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The 26 best zoos in the u.s..

Discover the top animal parks for education, conservation and global outreach.

(Courtesy of Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden) |

These zoos provide excellent opportunities to see and learn more about all kinds of animals.

(Courtesy of Minnesota Zoo) |

What to know before you go

(Courtesy of Oakland Zoo) |

Oakland Zoo: Oakland, California

(Getty Images) |

Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute: Washington, D.C.

(Kaiti Grant | Courtesy of Alaska SeaLife Center)

Alaska SeaLife Center: Seward, Alaska

(Ray Meibaum | Courtesy of Saint Louis Zoo)

Saint Louis Zoo: St. Louis

(Courtesy of Fort Worth Zoo) |

Fort Worth Zoo: Fort Worth, Texas

(Courtesy of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance) |

San Diego Zoo and Safari Park: San Diego

(Julie Larsen Maher | Courtesy of Wildlife Conservation Society)

Bronx Zoo: New York City

(Courtesy of Brevard Zoo) |

Brevard Zoo: Melbourne, Florida

Minnesota Zoo: Apple Valley, Minnesota

(Courtesy of Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium) |

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium: Omaha, Nebraska

(Courtesy of Audubon Nature Institute) |

Audubon Zoo: New Orleans

(Courtesy of Denver Zoo) |

Denver Zoo: Denver, Colorado

(Courtesy of The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens) |

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens: Palm Desert, California

(Courtesy of Philadelphia Zoo) |

Philadelphia Zoo: Philadelphia

(Courtesy of Zoo Atlanta) |

Zoo Atlanta: Atlanta

(Courtesy of Woodland Park Zoo) |

Woodland Park Zoo: Seattle

(Courtesy of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo) |

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Colorado Springs, Colorado

(Courtesy of Roger Williams Park Zoo) |

Roger Williams Park Zoo: Providence, Rhode Island

(Courtesy of Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum) |

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum: Tucson, Arizona

(Jordan Whitt | Courtesy of Indianapolis Zoo)

Indianapolis Zoo: Indianapolis

(Jim Schulz | Courtesy of Brookfield Zoo)

Brookfield Zoo: Brookfield, Illinois

(Courtesy of Memphis Zoo) |

Memphis Zoo: Memphis, Tennessee

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden: Cincinnati

(Courtesy of Virginia Zoo) |

Virginia Zoo: Norfolk, Virginia

Houston Zoo: Houston, Texas

(Courtesy of Lion Country Safari) |

Lion Country Safari: Loxahatchee, Florida

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14 of the Best Zoos in the U.S.

These popular U.S. zoos are about more than just animals — they’re doing their part to fund and initiate animal conservation efforts.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

There's something extraordinarily special about seeing some of the world's most incredible animals in one, easily accessible place. Thanks to zoos, we can watch a family of orangutans swing from branch to branch and a lion cub snuggle into its mother in a single afternoon. But as amazing as it can be to witness these wild animals up close, many activists view zoos as prisons. That's why it's important to do your research and carefully choose the ones you support. Many go above and beyond to ensure animal welfare, protect endangered species, revive dwindling populations through captive breeding programs, and educate people on the plight of some of the world's rarest creatures.

To help you determine the best and most ethical zoos in the U.S., the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) came up with a list of AZA-accredited locations that provide excellent care for animals and a better future for all living things. From this list, we selected 14 of the most popular zoos in the U.S., according to the AZA, to make your next visit a little easier to plan.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park — Bay Lake, Florida

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

As you'd expect from the largest theme park in the world, Disney's Animal Kingdom has plenty of animals living on its 580 acres. But in addition to offering glimpses of tigers, lions, and gorillas, the zoological theme park has done wonders on growing its elephant and giraffe herds. It has even transferred a white rhinoceros born at the park to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary , helping to reintroduce the animal to Uganda.

San Diego Zoo — San Diego, California

In addition to being accredited by the AZA, the San Diego Zoo is recognized by the American Alliance of Museums for its work. The zoo is home to more than 12,000 animals and more than 650 species and subspecies. Plus, its wildlife alliance arm has made great strides in areas like genetic diversity, reproductive sciences, disease, and population sustainability in an effort to help save plants and wildlife worldwide.

Lincoln Park Zoo — Chicago, Illinois

Not only is the Lincoln Park Zoo one of the oldest in North America, but it also has one of the largest zoo-based conservation and science programs in the country. The zoo's scientists constantly monitor animal behavior to improve their welfare, and have conservation initiatives set up all over the world. Overall, you'll feel good about your choice to visit this zoo, plus admission is free. A total win-win.

Saint Louis Zoo — St. Louis, Missouri

In addition to housing nearly 500 animal species, the Saint Louis Zoo is recognized worldwide for its innovative approach to animal care and wildlife conservation. On the conservation side of things, the zoo established two institutes to further its work: the WildCare Institute , which aids initiatives that protect animals from disease, poaching, and shrinking habitats, and the Institute for Conservation Medicine , which researches the impact infectious diseases have on the long-term survival of species and the health of animals, humans, and ecosystems. Bonus: Admission to the zoo is free.

Houston Zoo — Houston, Texas

The Houston Zoo sees a whopping two million annual visitors, and there's a good reason for that. The 55-acre park is home to more than 6,000 animals, and with every ticket sold, visitors are able to help support almost 50 wildlife conservation projects around the world. On top of its global work, the Houston Zoo spearheads local projects to save native Texas species from extinction, including the Houston toad and the Attwater's prairie chicken.

Brookfield Zoo — Brookfield, Illinois

Animals from all over the world — including wallabies, lions, and dolphins — make their home just west of Chicago at the Brookfield Zoo . In addition to Australia House (emus, wombats, and kangaroos) and Habitat Africa (giraffes, antelope, and crocodiles), there's an ambassador program where guests can attend zoo chats and demonstrations led by animal care specialists. The idea behind the zoo's interactive programming? "Bringing people closer to animals is just one way we can help others gain an appreciation for all citizens of the natural world."

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium — Omaha, Nebraska

You might not expect to find red pandas, Indian rhinos, snow leopards, and Amur tigers in Omaha, but all it takes is a visit to the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquariu m to see these amazing creatures up close. In addition to providing a place where people can see and learn about animals from all over the world, the zoo delves deep into the fields of molecular genetics, reproductive physiology, and conservation medicine.

Smithsonian's National Zoo — Washington, D.C.

This zoo 's biggest draw may be its family of giant pandas — Tian Tian, Mei Xiang, and their cub, Xiao Qi Ji — but behind the scenes, there's a lot of conservation work going on. The zoo's Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute plays a huge role in the Smithsonian's efforts to inspire and train future conservationists as well as save wildlife species from extinction. These initiatives include breeding species that were once extinct in the wild — like the black-footed ferret and scimitar-horned oryx — and work focused on global tiger populations and regional landscape preservation.

Denver Zoo — Denver, Colorado

The centrally located 84-acre Denver Zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals, which it sees as "ambassadors for their wild counterparts all over the world." But the zoo is about more than just encounters with giraffes and zebras — its Field Conservation and Emergency Wildlife Response teams work to protect species threatened by human encroachment, habitat loss, and catastrophic events in places like Peru, Mongolia, and Vietnam.

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory — Saint Paul, Minnesota

Admission to the year-round Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is completely free — they just ask that you make a reservation in advance. And with more than two million annual visitors, the park has plenty of programming, from virtual classes kids can watch at home to evening strolls for seniors. Their mission is "to inspire our public to value the presence of living things in our lives," and they do that by introducing people to animals from across the globe and promoting conservation.

Bronx Zoo — Bronx, New York

The Bronx Zoo tagline says it all: Saving wildlife and wild places. The flagship zoo ​​for the renowned Wildlife Conservation Society is home to more than 10,000 animals and even operates its own zoo hospital. At the park, which is set in the heart of the Bronx, visitors are transported to landscapes like Tanzania and Australia as they journey through 260 acres of hardwood forest.

Los Angeles Zoo — Los Angeles, California

You'll need to make a reservation to visit the Los Angeles Zoo , but a little planning is well worth it. The zoo is home to more than 2,200 animals and more than 60 endangered species. Highlights include a visit to the Rainforest of the Americas and the Elephants of Asia, which is the largest habitat in the zoo. The zoo's overarching goal is "to help create a better future for wildlife," a mission they fulfill by supporting field work, gathering data and insights, offering innovative animal care, and hosting speaker series and educational events.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden — Cincinnati, Ohio

Ever heard of Fiona, the world-famous hippo ? The Cincinnati hippo pup was born six weeks early and was too small to nurse from her mother, putting the team at the Cincinnati Zoo in the hot seat. They figured out how and what to feed her, taking over her care 24/7. The result is a healthy, happy hippo whose journey is followed by millions. In addition to their hippo success story, the zoo is involved in educating people on sustainable palm oil, pollinator conservation, and cell-phone recycling — all of which directly impact animals around the globe. In addition to housing animals since 1875 (it's the second-oldest zoo in the nation), the Cincinnati Zoo has a lovely botanical garden.

Oregon Zoo — Portland, Oregon

Just three miles west of downtown Portland, you'll find animals walking through reproductions of the African savanna and Arctic tundra. Residents include the Amur tiger, Asian elephant, and black rhinoceros. To secure a better future for these animals and all wildlife, the Oregon Zoo undertakes long- and short-term research projects and works to recover native species on the brink of extinction. They also spearhead educational efforts on the dangers of lead ammunition , which is hazardous to both humans and wildlife.

Learn all about animals at the 10 best zoos in the U.S.

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The 10 Best Zoos in the U.S.

By Matt Meltzer

San Diego Zoo, San Diego, California

This Southern California landmark is home to more than 3,700 animals and 650 species. The best view of them all is aboard the Skyfari Aerial Tram, but if you’d rather walk, be sure to catch the giant pandas, the polar bears, and the elephant odyssey. If you go during summer, try visiting at night when live performers jam the streets, and you can watch the animals’ nocturnal behavior.

Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis, Indiana

Looking for a live dolphin encounter, but can’t get out of the Midwest ? Head to the Indianapolis Zoo, the only place in the region where you can swim with dolphins. It’s also the only park in America certified as a zoo, aquarium, and zoological garden. All of this is best seen on a gondola ride, affording perfect photo ops for both the animal exhibits and the city skyline.

Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, Washington

Some might be surprised to learn this zoo has won the most awards of any in North America after the Bronx Zoo. Much of that is because exhibits here focus on recreating animals’ natural habitats, and seeing the grizzly bears, jaguars, and lions here is as close to spotting them in the wild as you'll get.

St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis, Missouri

After the Gateway Arch, St. Louis’ most famous attraction is its zoo, situated in lush Forest Park and home to 600 species. The biggest draw here is Kali the polar bear, but it’s also home to an extremely rare red panda, sea lion shows, and an impressive recreation of the African savanna. And the best part about the St. Louis Zoo: It’s free.

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Bronx Zoo, New York, New York

Though the name is often used to refer to the Yankee Stadium bleachers, their namesake is this massive, 265-acre zoo with 6,000 animals from more than 650 species. It’s America’s most historic zoo, dating back to 1899. In addition to the animals, the zoo recently opened a 4D theater where viewers are hit with snowflakes and mist, and the Treetop Adventure, a sort of ropes course that takes you atop the park.

Living Desert Zoo, Palm Desert, California

Because land is fairly plentiful in the middle of the California desert, seeing the animals here feels a little like stepping onto the set of The Lion King. The desert animals roam free with little inhibition, while visitors can roam the 50 gardens of 1,400 different plant and animals species in what’s undoubtedly the best desert-themed zoo in America.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Columbus, Ohio

Thank mostly to Jack Hanna and his endless late-night TV appearances, Columbus’ zoo has a place firmly in the top tier of U.S. zoos. It’s done its best to try and recreate Florida in Ohio, with the largest exhibit of Manatees outside Florida, as well as a 100,000-gallon coral reef tank. It’s also home to one of the country’s best primate exhibits, which included Colo, the first and oldest gorilla born in captivity, until she passed away at age 60 in January 2017.

Alaska Zoo, Anchorage, Alaska

It reasons that the best place in America to see arctic wildlife would also be in our closest city to the arctic. And while this zoo might not be as big as others, it is home to the only rescue facility in North America for polar bears. It’s also a great place to see wildlife usually only viewed from a cruise ship, like Canadian Lynx, moose, yaks, and snow leopards.

Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha, Nebraska

Nebraska may not have the most diverse climate or topography, but this zoo’s recreated it better than anyone. The zoo’s most notable feature is its glazed geodesic dome, the largest in the world, and home to stunning recreations of the Sonoran, Namib and Red Center Deserts. Its downstairs also houses the largest collection of nocturnal animals in the world in Kingdoms of the Night. And further into the zoo you’ll find the largest indoor rain forest at the Lied Jungle.

Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, Illinois

For a peek at tropical wildlife, the best zoo in America is in… Chicago ? Even in cold winter months, the Tropical World exhibit here is the most extensive showcase of birds, plants, and primates from South America and Asia you’ll find in a U.S. zoo. Trek over suspension bridges with panoramic views of canyons, and try to spot rare western lowland gorillas as they pop out from hiding on rare occasions.

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13 Top Picks for the Best Zoo in the US | The Highest Standards of Visitor Experiences, Animal Care, and Conservation Efforts

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Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

When it comes to encountering exotic wildlife and exploring diverse ecosystems, there’s no better place than the best zoo in the US. Every year, TravelAwaits asks its readers to vote for the best zoos in the country as part of our annual Best Of Travel Awards and we’re thrilled to present the 2023 results! Spread across the U.S., these remarkable zoos exemplify the highest standards of visitor experiences, animal care, and conservation efforts.

Below you can find a quick summary of our top 13 zoos, or you can continue reading to learn about each in more detail:

13 Top Picks for the Best Zoo in the US

1. san diego zoo (winner), san diego, california.

Our 2023 Best Of Travel Award winner for Best Zoo in the U.S. is the San Diego Zoo ! Situated in sunny San Diego’s beautiful Balboa Park, this southern California zoo is renowned for its diverse collection of animals and dedication to conservation. With more than 14,000 rare and endangered animals from more than 700 species and subspecies, the zoo provides visitors with an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Open-air, cageless exhibits recreate the animal’s natural habitats. In addition to clouded leopards, bonobos, red pandas, and California condors, this zoo is also home to botanical gardens. Take a ride on the  Skyfari Aerial Tram for a bird’s eye view of the whole place!

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2. Smithsonian National Zoological Park

Washington, d.c..

Attracting nearly 2 million visitors a year , Smithsonian National Zoological Park is in the heart of our nation’s capital. Established in the late 1800s in an attempt to save several native North American species such as deer, foxes, beavers, and bison from extinction, the national zoo is one of the oldest in the country.

Almost 250 animals representing 20 species reside on the Smithsonian National Zoological Park’s 163 acres. It is one of few zoos in the country that has giant pandas, which is one of its biggest draws. Observe and learn about more familiar members of the animal kingdom, such as the bald eagle, California sea lion, and beaver on the American Trail.

Pro Tip: There are free admission zoos in the US , like the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, but parking is limited and pricey. TravelAwaits contributor Sage Scott recommends taking the Metrorail to Cleveland Park and then leaving from Woodley Park, which makes the walk to and from the zoo entirely downhill.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Washington, D.C.

3. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo And Aquarium

Omaha, nebraska.

Nationally recognized for its animal care, exhibit design, and conservation, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is regarded as one of the best zoos in the world. Sprawling over 160 acres, it boasts the largest indoor rainforest in the country.

Henry Doorly Zoo is also the largest nocturnal exhibit and indoor desert in the world. In the Lied Jungle rainforest exhibit, visitors can look out from behind a 50-foot-high waterfall.

Other popular attractions of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo include the 70-foot shark tunnel, Skyfari (the open-air chairlift), and the African Grasslands exhibit where guests can feed a giraffe. Unique species include David’s deer, bongos, Amur tigers, and bush babies. If you are interested in aquariums, US has some of the best aquariums in the world.

Pro Tip: Golf cart tours are available for those who don’t want to walk around the large and hilly Henry Doorly Zoo.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Omaha, Nebraska

4. Bronx Zoo

New york city, new york.

As the largest metropolitan zoo in the U.S., the Bronx Zoo is a remarkable urban oasis teeming with wildlife. Situated on 265 acres of parkland, the zoo houses over 10,000 animals of more than 700 species. Its incredible variety of exhibits, including Tiger Mountain, Jungleworld, and the Children’s Zoo, allow visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of the animal kingdom. Treetop Adventures invites visitors to don a harness and tackle the ropes course high in the trees and ride the zipline over the Bronx River.

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5. Saint Louis Zoo

St. louis, missouri.

Nestled in Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo is renowned for its commitment to conservation and exceptional animal care. Several structures built for the 1904 World’s Fair have been repurposed to showcase over 16,000 animals across the zoo’s 90 acres.

With over 600 species, Saint Louis Zoo offers a captivating experience for visitors, featuring exhibits like River’s Edge where visitors can observe hippos, elephants, and gorillas in their natural habitats.

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6. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Cincinnati, ohio.

Combining a stunning botanical garden with a top-notch zoo, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is a delightful attraction for nature lovers. Home to adorable hippo siblings, Fiona and Fritz, this zoo showcases a vast collection of animals — over 500 animal and 3,000 plant species — while providing educational programs and conservation initiatives. Check out the University of Cincinnati mascot, the bearcat, in the Night Hunters habitat of the Cincinnati Zoo.

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7. ZooTampa At Lowry Park

Tampa, florida.

Situated along the scenic Hillsborough River, ZooTampa at Lowry Park offers a fantastic blend of entertainment and education. Known for its immersive exhibits and interactive experiences, this zoo provides visitors with an opportunity to get up close with animals like manatees, giraffes, and orangutans.

Although it only takes up 24 acres, its habitats are home to 1,100 Asian, African, and Australian animals, plus native Florida wildlife. ZooTampa is also noted for its animal veterinary care and rehabilitation of endangered species.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Tampa, Florida

8. Fort Worth Zoo

Fort worth, texas.

With its commitment to animal conservation and an extensive collection of species, the Fort Worth Zoo stands as a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Spanning 64 acres, the zoo features exhibits like Texas Wild! and African Savanna, providing visitors with a chance to witness the incredible diversity of animal life.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Fort Worth, Texas

9. Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield, illinois.

Situated in a suburb of Chicago, the Brookfield Zoo is a beloved attraction that combines education, conservation, and family fun. Home to a wide range of wild animals — including lions, gorillas, and dolphins — Brookfield Zoo offers engaging exhibits and interactive experiences that captivate visitors of all ages.

Over 200 acres feature large exhibits in a wooded setting because it is also an arboretum. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you walk around the flat, midwestern forest. Lying at the center of grassy lanes, the Roosevelt Fountain makes for a great spot to meet up while in the Brookfield Zoo.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Brookfield, Illinois

10. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Tucson, arizona.

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum offers a unique and immersive experience that showcases the beauty and diversity of the desert ecosystem. Combining a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum, this remarkable institution allows visitors to explore the desert landscapes while encountering animals like javelinas, desert tortoises, and Mexican wolves.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Tucson, Arizona

11. Lincoln Park Zoo

Chicago, illinois.

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., offering a delightful escape within the bustling city of Chicago. With its free admission policy, the zoo provides access to a diverse range of animals, from playful primates to majestic big cats, while fostering a deep appreciation for wildlife conservation.

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12. Denver Zoo

Denver, colorado.

The Denver Zoo in the Mile High City offers interactive events like interactions with llamas Jorge and Fernando, along with diverse cultural performances. Kids will be eager for the opportunity to join the zoo’s ‘Bunk with the Beasts’ overnight stay, which features up-close encounters with the animals as well as a pizza dinner, snack, and breakfast. 

Behind the scenes of the Denver Zoo, the Field Conservation and Emergency Wildlife Response teams work tirelessly to safeguard species from threats like habitat loss and human encroachment.

A sloth pup, white gators, and a new giraffe are exciting new additions to the Denver Zoo.

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13. Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium

Pittsburgh, pennsylvania.

Pittsburgh Zoo covers 77 acres and is accredited both as a zoo and aquarium. It is home to over 4,000 animals and 475 species, with 20 of them listed as endangered. The Kid’s Kingdom features interactive exhibits, while the Asian Forest showcases species from Eastern and Southeast Asia including the adorable two new Amur leopard cubs. 

The two-floor Aquarium with a massive 45,000-square-foot tank, and the indoor Tropical Forest that hosts mostly primates add to the Pittsburgh Zoo attractions. Don’t skip the 21+ Summer Safari Event with food, live music, and cocktails.

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What City Is Home to America’s First Zoo?

When it opened on July 1, 1874, the Philadelphia Zoo became the first zoo established in the USA. During its first year of operation, the Philadelphia Zoo housed 813 animals and welcomed more than 228,000 visitors. 

What Is the Largest Urban Zoo in the U.S.?

Residing upon 265 acres a few miles northeast of Yankee Stadium, the Bronx Zoo is the largest urban zoo in the country. Because of the sheer size of the park, visitors may not be able to see everything in a single day without using either the Zoo Shuttle or Wild Asia Monorail. 

What Are the Most Humane Zoos in the U.S.?

You can’t tell for certain. Any zoo that has the Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation (AZA) has a very strict set of ethical standards for animal welfare and endangered species preservation. You can count on all of them being as humane as possible and you can really feel good when visiting. 

How Much Does It Cost to Go to a Zoo in the United States?

It depends. The cost of visiting a zoo in the U.S. varies depending on factors such as the location of the zoo, the size of the zoo, and the time of year. Some zoos offer discounted or free admission on certain days, so ask ahead about any special deals or promotions. 

How Many US Zoos Are AZA Accredited?

As of September 2023, there are 237 institutions accredited by AZA and 15 related facilities with AZA accreditation. For a complete list of all AZA accredited zoos visit their official website.

Laura Ray has lived in Atlanta, the Bay Area, SoCal, and Austin. After moving from Texas, she and her husband rambled about the Midwest in a camper for a couple of years before finally settling on 35 acres in their home state of Kentucky. When she isn't clacking around on the keyboard (cat in lap), you can find her practicing yoga, gardening, or playing the ukulele. This travel-lover's favorite destinations include Italy, the Greek isles, and Kentucky Lake.