10 Best Zoos in the U.S. (Rated by Parents)
We’re gathering votes and reviews for the best zoos in the U.S. on this interactive list, where you are invited to “like” your favorites and share your experience to help create the ultimate list of best zoos in the United States!
Help animal-loving families plan their next adventure by leaving a review for any zoos you’ve visited below, and share your tips for making the most out of a visit there with kids.
Think the list is missing one of the best zoos in the U.S.? Recommend it below! And, be sure to browse more family vacation ideas from fellow parents here on Upparent.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Kelly R.: We were lucky to live just down the road from the Columbus Zoo for years, and I spent many hours there with my kids. It truly is a world class zoo with beautiful exhibits, many hands-on opportunities, and fun play areas sprinkled around. One of the essential things to do in Columbus with kids, whether you're a local or a visitor! I appreciate the convenient suburban location, so no navigating of city traffic is required, and you can see a lot without feeling like you're doing a ton of walking.
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Hannah Scott: Perhaps best known as the home of Fiona the Hippo, the Cincinnati Zoo is a must-see for any visitors to the Queen City. A host of indoor and outdoor exhibits and encounters let you get up close and personal with creatures from all over the world (without ever leaving the heart of the city). I would recommend springing for the upgraded "Ride Ticket" to enjoy unlimited carousel and train rides during your visit!
Tip: Breastfeeding moms can take advantage of the free Nursing Nest under the Base Camp Café!
Brookfield Zoo
Brittany Kozielski: Brookfield Zoo houses around 450 species of animals on 216 acres. Don't miss their dolphin show! After going to the zoo for years I discovered the Hamill Family Play Zoo & Wild Encounters. The Play Zoo is perfect for kids up to age 10 and is very hands-on and lots of fun. During the day you can hear a zookeeper discuss certain animals and walk around with them for kids to pet. Enter the Wild Encounters section and you will be surrounded by red pandas, llamas, alpacas, wallabies, and reindeer...and can even pet and feed some of them!
Milwaukee County Zoo
Shila: Visit over 2,000 mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles in specialized habitats spanning 200 wooded acres. Explore educational wildlife shows and fun attractions such as: Feed a Giraffe Experience, Seal & Sea Lion Show, Safari Train, Playground, Carousel & more! Swing by the Family Farm area of the Milwaukee County Zoo for an up close and interactive experience with native Wisconsin wildlife and farm animals.
Saint Louis Zoo
Lisa R: The St. Louis Zoo is home to 16,000+ animals that include rare and endangered species from all over the world as well as more familiar favorites, like goats and guinea pigs, that kids can pet. You'll find nature-themed play areas that include water features, sandboxes, and climbing structures, a narrated train ride, a carousel, a 4D theater, and lots of shows and public feedings. Budget lots of time for his one, because there's no way you can see it all.
Audubon Zoo
Gina I.: See animals from across the globe in the heart of Uptown NOLA! The zoo features a number of animal exhibits from the Louisiana Swamp to the African Savannah. Whether you like giraffes, flamingos, reptiles, or elephants, kids are sure to see their favorites!
Fort Worth Zoo
Stephanie W.: The Fort Worth Zoo currently houses over 540 species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians from all over the world. They host Zookeeper Chats, giraffe feeding experience, an interactive stingray exhibit, Safari Splash water play area, educational animal encounters, train, carousel, and more!
Primary photo: Grahm S. Jones, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Upparent collects community-submitted recommendations and reviews, and any ideas that are shared reflect the opinions of individual contributors.
