Top Zoos in Every State Across America

Alabama: Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, located in Gulf Shores

Visit for the shores, remain for the Gulf Coast Zoo With a spooky reptile house (where you might even get to handle some snakes!), infant kangaroos, and more than 500 distinctive displays, this place is heaven for wildlife enthusiasts. Be sure not to skip the popular sloth section, where visitors have the chance to interact with and stroke these adorable animals. If you're unable to visit the zoo yet still harbor affection for furry beings rather than humans, consider adding One of these animal-inspired presents to add to your Christmas list. .

Alaska: The Alaska Zoo located in Anchorage

There’s something beary special about the Alaska Zoo Not only does this make it the sole zoo in the north, but it also boasts a brand-new Polar Bear Transition Center. Completed by the non-profit organization running the zoo in 2016, this center exclusively focuses on saving abandoned polar bear cubs found in their natural habitat and rehabilitating them until they can return to good health (it even includes a specific area designed as a birthing den for expectant mother polar bears). When visiting, be sure to greet Cranbeary, who has recently joined the ranks of the zoo’s collection of bears.

Arizona: The Reid Park Zoo in Tucson

TripAdvisor calls this small-but-mighty zoo A "buried treasure" of the Grand Canyon State, this zoo initially opened in the 1960s and has grown and extended over time. For example, in April 2019 In 2014, Reid Park Zoo became renowned as the location where the first elephant was born in the state of Arizona. Recently, they unveiled a new exhibit designed like an ancient Mayan temple, providing a home for four spider monkeys. Discover more about this development at the zoo. 50 amazing truths about America’s 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 an ideal photo alongside a baby alligator. Should you prefer not to touch them yourself (which we totally understand), you can still have an interactive experience by feeding the alligators using sticks with meat or make your way to another location. petting zoo For all those heartwarming moments with baby goats, emus, and more.

California: San Diego Zoo

Have you ever thought about what it's like to be a zookeeper? You can find out through the "Keeper For A Day" program at the San Diego Zoo Choose between caring for koalas or giraffes, then follow a zookeeper as they feed and interact with the animals and prepare their living spaces. You'll have the opportunity to enter the animal enclosures and lend a hand—quite literally. While cargo pants and a safari hat are suggested attire, they’re not mandatory.

Colorado: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, located in Colorado Springs

While Denver boasts being the Mile High City, Colorado Springs offers an equally fascinating attraction: It houses the biggest group of giraffes in the United States! Observe these 16 towering creatures playing in their grassland environment, purchase a souvenir made by the animals—a painted hoof print—or perhaps feed them some romaine lettuce yourself. Don’t let their strikingly long, purplish-black tongues—which can extend up to 20 inches—startle you! Come see for yourself. Facts about U.S. states that frequently stump people .

Connecticut: Beardsley Zoo, Bridgeport

Great things can be found in tiny containers. As seen with Beardsley Zoo In Connecticut (the sole zoo within the state!), size isn’t everything; however, what it lacks in expanse, it makes up for with an impressive array of creatures and activities. Meander through the lush tropical rainforest exhibit as avian residents fly above, dote over Reka and Zeya—the recently arrived Amur tiger twins—or hop aboard the indoor carousel. For an extra touch, consider adopting one of the carousel beasts so your name gets inscribed upon it.

Delaware: Brandywine Zoo, Delaware

The slogan "A New Year, A New Zoo" resonates through this family-oriented destination in Wilmington, which has just introduced a fresh red panda display featuring the beloved animals Rochan and Meri. The exhibit includes a bamboo grove along with hanging structures designed for playful antics. This addition is part of their ongoing enhancements. zoo’s The $13 million master plan encompasses 17 new exhibitions, increased visitor activities, and introduces an animal hospital for rehabilitated or wounded wild creatures. It seems your next summer destination has been decided!

Florida: Zoo Miami

This is the sole subtropical zoo located in the United States, making it quite distinctive. Miami must-see Homes more than 500 animal species and around 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 a boat tour through Florida’s marshy wetlands. Here, you could catch sight of a bald eagle flying above or an alligator cruising alongside your watercraft! Consider visiting The coziest quaint town within every state .

Georgia: Zoo Atlanta

There's plenty to appreciate here. Zoo Atlanta , like the giant panda Check out the exhibit (one of just four U.S. zoos featuring these adorable critters!), or head to the Wild Encounters for a back-stage experience feeding your favorite animals such as elephants or even lions. However, one of the most recent attractions drawing visitors of every age is the Treeton Trail—a series of swaying rope bridges above the zoo culminating in an exhilarating zip line descent to ground level.

Hawaii: 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 the heart of what feels like the Amazon, you'll be encircled by massive orchids, towering bamboo forests, and around 80 distinct types of animals. 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 strikingly colored parrots.

Idaho: Yellowstone Bear World, located in Rexburg

No visit to Yellowstone is complete without stopping at this drive-through —this experience goes beyond simply ordering a Happy Meal. In this adventure, you have the opportunity to traverse the Rocky Mountains' wild landscape and observe bison, white-tailed deer, wolves, and even grizzly bears roaming freely. For those feeling adventurous after their exploration, they might also be able to touch and feed one of the young bear cubs!

Illinois: Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield

Along with These 20 indulgences are enjoyable at any age. , nobody ever outgrows the joy of visiting the zoo. For instance, take 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 acres filled with incredible attractions 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.

Indiana: Indianapolis Zoo

You may not consider Indiana a hub for interacting with dolphins, but that's precisely what you can experience there. Indianapolis Zoo , where you can interact with and stroke the marine mammals. Be sure not to miss Aurora and Pakak, the Pacific walruses; they are among just 11 such creatures in North American zoos. Interested in actually Swimming with dolphins? Find out where you can do that along with 17 additional once-in-a-lifetime experiences here. .

Iowa: Blank Park Zoo, located in Des Moines

If you're searching for the top zoo—and indeed, the sole accredited one—in Iowa, there’s no need to look any further than this place. Blank Park Zoo Just outside of Des Moines, the first item on your schedule is Hub Harbor for the sea lion show, where you'll see the young seals leap from the water and execute amazing stunts. Afterward, explore the remainder of the park, perhaps taking a turn on the vintage carousel or even opting for an exhilarating $10 camel ride instead.

Kansas: Sedgwick County Zoo, located in Wichita

Is that Dumbo? Home to the planet's largest elephant enclosure with an astounding capacity of 550,000 gallons, the Zambezi River Valley exhibit at this location features Kansas zoo Is the third-largest in the nation and houses a herd of seven large African elephants. Should you find yourself drawn to one of the adopted safari animals, you have the option to become a Zoo Pal and "adopt" an elephant to claim as yours!

Kentucky: The Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo, Located in Horse Cave

Hello there! Head down under to experience this. Australian-themed park In the heart of Kentucky, you can interact with kangaroos, hand-feed colorful rainbow lorikeets, and catch sight of an extremely rare white bison. Afterward, take a guided tour through Mammoth Onyx Cave to see the fascinating "cave cauliflower" formations and impressive stalactites. Should this experience stir your curiosity about visiting the genuine Australia, Here are the top-traveled locations within 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 in the midst of a Lowcountry swamp. Meander beneath the hanging Spanish moss where legendary albino alligators navigate the dark water close by, and critically endangered whooping cranes glide above. Before leaving, make sure to visit the Jaguar Jungle for a look at felines and flying foxes.

Maine: York’s Wild Kingdom

Discussing a one-stop shop, we can talk about the town of York’s offerings. 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 every visitor. However, should you have to pick just one must-see attraction, 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 in Baltimore

Part wildlife, part historical gem (established in 1876), the Maryland Zoo In Baltimore's Druid Hill Park lies the country's third oldest zoo. While every one of the 160 acres merits exploration, families with young children should particularly make their way to the acclaimed Children’s Zoo. This area offers a plethora of engaging activities, exciting play structures for climbing, and opportunities to interact closely with animals 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 geared towards adults (and sometimes they 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. If you're visiting with children, explore the open-flight areas like the vibrant Butterfly Hollow or the Aussie Aviary, where a bird could 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 bit of a penguin fixation, here are 13 facts you probably weren't aware of regarding the penguin species .

Minnesota: Como Park Zoo, located in Saint Paul

The Como Park Zoo That's precisely where you ought to find yourself on any 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 to have an exclusive look behind the scenes with the animals, listen to storytelling sessions, and engage in fun learning activities. As an added bonus, both the whole zoo and conservatory offer free admission, which means after your visit, you and the little ones can wander through the 25 distinct exhibitions available.

Mississippi: Hattiesburg Zoo

"I've never heard someone say 'I don't like sloths,'" which is precisely why the Sloth Experience at theصند Hattiesburg Zoo Serving as a significant attraction, who wouldn’t be eager to interact with and hug these adorable animals firsthand? Besides getting up close, participants will help prepare meals for the sloths and gain knowledge from a skilled zookeeper. For those unable to make the trip, tune into the Sloth Cam online; here you could catch sight of Maple, the young sloth born this past summer.

Missouri: St. Louis Zoo

The best zoo In Missouri, it's essentially a one-person performance—or should we say a solo act? bear Visitors come from across the state to meet 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 iconic figure at McDonnell Polar Bear Point, drawing crowds of people including families looking for unforgettable experiences like spending the night in sleeping bags under the underwater viewing area! Be sure to check this out. 50 Lesser-Known Treasures in Each State .

Montana: ZooMontana, Billings

Set against the stunning backdrop 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, all 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キャンペ Henry Doorly Zoo It stands as the world's biggest indoor desert (and it features Earth's largest geodesic dome), making it an essential addition to your Midwest must-see list. Explore various scorching, dry environments modeled after African, Asian, and Southern U.S. landscapes, home to creatures like cobras, bobcats, rattlesnakes, among others. For some relief from the heat, head beneath the desert into the Kingdoms of the Night exhibit, which offers insights into numerous night-active animals.

Nevada: Sierra Safari Zoo, located in Reno

The wildest spot in Nevada can barely rival the untamed essence of the Las Vegas Strip. Sierra Safari Zoo The Reno park showcases a variety of exotic creatures, including six distinct monkey species and eight types of wild felines. This sanctuary provides refuge for these animals without homes, be it those rescued from research facilities or zoos facing closure. 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. Squam Lakes Nature Science Center Tucked away in New Hampshire, begin your adventure by strolling along the exhibition path (expect this to take about two to three hours as you meander past various animal habitats—bring a packed lunch for sustenance!). Next, embark on a boat cruise around the adjacent lake. For those little ones still bursting with energy, direct them toward the children’s center where they can play on the large spider web structure.

Cape May County Park & Zoo is located in New Jersey.

The land area spans 200 acres. There are more than 550 animals. The cost of admission: It’s worth every penny. No experience compares to an exhilarating (and complimentary) day trip like this one. 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 exhibit, which houses vibrantly colored poison dart frogs. Come explore! 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 mingle with alpacas and llamas. Don’t miss out on visiting the Carnivores exhibit, home to 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 colorful birds flying overhead in the aviary to elusive tigers hidden among the foliage that can be spotted via the Wild Asia monorail, there's something for everyone. If reptiles intrigue you, muster up your courage and explore the World of Reptiles exhibit, where a massive anaconda awaits.

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 whole day to discover everything this park has to provide, ranging from a journey through the savannas via the Zoofari ride to meeting the recently acquired Yura, a majestic 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 because it’s capable of breeding specific rare species that others cannot, ensuring an ongoing supply of charming newborns, including a recent litter of Pallas' cats born in the spring. Below are 11 exotic creatures you might not have known were endangered .

Ohio: Cincinnati Zoo

Next time you visit Cincinnati, expect to hear plenty of mentions of Fiona—the city’s beloved female hippo weighing around 1,000 pounds. This premature baby became famous after being raised publicly and now enjoys status as both an international celebrity and social media sensation with her very own show at theincinnati 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 true star attraction—the pair of gorilla groups residing in the zoo’s Great Ape exhibit—if tropical Caribbean vibes suit you better than Asian bamboo forests, have no worries. Simply head towards the Island Life exhibit, home to pink flamingos, boa constrictors, and majestic Galapagos tortoises.

Oregon: The Oregon Zoo, located in Portland,

Portland is renowned for its eccentricity, which makes it fitting that its zoo stands out as well. Rather than featuring African elephants, the Oregon Zoo Over the past five decades, they have devoted themselves 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 Bornean Pygmy Elephant in the U.S. 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 well-loved attractions such as Big Cat Falls, where leopards, lions, and tigers roam and roar, 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 don’t involve animals at all. For instance,Carousel Village allows children to enjoy a ride on the vintage carousel, hop about in the bouncy castle, or take a leisurely horseback trek through the grounds. Similarly, the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium showcases more than a quarter-million artifacts and prehistoric remains.

South Carolina: Riverbanks Zoo, located in Columbia

Not every person from South Carolina lives on sweet tea. There are others, such as the charming marsupials at the Riverbank Zoo 'S Koala Knockout display favors eucalyptus leaves. Meanwhile, creatures such as the harbor seals at Sea Lion Landing have a preference for slippery raw fish. No matter which animals you decide to see, consider organizing your day according to the planned feeding times and interactions if you wish to engage closely with them.

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 with their attentive mother nearby.

Tennessee: Memphis Zoo

You'll have to reserve nearly five hours to journey 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 season when you're at the zoo, glide across the skating rink illuminated by one million festive lights.

Texas: San Antonio Zoo

If there’s one aspect about this situation in Texas 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, you can find an array of distinctive activities guaranteed to engage small children for extended periods. Join a bug hunt, prepare snacks for monkeys (and see the animals relish them), or scamper through subterranean passages as though you were a prairie dog.

Utah: Hogle Zoo, located in Salt Lake City

Picture yourself face-to-face with a scarce snow leopard, with a Siberian lynx close by. This is precisely what awaits you at Utah’s finest attraction. zoo , where the Asian Highlands showcase highlights some of the globe’s most breathtaking (and critically endangered) large cats. Observe them as they jump and roam around the simulated Himalayan village. Next, visit Grandma’s House to gain insights into these formidable felines from an amusing grandmother who will also regale you with one or two folktales. 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, it compensates for the absence of cute creatures with engaging and informative activities suitable for everyone. You can observe a reptile feeding session, dive into the interactive experience at the touch tidal pool, or engage in an instructive VR game where your mission is to rescue Lake Champlain.

Virginia: Metro Richmond Zoo, Mosely

Meet Kumbali and Kago, this unexpected pair who claim Metro Richmond Zoo At home (together with more than 2,000 other creatures) and who capture the affection of all who visit them. The duo stands out for several reasons: Kumbali is a baby cheetah, whereas Kago is simply a puppy. Rescued by the sanctuary in 2015, these two have remained inseparable companions ever since and visiting them at this location in Virginia is highly recommended. However, should your plans not align accordingly, Here are 50 incredibly charming puppy pictures that are nearly as endearing. .

Seattle: Woodland Park Zoo, Washington

Situated in Seattle’s Phinney Ridge district, this 92-acre area is located here. zoo is renowned for its conservation initiatives, working 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’s antics. birthday (The zoo provides each of its inhabitants, including the rhinos, with their very own special "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 adventurous and remarkable as West Virginia’s motto suggests. Operating from April through October annually, it stands out as one of the top attractions in the state. zoo is a must for anyone who wants to get up close and personal with the critters. Buy a bag of treats to feed the monkeys and giraffes (some of whom are national celebs, having starred in commercials, ads, and even movies), or get your picture taken with the lion cubs.

Madison, Wisconsin: Henry Vilas Zoo

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. Hence, regardless of whether you wish to dedicate your whole day or merely a few hours to exploring this park, visiting remains entirely without cost—a feature shared among just ten zoos offering free admission. Notably, the latest addition to the zoo—and also its biggest attraction—is called Arctic Passage, which includes underwater areas where visitors can observe polar bears, seals, and grizzly bears.

Wyoming: Kindness Ranch Animal Sanctuary, located in Hartsville

Did you know this interesting tidbit? 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 facility stands as the sole refuge in the entire nation dedicated to rehabilitating various ex-research and laboratory animals, ranging from felines to equines. It serves as their healing ground. Please remember that you must make a reservation should you wish to visit and stay overnight in one of the provided yurts. For further exploration, consider looking into the following options: weirdest creature in every state .