reptile exhibits feature active animals and knowledgeable keepers. The zoo offers an educational and fun experience with friendly staff and great value compared to other attractions.

Wide variety of interesting creatures fills the space, including a huge eel that draws attention. Visitors can interact with animals and learn educational facts up close.

People are saying

"It's a great kid-friendly place for amazing aquatic life."

"The Zoo staff here are so friendly and passionate about their work."

"The staff shared interesting facts and let me hold snakes."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for events, especially during busy times.

2

Daily events include reptile feedings every hour.

3

Limited tickets are available to manage crowd sizes and ensure safety.

06
Cougar Mountain Zoo image 1

Small zoo set in hills with beautiful views and unique animal sculptures. Calm atmosphere with intimate, uncrowded spaces encourages focused learning and relaxed exploration. Offers interactive feeding experiences and kid-friendly activities alongside well-designed exhibits.

Small size makes it easy to explore without much walking. Offers interactive experiences like feeding reindeer for an extra fee. Great for families with young kids and features educational programming.

Smaller size and calmer atmosphere make it easy to see interesting animals without crowds. Keeper talks and mini lectures every 30 minutes share animal behavior stories and informative facts.

People are saying

"I found the zoo to be small but very clean and well maintained."

"It's so fun feeding the animals here!"

"It's got an interesting collection of unusual animals like lemurs and macaws."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $18 per person, with free admission for children under 2.

2

Animal feeding and educational lectures occur every 30 minutes throughout the day.

3

The reindeer festival is a popular holiday event featuring special activities.

07
Popcorn Park Animal Refuge image 1

Animal sanctuary with wide paths and plenty of shade offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere that feels warm and welcoming. Kids run freely while peacocks roam everywhere, adding a unique charm. Picnic areas and benches provide spots to rest, making it ideal for families and children.

Rescue animals at this zoo are unusually friendly and easy to see up close. The size suits young kids well, making it great for family visits and birthday parties.

Clean, well maintained grounds create an organized layout that appeals to both children and adults. Informative displays about rescued animals add an engaging educational element to the exhibits.

People are saying

"I thought the zoo was a wonderful place for kids."

"I found the entrance fee to be very affordable."

"It's interesting reading the stories of the rescued animals."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $10 per person.

2

As of September 2023, they no longer sell popcorn to feed animals.

3

The park is stroller friendly for families with young children.

08
Prospect Park Zoo image 1

Free roaming peacocks and a petting zoo create an interactive, relaxed atmosphere. Trails wind through well-designed enclosures blending into natural surroundings. The vibe stays easygoing with comfortable walking and minimal crowds.

Small size makes it easy to explore with over 150 animals and 400 species on display. Exhibits mix indoor and outdoor placements with well-maintained pens and knowledgeable staff.

Small size hosts many interesting animals including exotic species. Monkeys stand out as the most engaging residents.

People are saying

"It's a nice, small zoo, perfect for young kids."

"You've got to see the puppet show at these parks; it's surprisingly good."

"The animals here are so interesting to observe and learn about."

Good to know

1

Buy tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.

2

The sea lion show occurs two to three times daily, depending on the season.

3

Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for children aged 3 to 12.

09
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.

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.

Exhibits offer interesting displays that engage both adults and kids. The experience stays entertaining despite limited information about animals.

People are saying

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

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

"It's an interesting place for families and animal lovers."

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.

10
Staten Island Zoo image 1

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.

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.

Small size combines with well laid out indoor exhibits to showcase a variety of interesting animals. Settings for the animals add to the overall engaging experience, especially for 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!"

"I found the animals here really interesting, especially for kids."

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.

11
Old Los Angeles Zoo image 1

Abandoned animal cages and overgrown paths create a hauntingly beautiful and mysterious vibe. Graffiti and street art add an urban grit that contrasts with the peaceful, quiet atmosphere. The site feels like a hidden spot with great photo opportunities and space for relaxed walks or picnics.

Abandoned enclosures and old animal cages create a hauntingly beautiful and atmospheric setting. Trails wind through the area offering well-groomed paths for hiking and biking with views of the city.

Old animal enclosures and abandoned cages stand out along the walking trail. The site offers interesting history and views into areas where animals once hid.

People are saying

"It's cool exploring the old abandoned zoo enclosures."

"I found the abandoned zoo hauntingly beautiful and atmospheric."

"It's interesting to explore the old animal enclosures and deserted exhibits."

Good to know

1

Parking is usually available nearby, and it's free.

2

Nearby restrooms are accessible at the Old L.A. Zoo.

3

The site is perfect for photographers or families seeking something offbeat outdoors.

12
Brookfield Zoo image 1

Spacious, immersive animal exhibits combine with interactive experiences like giraffe feeding and a Ferris wheel offering great views. The atmosphere feels lively and family-friendly, with many young people and children enjoying playgrounds and shaded rest areas. Well-designed enclosures and vibrant lighting create a beautiful, engaging environment throughout.

This zoo offers a fun and educational experience with a variety of animals and exhibits. It has a long-standing reputation for being a favorite spot for families and animal lovers alike.

Many interactive exhibits rotate regularly, keeping the experience fresh. The new primate area has metal tunnels for animals to move inside or outside. Random peacocks roam freely, adding to the unique atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Zoo has so many animals and fun shows for kids."

"The outdoor space features naturalistic habitats for animals like gorillas and flamingos."

"The exhibits here are really interesting and interactive."

Good to know

1

Admission is $30 per person, with parking costing an additional $17.

2

Parking can fill up quickly, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Several major exhibits, including the elephant and primate houses, are currently closed.

13
Sustainable Safari image 1

Indoor zoo combines family-friendly atmosphere with interactive animal encounters like feeding goats and holding baby kangaroos. Space feels small but well-organized, with playful decorations and a calming, fun vibe throughout.

Small zoo offers a variety of species including iguanas, armadillos, guinea pigs, prairie dogs, and a binturong. It stays clean and provides an affordable experience compared to larger zoos.

Many interesting animals appear throughout the experience. The afternoon offers a fun and engaging atmosphere with a variety of creatures to see.

People are saying

"It's so fun to interact with and feed the animals here."

"The animals at this zoo seemed happy and comfortable."

"I saw some really interesting animals here."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and accessible for visitors.

2

Admission prices vary, with adult fares charged for children aged 3 and up.

3

The experience includes close encounters with animals like baby kangaroos.

14
Central Park Zoo image 1

Small zoo nestled among tall city buildings offers intimate animal encounters and beautifully maintained grounds. Crowded exhibits create close views but can feel cramped for animals. Interactive areas like the rainforest walk and children's petting zoo provide engaging experiences.

Well maintained enclosures showcase a variety of animals in a compact, accessible setting. A petting zoo nearby adds an interactive element, making it suitable for families and solo visits alike.

Small but well kept, this zoo offers interesting animals like scarlet macaws and ant colonies. Educational activities keep kids engaged, making it a baby friendly and informative spot for families.

People are saying

"I found the zoo to be surprisingly small."

"The 4D movie experience here is pretty cool and fun."

"I found the zoo to be small but interesting."

Good to know

1

The sea lion feeding happens several times a day and is both entertaining and educational.

2

Make sure to attend the feeding of sea lions, which happens at 10:30am, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm.

3

The dolphin feeding time is around 2:30 PM.

15
Santa Ana Zoo image 1

Landscaped grounds with shaded rest areas and natural habitat exhibits create a pleasant, quiet atmosphere. Play areas include a working train, carousel, and Ferris wheel, offering hands-on fun for children. Layout features multiple trails that help reduce crowding and enhance the experience.

Small size suits young children well with two play areas and a working train, carousel, and Ferris wheel. Animal habitats and landscapes stay well-maintained and the zoo remains very clean and informative.

Shows with reptile animals catch attention. The zoo features a butterfly pavilion and a variety of interesting animals like camels, anteaters, and hawks.

People are saying

"It's a cute little zoo, perfect for younger kids."

"I found the admission prices to be affordable compared to other zoos."

"I found the animals and plants here really interesting."

Good to know

1

Admission is $12 for adults and $10 for children.

2

Parking is free at the zoo.

3

The zoo offers rides only on weekends.

16
The Dallas World Aquarium image 1

Multi-level space blends tropical rainforest and underwater tunnel experiences with lush greenery and exotic animals. Crowds create a cramped, busy atmosphere despite thoughtful design and flow. Families and children find engaging interactive displays and diverse wildlife throughout.

Combines a small indoor zoo with an aquarium, offering a two-in-one experience under one roof. Admission covers both the zoo and aquarium, creating a unique blend of animal exhibits.

Many unique species of birds, fish, mammals, and reptiles are active and visible from multiple angles. Exhibits highlight endangered animals and include interesting designs that engage children and adults alike.

People are saying

"This aquarium felt more like a zoo with birds and land animals."

"It felt more like a zoo than an aquarium."

"It's interesting and fun for kids."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $16.50 if you stay longer than 1.5 hours.

2

Prepaid parking is often oversold, making it hard to find a spot.

3

Expect long wait times even with pre-purchased tickets.

17
Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve image 1

Small, cramped zoo with hands-on animal interactions like feeding stingrays and otters creates an engaging experience. Family-friendly atmosphere features indoor play areas and bounce houses, making it lively and upbeat. Facility offers wheelchair accessibility and a shuttle service for convenience.

Animal interaction stands out with many chances to touch and pet creatures included in the ticket price. Tours offer a hands-on experience that goes beyond typical zoo visits.

Many different animals and interesting reptiles make this place stand out. The penguin area offers a unique chance to see and interact with penguins, and employees share interesting facts about the animals.

People are saying

"You can feed and touch so many animals; it's really hands-on fun."

"You can pet and feed the animals at this Zoo, not just look."

"It's interesting because you can feed and pet so many different animals."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, especially on weekends, so arrive early.

2

The facility is wheelchair accessible, but some areas may not be compliant.

3

The penguin interaction is scheduled from 5-6pm, but entry may be restricted.

18
The Reptile Zoo image 1

Small space with exhibits resembling cages offers a calm, cool atmosphere. Visitors can interact directly by feeding turtles and tortoises or holding snakes and lizards. Gift shop and decorative items like a dinosaur statue add to the unique setup.

The zoo features an incredible variety of reptiles including snakes, lizards, gators, and monitors. It cares for exotic reptiles and even takes in baby geckos, offering a memorable experience for families and reptile enthusiasts.

Many interesting reptiles with diverse colors, morphs, and patterns appear throughout the exhibits. A sit-and-learn session led by a long-time employee adds an engaging educational touch.

People are saying

"The staff at the Zoo were so friendly and knowledgeable."

"It's a cool place with tons of interesting reptiles."

"You can hold snakes and lizards here; it's amazing!"

Good to know

1

Admission costs $15 per adult to enter.

2

The zoo offers free parking within walking distance of places to eat and shop.

3

You can buy food at the entrance for $5, which includes lettuce and carrots.

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