The Best Zoos in the US to Visit in 2024

In this article, we’ve rounded up the best zoos in the US to visit this year. This list is a compilation of zoos worth visiting on a day trip or during a family vacation. For easier consumption, this list is divided into regions across the United States. Regardless of the weather conditions, you will undoubtedly have an awesome time.

Northeast

Bronx Zoo, New York City, NY

This historic zoo is the largest urban zoo in the US and is known for its extensive collection of animals and its commitment to conservation.

Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence, RI

This award-winning zoo features innovative habitats and a focus on education and conservation.

Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, PA

The birthplace of American zoos, Philadelphia Zoo is known for its Victorian-era architecture and its “Zoo360” concept, which allows animals to roam freely across habitats.

Stone Zoo, Stoneham, MA

This zoo focuses on regional wildlife and offers a variety of educational programs.

Beardsley Zoo, Bridgeport, CT

This mid-sized zoo offers a variety of animal exhibits, as well as a carousel and a train ride.

Southeast

Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Washington, D.C.

This free zoo is home to giant pandas, lions, and many other animals.

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, Baltimore, MD

This historic zoo features a variety of animal exhibits, as well as a carousel and a narrow-gauge railroad.

North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro, NC

This sprawling zoo is home to over 1,800 animals from around the world.

Atlanta Zoo, Atlanta, GA

This large zoo is home to a variety of animal exhibits, as well as a giant panda conservation center.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Jacksonville, FL

This zoo combines animal exhibits with beautiful gardens.

Midwest

Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha, NE

This world-renowned zoo is home to the largest indoor rainforest exhibit in the world.

Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL

This large zoo is home to a variety of animal exhibits, as well as a zoo train and a carousel.

Detroit Zoo, Royal Oak, MI

This zoo is home to a variety of animal exhibits, as well as a polar bear exhibit and a penguinarium.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, OH

This zoo is known for its interactive exhibits and its focus on education and conservation.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Columbus, OH

This large zoo is home to a variety of animal exhibits, as well as a water park and a botanical garden.

Southwest

Los Angeles Zoo, Los Angeles, CA

This large zoo is home to a variety of animal exhibits, including a gorilla enclosure and a chimpanzee habitat.

Sacramento Zoo, Sacramento, CA

This mid-sized zoo is home to a variety of animal exhibits, as well as a rainforest dome and a giraffe feeding experience.

San Francisco Zoo, San Francisco, CA

This historic zoo is located on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and offers views of the Golden Gate Bridge. The zoo is home to a variety of animal exhibits, including a lion habitat and a penguin enclosure.

San Diego Zoo, San Diego, CA

This world-famous zoo is home to a variety of animal exhibits, including giant pandas, koalas, and polar bears.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego, CA

This expansive park allows visitors to see animals roaming free in large enclosures.

Phoenix Zoo, Phoenix, AZ

This zoo is home to a variety of desert animals, as well as a variety of educational programs.

El Paso Zoo, El Paso, TX

This zoo is located on the US-Mexico border and is home to a variety of animals from the southwestern United States and Mexico.

Dallas Zoo, Dallas, TX

This large zoo is home to a variety of animal exhibits, as well as a giant panda habitat and a gorilla enclosure.

Northwest

Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA

This zoo is home to a variety of animals from the Pacific Northwest and offers various educational programs. It’s divided into bioclimatic zones featuring different natural habitats. Visitors can see animals like snow leopards, rhinos, jaguars, and penguins.

Oregon Zoo, Portland, OR

This zoo is known for its focus on conservation and education programs. Visitors can see animals like polar bears, elephants, and gorillas.

Last update on June 11, 2024.

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