There are hundreds of zoological parks across the US, including over 200 accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). However, according to the experts, the following are the 10 best zoos in the USA.
10. ZooMontana: Billings, Montana
Insight into the rich biodiversity of Big Sky Country is on full display at ZooMontana. You’ll find many of the state’s beloved species, including American bison, gray wolves, grizzly bears, and more. Its international animal displays include red pandas, Sichuan takins, and a wide variety of other animals from around the world.
9. Saint Louis Zoo: St. Louis, Missouri
Offering free admission to the public, Saint Louis Zoo is situated within one of America’s largest urban parks. There’s a stunning diversity of animals, totaling over 600 species. It’s divided into six zones. At Lakeside Crossing, you’ll explore the award-winning Sea Lion Sound which combines a stellar exhibit with educational presentations and shows.
8. San Diego Zoo: San Diego, California
Along with its Safari Park, the zoo offers one of the largest, most diverse zoological collections worldwide. Visitors can explore different zones. The Australian Outback exhibit features the largest collection of koalas outside Australia. The Elephant Odyssey has a one-of-a-kind Elephant Care Center. Africa Rocks houses six different habitats from the continent, featuring penguins, lemurs, leopards, numerous birds, and more.
7. Audubon Zoo: New Orleans, Louisiana
Animals from all corners of the globe are here. The wildlife lives in a verdant preserve inside one of New Orleans’ most picturesque parks. Local species are on display too, like the Louisiana pine snake and the black bear. Check out the Louisiana Swamp Boardwalk for a true Bayou experience. The Jaguar Jungle area is home to resident big cats.
6. Brevard Zoo: Melbourne, Florida
The AZA-accredited Brevard Zoo is home to more than 900 animals. Here, visiting the zoo is more than just observing – it becomes an adventurous experience like no other. Guests can zip-line through a simulation of the jungles of South America. The truly adventurous visitors can kayak through the African savanna or a restored Florida wetland.
5. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Colorado Springs, Colorado
You’ll find more than 750 animals representing some 170 species from throughout the globe here. The African Rift Valley exhibit houses one of the continent’s largest giraffe exhibits, red river hogs, meerkats, African lions, and colobus monkeys. The Rocky Mountain Wild houses regional species such as moose, grizzly bears, mountain lions, river otters, Mexican gray wolves, bald eagles, and lynx.
4. Honolulu Zoo: Honolulu, Hawaii
Located in Hawaii’s largest city, this 42-acre zoo showcases the biodiversity of the Aloha State. You’ll find nene goose, kolea, and a wealth of other native bird species. Elephants, and other eye-catching animals, such as the Sumatran tiger and African wild dog, are among the other major draws for visitors.
3. North Carolina Zoo: Asheboro, North Carolina
The zoo spreads across 2,600 acres which features native North American fauna and spectacular wooded landscapes. Its massive Prairie Habitat boasts American bison, elk, and more. The Watani Grasslands Habitat features an incredible look at the herbivore biodiversity that’s found across sub-Saharan Africa. You’ll also find a large herd of elephants.
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2. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden: Cincinnati, Ohio
One of the oldest zoos in the nation, visitors can gain up-close views of hippos underwater. You can also pop up in a bubble amid meerkats, or watch cheetahs running at full speed. The Night Hunters exhibit offers a multi-sensory environment hosting big cats and other nocturnal predators. Check out Manatee Springs and observe these gentle giants.
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1. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium: Omaha, Nebraska
The Henry Doorly Zoo houses a geodesic dome featuring the world’s largest indoor desert with arid plants and animals. You’ll find peccaries, quail, death adders, rattlesnakes, as well as the world’s most venomous land snake: the inland taipan. The Scott African Grasslands exhibit features 28 acres of habitats housing meerkats, giraffes, elephants, lions, cheetahs, and sable antelopes.
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