Top Zoos in the U.S.

Many people are fascinated with wild animals; which makes zoos a popular place to visit. There are various zoos throughout the United States, including small game farms and large nationally known zoos.  Not all zoos are the same though.  It is important to learn the top zoos in the nation to make sure your zoo experience is enjoyable and memorable.

• The Audubon Zoo in New Orleans, Louisiana dates back to the early twentieth century.  Their most popular exhibit is the Louisiana Swamp with its white alligators.  There are also white tiger brothers, a large aquarium, insectarium and IMAX Theatre.


• The Philadelphia Zoo in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania opened in 1874 but was chartered for 1859 thus making it America’s oldest zoo.  There are more than 1,300 animals located on 42 acres.  Some of the popular exhibits include Big Cat Falls and the Rare Animal Conservation Center.


• Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Orlando, Florida opened in 1998.  Not only is this a zoo but it is also a theme park.  There are seven sections of exhibits that blend natural animal habitats with Disney attractions.  The most popular one is the Africa section that makes you feel as though you really were on safari in that country.


• The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Cincinnati, Ohio opened not long after the Philadelphia Zoo did in 1874.  They have a vast collection of endangered animals and plants, as well as successful breeding programs.


• The Houston Zoo in Houston, Texas has modern facilities, as well as some interesting ways in which you can see the park.  While you can go off on your own, you can also have a private tour that goes behind the normal visitation parameters allowing you to see special places and feedings.  This will cost a little more but is well worth it.


• The Fort Worth Zoo in Fort Worth, Texas opened in 1909 and both USA Today and the Los Angeles Times consider it to be the nation’s top zoo.  They have more than 350 different species from around the world with special attention being paid to Texas’ native flora and fauna.


• The Phoenix Zoo in Phoenix, Arizona is located on 125 acres and has over 1,000 animals.  One of the things you will definitely want to see is Stingray Bay where you can actually touch the stingrays.  You can also roller blade or bike through this zoo.


• The San Diego Zoo in San Diego, California uses many cageless, open-air exhibits.  They have more than 4,000 animals.  One thing you will definitely want to check out though is the Giant Panda exhibit as it is one of the only four in the world.


• The Columbus Zoo in Columbus, Ohio opened in 1927 and today it is known throughout the world thanks to Jack Hanna.  There are more than 7,000 animals and there is also a water park, amusement park and golfing.