Located in California, the San Diego Zoo is known globally for its pioneering open-air exhibits and conservation efforts. With over 12,000 animals and 650 species, it offers a truly immersive experience in diverse habitats.
Situated in New York City, the Bronx Zoo is the largest metropolitan zoo in the U.S., featuring over 6,000 animals across 700 species. It’s famous for its extensive wildlife habitats, including the Congo Gorilla Forest and Tiger Mountain.
3. Smithsonian's National Zoo - Visit Here
Located in Washington, D.C., this zoo is part of the Smithsonian Institution and offers free admission. Visitors can explore over 2,700 animals, including its iconic giant pandas.
4. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium - Visit Here
The Columbus Zoo in Ohio is home to more than 10,000 animals representing 600 species. Its mix of exhibits and family-friendly experiences, like the water park and aquarium, make it a top destination.
5. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium - Visit Here
Recognized for its massive indoor exhibits, this Nebraska zoo features the world’s largest indoor desert and the largest nocturnal exhibit. Its conservation programs are also internationally acclaimed.
Located in Missouri, the St. Louis Zoo is one of the few major zoos offering free admission. Home to more than 16,000 animals, it is known for its wildlife conservation programs and family-oriented exhibits.
7. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden - Visit Here
This zoo in Ohio is one of the oldest in the country and is famous for its successful breeding programs, particularly for endangered species like cheetahs and black rhinos. Don’t miss Fiona, the world-famous hippo!
With over 6,000 animals and numerous interactive exhibits, this Texas zoo focuses on conservation both locally and globally. Visitors can enjoy close encounters with giraffes and elephants.
9. Philadelphia Zoo - Visit Here
America’s first zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo, is known for its innovative animal trails that give large animals more freedom to roam. It features over 1,300 animals and historic architecture.
10. Brookfield Zoo - Visit Here
Located in Illinois, the Brookfield Zoo features naturalistic exhibits, including the Great Bear Wilderness and Australia House. It is committed to research, education, and wildlife protection.
Located in Michigan, this zoo is known for its Arctic Ring of Life exhibit, where visitors can observe polar bears swimming above them. The zoo is a leader in animal welfare and conservation.
As Texas’ largest zoo, the Dallas Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals. Its Giants of the Savanna exhibit allows elephants, giraffes, and zebras to roam together in a naturalistic setting.
13. Los Angeles Zoo - Visit Here
Located in California, the LA Zoo houses more than 1,400 animals, many of which are endangered. It also features lush botanical gardens and focuses heavily on wildlife conservation.
Zoo Miami is the only subtropical zoo in the continental U.S., making it ideal for species from warm climates. Its open-air exhibits mimic the animals’ natural environments.
Located in Apple Valley, Minnesota, this zoo is known for its immersive exhibits, including a tropical rainforest and a grizzly bear exhibit. It is also involved in global conservation programs.
Located in Colorado, this zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals. Its Toyota Elephant Passage and Predator Ridge exhibits offer engaging experiences for animal lovers.
17. San Francisco Zoo - Visit Here
Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, the San Francisco Zoo houses over 2,000 exotic, endangered, and rescued animals. It is famous for its Lemur Forest and Grizzly Gulch exhibits.
As a non-profit organization, the Phoenix Zoo in Arizona is dedicated to animal conservation. The zoo features exhibits showcasing native and international species, including cheetahs, orangutans, and camels.
Home to more than 3,500 animals, the Memphis Zoo has award-winning exhibits like Teton Trek and China, where you can see pandas. It also emphasizes conservation and research.
20. Indianapolis Zoo - Visit Here
Combining a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden, this Indiana facility is known for its dolphin exhibit and African Savanna. It actively participates in international conservation efforts.
21. Woodland Park Zoo - Visit Here
Located in Seattle, Washington, this zoo focuses on sustainability and species recovery. Visitors can experience close encounters with animals in naturalistic exhibits.
22. Kansas City Zoo - Visit Here
With over 1,700 animals, this zoo in Missouri is known for its African Plains exhibit, penguin habitat, and fun train rides.
Located in Portland, this zoo is known for its conservation of elephants and other endangered species. It features a variety of exhibits, including the Pacific Northwest and the African Savannah.
24. North Carolina Zoo - Visit Here
As the largest natural habitat zoo in the world, this North Carolina zoo spans 2,600 acres and offers expansive exhibits showcasing species from Africa and North America.
25. Milwaukee County Zoo - Visit Here
With over 2,000 animals, the Milwaukee Zoo in Wisconsin offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and conservation initiatives. |