10 Incredible Zoos in the U.S. You Shouldn’t Miss
It’s one thing to see a tiger on a screen, but it’s something else entirely to feel the rumble of its roar in your chest. Zoos give us the chance to step away from our phones and come face-to-face with amazing animals from all over the world.
From watching playful monkeys swing through trees to seeing penguins waddle just a few feet away, these places create real memories and a connection to wildlife you can’t get anywhere else.
But let’s be honest, some zoos are just better than others. We’re not talking about your average park with a few cages. We’ve found the 10 best zoos in the U.S. that are doing incredible things.
These places go above and beyond with huge, natural-looking homes for their animals and a serious commitment to protecting endangered species. They offer unforgettable experiences that are fun, inspiring, and totally worth the trip.
San Diego Zoo – San Diego, California
The San Diego Zoo in California is a must-see for animal lovers. Spanning 100 acres in Balboa Park, it’s home to over 12,000 animals from 650 species. What makes it stand out?
Its naturalistic habitats, like the lush Lost Forest and the Arctic-inspired Polar Bear Plunge, make you feel like you’re stepping into the animals’ real homes.
Plus, the zoo is also a botanical garden, with over 700,000 plants adding to the immersive vibe.
But it’s not just about the sights. The zoo is a leader in conservation, helping endangered species like California condors and giant pandas. Visitors can enjoy unique experiences like the Skyfari aerial tram or behind-the-scenes tours.
Whether you’re watching playful penguins or learning about wildlife conservation, the San Diego Zoo offers a mix of fun and education that’s hard to beat.
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium – Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. Spanning over 130 acres, it’s home to more than 17,000 animals and some of the most unique exhibits in the world.
The Desert Dome, the largest indoor desert, lets you explore ecosystems like the Namib and Sonoran deserts, while the Kingdoms of the Night below it showcases nocturnal creatures in their natural rhythms.
The Lied Jungle, one of the largest indoor rainforests, immerses you in lush greenery and exotic wildlife from Asia, Africa, and South America.
What sets this zoo apart is its commitment to conservation and education. From the Asian Highlands, where snow leopards and red pandas roam, to the African Grasslands with elephants and rhinos, every exhibit is designed to mimic natural habitats.
Whether you’re walking through the Simmons Aviary or marveling at the underwater world in the Scott Aquarium, this zoo offers a perfect mix of adventure and learning.
Saint Louis Zoo – St. Louis, Missouri
The Saint Louis Zoo is amazing, and one of the best parts is that it’s completely free to get in. Even without a ticket price, you get to see more than 16,000 animals. It’s famous for its work in conservation and teaching visitors about wildlife.
It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a whole day just exploring and learning new things with friends or family.
When you go, make sure you check out the penguin exhibit—it’s a fan favorite for a reason. Also, the zoo is growing with its new WildCare Park located just outside the city.
This addition shows their commitment to giving animals great care and protecting species. For a fun day out that doesn’t cost anything to enter, the Saint Louis Zoo is a top choice.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – Colorado Springs, Colorado
Get ready for a zoo experience like no other at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, located high up at over 6,700 feet above sea level. The walk might feel like a mini-hike, but the incredible views make every step worthwhile.
This zoo is famous for its hands-on activities that let you get closer to the animals in a safe and respectful way.
One of the coolest things you can do is feed the giraffes by hand from an elevated platform. Don’t miss the Sky Ride, which gives you a bird’s-eye view of the park and the surrounding mountains.
The zoo is also dedicated to protecting endangered species around the world, so your visit helps support important animal conservation work.