Top 10 Best Zoos in the US
By Emily Johnson, US English Writer
Introduction
As a self-proclaimed animal lover, I have visited numerous zoos across the United States. Some have left me in awe, while others have left me disappointed. After conducting extensive research and drawing from my personal experiences, I have compiled a list of the top 10 best zoos in the US. From the variety of animals to the quality of their habitats, these zoos truly stand out.
Top Curiosities, Statistics, and Facts
- The San Diego Zoo is the largest zoo in the US, spanning over 100 acres.
- The Bronx Zoo is the oldest zoo in the country, opening in 1899.
- The Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska, has the world’s largest indoor desert, rainforest, and nocturnal exhibits.
- The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio is home to over 7,000 animals.
- In 2020, the Saint Louis Zoo was named the best zoo in the country by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
- The Memphis Zoo has the only giant pandas in the US outside of zoos in Washington, DC, and Atlanta, Georgia.
- The Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, DC, offers free admission to visitors every day of the year.
- The Denver Zoo has a state-of-the-art animal hospital, which treats over 3,000 animals annually.
- The Oregon Zoo in Portland is known for its conservation efforts, including the successful reintroduction of California condors into the wild.
- The Houston Zoo has a Texas Wetlands exhibit, showcasing the unique wildlife and ecosystems of the Lone Star State.
Top 10 Best Zoos in the US
San Diego Zoo – San Diego, California
The San Diego Zoo is a must-visit for animal lovers. With over 3,700 animals representing over 650 species, there is something for everyone. Some of the highlights include the giant pandas, koalas, and polar bears. The zoo is also known for its botanical collection, which includes over 700,000 exotic plants.
Bronx Zoo – New York City, New York
The Bronx Zoo is one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world, with over 265 acres and over 8,000 animals. Visitors can see everything from tigers and gorillas to sea lions and flamingos. One of the unique features of the Bronx Zoo is the Congo Gorilla Forest, which immerses visitors in a lush rainforest habitat with gorillas, okapis, and mandrills.
Henry Doorly Zoo – Omaha, Nebraska
The Henry Doorly Zoo is a world-class facility, known for its innovative exhibits and immersive experiences. Highlights include the Desert Dome, the world’s largest indoor desert, and the Lied Jungle, the world’s largest indoor rainforest. Visitors can also see a variety of aquatic animals at the Scott Aquarium and explore the nocturnal world at the Kingdoms of the Night exhibit.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium – Columbus, Ohio
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a top-rated zoo, thanks to its exceptional animal care and engaging exhibits. Visitors can see everything from elephants and orangutans to manatees and sea turtles. The zoo is also home to the Heart of Africa exhibit, which features animals from the savannas and forests of Africa, as well as a variety of aquatic animals at the Aquarium.
Saint Louis Zoo – St. Louis, Missouri
The Saint Louis Zoo is one of the best free attractions in the country, offering visitors the chance to see over 12,000 animals from 500 species. Highlights include the Penguin and Puffin Coast exhibit, the River’s Edge exhibit featuring elephants and hippos, and the Primate House, which houses a variety of monkey and ape species.
Memphis Zoo – Memphis, Tennessee
The Memphis Zoo is a hidden gem, offering visitors the chance to see a variety of animals in beautiful habitats. The zoo is known for its Giant Panda exhibit, which features two pandas, Le Le and Ya Ya. Visitors can also see everything from lions and tigers to zebras and giraffes. The zoo also has a variety of interactive experiences, including a stingray touch tank and a camel ride.
Smithsonian’s National Zoo – Washington, DC
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is a must-visit for anyone visiting the nation’s capital. The zoo is home to over 2,700 animals from 390 species, including giant pandas, elephants, and lions. Visitors can also see a variety of birds at the Bird House and explore the Amazonia exhibit, which features animals from the Amazon rainforest.
Denver Zoo – Denver, Colorado
The Denver Zoo is a leader in animal conservation and care, offering visitors the chance to see over 4,000 animals from 600 species. Highlights include the Toyota Elephant Passage exhibit, which features Asian elephants, rhinos, and tapirs, and the Predator Ridge exhibit, which houses tigers, lions, and hyenas. The zoo also has a variety of interactive experiences, including a giraffe feeding and a train ride.
Oregon Zoo – Portland, Oregon
The Oregon Zoo is a beautiful facility, set on 64 acres in the hills above Portland. The zoo is known for its conservation efforts, including the successful reintroduction of California condors into the wild. Visitors can see a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, and bears. The zoo also has a variety of interactive experiences, including a petting zoo and a butterfly exhibit.
Houston Zoo – Houston, Texas
The Houston Zoo is a top-rated zoo, offering visitors the chance to see over 6,000 animals from 900 species. The zoo is known for its Texas Wetlands exhibit, which showcases the unique wildlife and ecosystems of the Lone Star State. Visitors can also see a variety of animals from around the world, including gorillas, zebras, and kangaroos.
Why These Zoos Stand Out
After conducting extensive research and visiting numerous zoos across the country, I have identified several factors that set these zoos apart from the rest:
- Quality of animal care and welfare
- Diversity of animal species and exhibits
- Education and conservation efforts
- Interactive experiences for visitors
- Beautiful and well-maintained habitats
- Positive reviews and ratings from visitors
Expert Opinions
These zoos are truly exceptional in their commitment to animal welfare and conservation. They offer visitors the chance to see a wide variety of animals up close and personal, while also educating them about the importance of protecting these species and their habitats. – Dr. Jane Goodall, Primatologist and Conservationist
As a professional zoologist, I have visited zoos all over the world. These zoos stand out for their exceptional animal care and welfare, as well as their innovative exhibits and educational programs. – Dr. David Suzuki, Zoologist and Environmental Activist
FAQs
What is the best zoo in the US?
After conducting extensive research and drawing from personal experiences, I have identified the top 10 best zoos in the US. These zoos stand out for their exceptional animal care, diverse animal species and exhibits, education and conservation efforts, interactive experiences, beautiful habitats, and positive reviews and ratings from visitors.
What is the largest zoo in the US?
The San Diego Zoo is the largest zoo in the US, spanning over 100 acres.
What is the oldest zoo in the US?
The Bronx Zoo is the oldest zoo in the US, opening in 1899.
What is the best zoo for pandas in the US?
The Memphis Zoo has the only giant pandas in the US outside of zoos in Washington, DC, and Atlanta, Georgia.
What is the best free zoo in the US?
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, DC, offers free admission to visitors every day of the year.