Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

The “best” zoo in the US is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, several zoos consistently receive high praise and recognition for their exhibits, conservation efforts, and overall visitor experience. Here’s a look at some of the top contenders:   

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium: This zoo has consistently topped lists as the “best zoo in the US.” Its unique exhibits, such as the Desert Dome and Lied Jungle, offer immersive experiences that transport visitors to different parts of the world.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

San Diego Zoo: Renowned for its expansive collection of animals and beautiful exhibits, the San Diego Zoo is a must-visit for any animal lover. Its focus on conservation and education makes it a popular choice for families.   

San Diego Zoo

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden: This zoo offers a unique blend of animal exhibits and botanical gardens. Its African savanna exhibit is particularly impressive, with its large open spaces and diverse wildlife.   

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

St. Louis Zoo: This free zoo is known for its commitment to conservation and its innovative exhibits. Its Primate Canopy Trail is a popular attraction, allowing visitors to walk through a simulated rainforest habitat.   

St. Louis Zoo

Bronx Zoo: As one of the largest urban zoos in the world, the Bronx Zoo offers a wide variety of animal exhibits, including the Congo Gorilla Forest and the Madagascar! exhibit.   

Bronx Zoo

These are just a few of the many excellent zoos in the US. Other notable mentions include:

Houston Zoo: This zoo is known for its commitment to wildlife conservation and its immersive exhibits, such as the African Forest and the Asian Forest.   

Houston Zoo

Smithsonian National Zoological Park: Located in Washington, D.C., this zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals, including giant pandas and red pandas.   

Smithsonian National Zoological Park

Denver Zoo: This zoo offers a variety of exhibits, including the Toyota Elephant Passage and the Predator Ridge.   

Denver Zoo

Brookfield Zoo: This zoo is known for its large outdoor habitats and its commitment to animal welfare.

Brookfield Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo: This free zoo is located in Chicago and offers a variety of exhibits, including the Regenstein African Center and the Kovler Lion House.   

Lincoln Park Zoo

When choosing the “best” zoo for you, consider your interests and priorities. If you’re interested in seeing a wide variety of animals, the San Diego Zoo or the Bronx Zoo might be good options. If you’re interested in immersive exhibits and conservation efforts, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium or the St. Louis Zoo might be better choices. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to do your research and choose the zoo that sounds most appealing to you.

Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a zoo:

Location: Where is the zoo located? Is it convenient for you to get to?

Size: How big is the zoo? Larger zoos typically have more animals and exhibits.

Exhibits: What types of exhibits does the zoo offer? Are there any exhibits that you’re particularly interested in?

Conservation efforts: What is the zoo’s commitment to conservation? Does it support any conservation projects?

Educational programs: Does the zoo offer any educational programs or activities for visitors?

Accessibility: Is the zoo accessible to people with disabilities?

Cost: How much does it cost to visit the zoo?

By considering these factors, you can choose the best zoo for you and your family.

FAQs

What is the best zoo in the United States?

The “best” zoo can vary based on personal preferences. However, standout zoos include the Bronx Zoo in New York (largest metropolitan zoo in the U.S.), San Diego Zoo in California (known for its innovative habitats and rare species), St. Louis Zoo in Missouri (renowned for its free admission and family-friendly design), and the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C. (home to the iconic giant pandas)​.

What are the top features of the Bronx Zoo?

The Bronx Zoo houses over 4,000 animals from 650 species, offering unique attractions like the Congo Gorilla Forest and the Wild Asia Monorail. Its emphasis on conservation and global outreach makes it a favorite among visitors​.

Why is the San Diego Zoo famous?

The San Diego Zoo is celebrated for its large variety of animals (over 12,000 individuals from 650 species) and cutting-edge habitats like the Polar Bear Plunge and African Rocks. It is also a global leader in conservation efforts​.

Are there any zoos with free admission?

Yes, the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago and the St. Louis Zoo offer free admission, making them highly accessible and popular among families​.

Which zoo is best for children?

The Houston Zoo in Texas and the St. Louis Zoo stand out for their interactive children’s exhibits, petting zoos, and educational programs​.

What is the best zoo for viewing endangered species?

The San Diego Zoo and the Smithsonian National Zoo are known for their extensive breeding programs and commitment to protecting endangered species like giant pandas, snow leopards, and red pandas​.

What zoo combines botanical displays with animal exhibits?

The Como Park Zoo & Conservatory in Minnesota uniquely blends animal exhibits with stunning botanical gardens, offering a diverse experience year-round​.

Are there zoos with unique seasonal events?

Yes, the Lincoln Park Zoo hosts events like ZooLights during the holidays, and the Brookfield Zoo in Illinois offers various seasonal activities, enhancing the visitor experience​.

How do these zoos support wildlife conservation?

Top U.S. zoos actively engage in wildlife conservation through breeding programs, habitat restoration, and global partnerships to protect endangered species​.

In summary

Choosing the best zoo in the U.S. depends on your interests, but options like the Bronx Zoo, San Diego Zoo, and Smithsonian National Zoo offer unparalleled experiences. From vast collections of exotic animals to conservation-driven missions, these zoos inspire millions annually. Free admission options like the Lincoln Park and St. Louis Zoos ensure accessibility for all, while unique features such as botanical displays at Como Park Zoo cater to diverse preferences. Each zoo not only entertains but also educates visitors on the importance of preserving wildlife and habitats, making them valuable cultural and environmental landmarks​.

To read more, click here.