Best Zoos in the US 2023 - Ranked Top 10 Best
by Krishika M
Updated Mar 22, 2023
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Best Zoos in the US 2023
If you're searching for a family-friendly activity that is both enjoyable and educational, a trip to a nearby zoo is an excellent choice. To assist us in identifying the best zoos in the country, we enlisted the help of a group of travel experts and industry specialists. They recommended facilities that stand out in terms of animal welfare, as well as encouraging positive interactions between the animals and visitors. We have compiled a list of the top 10 zoos in the United States for 2023. These 10 zoos are not only home to a diverse range of animal species but are also committed to providing the highest level of care and enrichment for their animals. Additionally, they offer visitors an opportunity to learn more about these animals, their habitats, and the importance of conservation efforts. From educational exhibits to interactive experiences, these zoos go above and beyond to create meaningful connections between animals and visitors.
Top 10 Zoos in the US
Here is the list of the top 10 zoos in the US:
1
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Omaha, Nebraska
2
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Cincinnati, Ohio
3
Brevard Zoo
Melbourne, Florida
4
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Colorado Springs, Colorado
5
Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield, Illinois
6
ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Tampa, Florida
7
Audubon Zoo
New Orleans, Louisiana
8
Saint Louis Zoo
St. Louis, Missouri
9
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Powell, Ohio
10
Indianapolis Zoo
Indianapolis, Indiana
S.No.
Zoo
Location
1. Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a popular zoo and aquarium located in Omaha, Nebraska, USA. It is widely regarded as one of the best zoos in the world, and is home to more than 17,000 animals of 962 different species.
The zoo was founded in 1894 as Riverview Park Zoo, and over the years it has grown and expanded to become one of the premier zoos in the United States. In 1963, it was renamed in honor of local philanthropist Henry Doorly, whose foundation provided significant funding for the zoo's expansion. Some of the most popular exhibits at the zoo include the Desert Dome, the world's largest indoor desert, the Lied Jungle, a massive indoor rainforest, the Kingdoms of the Night, a bat and nocturnal animal exhibit, and the Scott Aquarium, which features a wide variety of marine life.
The zoo is also home to many other exhibits and attractions, including a butterfly and insect pavilion, a gorilla valley, a sea lion exhibit, and a penguin exhibit. There are also several interactive exhibits and experiences for visitors, including a petting zoo and a tram tour. Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is known for its commitment to animal conservation and education, and it is involved in numerous conservation programs both locally and around the world.
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2. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is a zoo and botanical garden located in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. It is one of the oldest zoos in the country, having been founded in 1875, and is known for its extensive collection of animals and plants.
The zoo is home to over 500 animal species, including several endangered and rare species. Some of the most popular exhibits include the African savanna, the Cat Canyon, the World of Insects, and the Reptile House. The zoo is also famous for its collection of big cats, including lions, tigers, and cheetahs. In addition to its animal collection, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is also home to a large botanical garden. The garden features over 3,000 plant species from around the world, including many rare and exotic plants. Visitors can enjoy a variety of themed gardens, including a butterfly garden, a rose garden, and a fragrance garden.
The zoo is also known for its conservation efforts, and is involved in numerous programs to protect endangered species and their habitats. It is a founding member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan, which coordinates breeding programs for endangered species in zoos across the country. The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is a popular destination for visitors of all ages, and offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. These include animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and summer camps for children.
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3. Brevard Zoo
Brevard Zoo is a 75-acre zoo located in Melbourne, Florida, USA. It is home to over 900 animals of more than 195 species, many of which are native to Florida and other parts of the world.
One of the most popular attractions at Brevard Zoo is the TreeTop Trek, a zipline and aerial obstacle course that takes visitors high above the zoo and provides a unique perspective on the animals and exhibits below. The zoo also features a kayak tour that allows visitors to paddle through the animal exhibits, including a giraffe feeding experience. Other popular exhibits at Brevard Zoo include the Expedition Africa exhibit, which features lions, rhinoceros, and other African wildlife, as well as the Paws On play area, which is designed for children and includes a petting zoo, splash pad, and other interactive activities.
The zoo is also committed to conservation and education, and is involved in numerous local and international conservation programs. It operates a sea turtle conservation program, which rescues and rehabilitates injured sea turtles and releases them back into the wild. Brevard Zoo is also a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and participates in a number of species survival programs to help preserve endangered species. In addition to its animal exhibits and conservation efforts, Brevard Zoo hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, concerts, and fundraising events. The zoo is open daily and welcomes visitors of all ages.
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4. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a zoo located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. It was founded in 1926 and is situated on a mountainside, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. The zoo is home to over 800 animals of 200 different species, including several endangered species. One of the most popular exhibits is the Rocky Mountain Wild exhibit, which features animals that are native to the Rocky Mountains, such as grizzly bears, mountain lions, and river otters.
Another popular exhibit is the African Rift Valley exhibit, which features animals from Africa, such as giraffes, zebras, and African elephants. Visitors can also see animals from South America, Asia, and Australia at the zoo. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is known for its conservation efforts and is involved in numerous programs to protect endangered species and their habitats. It operates a giraffe breeding program, which has successfully bred several endangered giraffes in captivity. The zoo also participates in a number of species survival plans, which coordinate breeding programs for endangered species in zoos across the country.
In addition to its animal exhibits, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and educational programs for children and adults. The zoo also has several dining options, including a restaurant that overlooks the giraffe exhibit. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is open year-round and is a popular destination for visitors of all ages. It has received numerous awards and recognitions, including being named one of the top zoos in the country by TripAdvisor.
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5. Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo is a 216-acre zoo located in Brookfield, Illinois, USA. It is one of the largest and most popular zoos in the country, attracting over 2 million visitors annually. The zoo is home to over 2,000 animals representing over 400 species, including several endangered and rare species. Some of the most popular exhibits at Brookfield Zoo include the Tropic World exhibit, which features primates, birds, and other animals from rainforests around the world, and the Great Bear Wilderness exhibit, which features grizzly bears, polar bears, and other animals from the Arctic.
Other popular exhibits include the African Safari exhibit, which features African lions, zebras, and other animals, and the Hamill Family Wild Encounters exhibit, which allows visitors to get up close and personal with animals such as kangaroos, red pandas, and sloths. Brookfield Zoo is committed to conservation and education and is involved in numerous programs to protect endangered species and their habitats. It is a founding member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan, which coordinates breeding programs for endangered species in zoos across the country.
In addition to its animal exhibits, Brookfield Zoo offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and educational programs for children and adults. The zoo also has several dining options, including a restaurant that overlooks the giraffe exhibit. Brookfield Zoo is open year-round and hosts a variety of special events and activities throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, concerts, and fundraising events.
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6. ZooTampa at Lowry Park
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a zoo located in Tampa, Florida, USA. It is situated on 63 acres and is home to over 1,100 animals from 200 different species, including several endangered species.
One of the most popular exhibits at ZooTampa is the Florida Wildlife Center, which features animals native to Florida, such as alligators, panthers, and manatees. Another popular exhibit is the Primate World exhibit, which features a variety of primates, including chimpanzees, orangutans, and lemurs. ZooTampa is committed to conservation and is involved in numerous programs to protect endangered species and their habitats. It operates a manatee rehabilitation center, which rescues and rehabilitates injured or orphaned manatees before releasing them back into the wild. The zoo also participates in a number of species survival plans, which coordinate breeding programs for endangered species in zoos across the country.
In addition to its animal exhibits, ZooTampa offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and educational programs for children and adults. The zoo also has several dining options, including a restaurant that overlooks the African savanna exhibit. ZooTampa is open year-round and hosts a variety of special events and activities throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, concerts, and fundraising events. The zoo is a popular destination for visitors of all ages and has received numerous awards and recognitions for its conservation efforts and animal care.
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7. Audubon Zoo
Audubon Zoo is a zoo located in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA. It is situated on 58 acres and is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world.
One of the most popular exhibits at Audubon Zoo is the Louisiana Swamp exhibit, which features animals native to the state, such as alligators, otters, and black bears. Another popular exhibit is the African Savanna exhibit, which features animals such as giraffes, zebras, and African lions. Audubon Zoo is committed to conservation and is involved in numerous programs to protect endangered species and their habitats. It is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan, which coordinates breeding programs for endangered species in zoos across the country.
In addition to its animal exhibits, Audubon Zoo offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and educational programs for children and adults. The zoo also has several dining options, including a restaurant that overlooks the flamingo exhibit. Audubon Zoo is open year-round and hosts a variety of special events and activities throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, concerts, and fundraising events. The zoo is a popular destination for visitors of all ages and has received numerous awards and recognitions for its conservation efforts and animal care.
![Best Zoos in the US 2023 - Ranked Top 10 Best Best Zoos in the US 2023 - Ranked Top 10 Best](https://img20.fresherslive.com/latestnews/2023/03/BZ7-641ad4c1097f446896629-900.webp)
8. Saint Louis Zoo
The Saint Louis Zoo is a zoo located in Forest Park in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. It is widely recognized as one of the best zoos in the country and has been named the best free attraction in America by USA Today. The zoo is home to over 18,000 animals from 600 different species, including several endangered species. Some of the most popular exhibits at the Saint Louis Zoo include the River's Edge exhibit, which features animals from different continents, including elephants, hippos, and cheetahs, and the Primate House, which features a variety of primates, including orangutans, gorillas, and lemurs.
Other popular exhibits include the Penguin & Puffin Coast exhibit, which features a variety of penguins, and the Sea Lion Sound exhibit, which features California sea lions. The Saint Louis Zoo is committed to conservation and is involved in numerous programs to protect endangered species and their habitats. It is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan, which coordinates breeding programs for endangered species in zoos across the country.
In addition to its animal exhibits, the Saint Louis Zoo offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and educational programs for children and adults. The zoo also has several dining options, including a restaurant that overlooks the sea lion exhibit. The Saint Louis Zoo is open year-round and hosts a variety of special events and activities throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, concerts, and fundraising events. The zoo is free to the public, although there may be a charge for some of the special activities and experiences.
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9. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a zoo located in Powell, Ohio, USA, just north of Columbus. It is home to over 10,000 animals from over 600 different species, including several endangered species.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Columbus Zoo is the Heart of Africa exhibit, which features a variety of African animals, such as lions, cheetahs, and zebras. Another popular exhibit is the Polar Frontier, which features polar bears, Arctic foxes, and other animals from the Arctic region. The Columbus Zoo is committed to conservation and is involved in numerous programs to protect endangered species and their habitats. It is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan, which coordinates breeding programs for endangered species in zoos across the country.
In addition to its animal exhibits, the Columbus Zoo offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and educational programs for children and adults. The zoo also has several dining options, including a restaurant that overlooks the Heart of Africa exhibit. The Columbus Zoo is open year-round and hosts a variety of special events and activities throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, concerts, and fundraising events. The zoo also operates a water park adjacent to the zoo, called Zoombezi Bay, which is open during the summer months. The Columbus Zoo is a popular destination for visitors of all ages and has received numerous awards and recognitions for its conservation efforts and animal care.
![Best Zoos in the US 2023 - Ranked Top 10 Best Best Zoos in the US 2023 - Ranked Top 10 Best](https://img20.fresherslive.com/latestnews/2023/03/BZ9-641ad4c1097f437946959-900.webp)
10. Indianapolis Zoo
The Indianapolis Zoo is a zoo located in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. It is home to over 1,200 animals from over 200 different species, including several endangered species.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Indianapolis Zoo is the Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center, which features a large indoor and outdoor exhibit for orangutans, as well as several other species of primates. Another popular exhibit is the Oceans exhibit, which features a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. The Indianapolis Zoo is committed to conservation and is involved in numerous programs to protect endangered species and their habitats. It is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan, which coordinates breeding programs for endangered species in zoos across the country.
In addition to its animal exhibits, the Indianapolis Zoo offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and educational programs for children and adults. The zoo also has several dining options, including a restaurant that overlooks the savannah exhibit. The Indianapolis Zoo is open year-round and hosts a variety of special events and activities throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, concerts, and fundraising events. The zoo is a popular destination for visitors of all ages and has received numerous awards and recognitions for its conservation efforts and animal care.
![Best Zoos in the US 2023 - Ranked Top 10 Best Best Zoos in the US 2023 - Ranked Top 10 Best](https://img20.fresherslive.com/latestnews/2023/03/BZ10-641ad4c1097f430102489-900.webp)
Best Zoos in the US
The best zoos in the US are some of the most popular and well-respected zoological parks in the world. They typically feature a wide variety of animal exhibits, ranging from large mammals such as elephants and lions, to smaller creatures such as birds, reptiles, and insects. Many of these zoos also have aquariums and marine exhibits, as well as botanical gardens, interactive exhibits, and other attractions.
The best zoos in the US are committed to animal conservation and education, with many of them participating in breeding programs and research efforts to protect endangered species and their habitats. They also offer a variety of educational programs and opportunities for visitors to learn about animals and conservation, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and interactive exhibits.
Some of the most popular zoos in the US include the San Diego Zoo, the Bronx Zoo, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and the Saint Louis Zoo, among others. These zoos are known for their high standards of animal care and their commitment to conservation, as well as their engaging and informative exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages.
Best Zoos in America
There are many excellent zoos in America, each with its unique collection of animals, exhibits, and attractions. Here are some of the best zoos in America:
These are just some of the best zoos in America, and there are many other great zoos worth visiting, each with its unique features and attractions.
Biggest Zoo in the US
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, located in Ohio, is the biggest zoo in the United States, covering a vast area of 580 acres, out of which 406.30 acres are dedicated solely to the zoo. It is home to a remarkable variety of wildlife, with over 800 different species and more than 7,000 animals residing within its boundaries.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers a diverse collection of animals, ranging from rare and endangered species to common animals. Visitors can encounter animals from all corners of the globe, including lions, tigers, bears, giraffes, elephants, and many more. Additionally, the zoo boasts an extensive aquarium, featuring aquatic life from around the world, including sharks, stingrays, and exotic fish.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is committed to conservation and education, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about animal behavior, habitats, and the importance of conservation efforts. The zoo is dedicated to providing its animals with the best possible care, and their habitats are designed to mimic their natural environments as closely as possible.
Best Zoos in the US 2023 - FAQs
Zoos play a crucial role in conservation efforts by protecting endangered species, conducting research, and promoting public awareness and education about wildlife and environmental issues. Many zoos also work with conservation organizations to fund projects that help protect animal habitats in the wild.
A great zoo should provide a high-quality visitor experience while prioritizing the welfare and conservation of its animals. Some factors that can make a zoo one of the best include well-designed animal habitats, engaging educational exhibits and programs, and partnerships with conservation organizations.
Zoos offer a variety of educational opportunities, including exhibits, guided tours, and interactive programs, that allow visitors to learn about different animal species and their habitats, as well as the challenges they face in the wild. Many zoos also offer conservation-focused events and workshops that encourage visitors to get involved in conservation efforts.
Zoos are subject to strict regulations and standards for animal care and welfare, and employ trained professionals such as veterinarians and animal behaviorists to ensure that their animals are healthy and happy. Many zoos also participate in conservation breeding programs that help maintain healthy populations of endangered species.
Visitors can support conservation efforts by choosing to visit accredited zoos that prioritize animal welfare and conservation. Many zoos also offer opportunities to donate or volunteer for conservation programs or organizations, or participate in eco-friendly practices such as recycling and reducing waste during their visit.