Peter MokoenaFrom the misty forests of the Pacific Northwest to the sun-drenched plains of Texas, America’s top zoos are more than just places to see animals — they’re immersive worlds of conservation, education, and awe.
These institutions blend science and storytelling to connect people with wildlife, protect endangered species, and inspire future generations. Whether you’re planning a family trip or exploring the frontiers of animal care, this list showcases the very best zoos across the country — where wonder walks on four legs, swims with fins, and soars on wings.
Top 50 Best Zoos In America – Recent List
1: San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance – San Diego, CA
San Diego Zoo is a global leader in conservation and animal care, home to over 12,000 animals across 650 species. Located in Balboa Park, it features immersive habitats like Africa Rocks and the Polar Bear Plunge. The Skyfari aerial tram and guided bus tours enhance the experience. Its commitment to sustainability and global wildlife partnerships makes it a must-visit destination for animal lovers and conservationists alike.
2: Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium – Omaha, NE
This Nebraska gem boasts the world’s largest indoor desert and rainforest, plus a stunning aquarium. With over 17,000 animals and cutting-edge exhibits like the Lied Jungle and Desert Dome, it’s a powerhouse of education and entertainment. Henry Doorly Zoo is renowned for its breeding programs and immersive environments, making it one of the most scientifically advanced zoos in the country.
3: Bronx Zoo – New York City, NY
Spanning 265 acres in the heart of NYC, the Bronx Zoo is one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world. It features iconic exhibits like the Congo Gorilla Forest, Tiger Mountain, and the Wild Asia Monorail. The zoo’s conservation efforts and educational outreach programs are world-class, offering visitors a deep dive into global biodiversity.
4: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium – Columbus, OH
Made famous by Jack Hanna, this zoo offers seven global regions, including Heart of Africa and Polar Frontier. It’s connected to Zoombezi Bay water park, making it a full-day family adventure. The Columbus Zoo excels in animal care, conservation, and interactive learning, with a strong emphasis on endangered species and habitat preservation.
5: Woodland Park Zoo – Seattle, WA
Woodland Park Zoo is known for its award-winning naturalistic exhibits and commitment to sustainability. Highlights include the Tropical Rain Forest, African Savanna, and the Trail of Vines. The zoo’s conservation programs span 30 countries, and its immersive habitats provide a close-up look at wildlife in ethically designed spaces.
6: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden – Cincinnati, OH
Home to the beloved hippo Fiona, Cincinnati Zoo is one of the oldest in the U.S. It features lush botanical gardens and standout exhibits like Gorilla World and the Africa exhibit. The zoo is a leader in endangered species breeding and offers engaging educational programs for all ages.
7: Saint Louis Zoo – St. Louis, MO
With free admission and over 16,000 animals, the Saint Louis Zoo is a Midwest treasure. Its River’s Edge, Sea Lion Sound, and Penguin & Puffin Coast exhibits are crowd favorites. The zoo’s conservation research and community outreach make it a model for accessible, high-quality animal care.
8: Philadelphia Zoo – Philadelphia, PA
America’s first zoo, Philadelphia Zoo blends history with innovation. Its Zoo360 trail system allows animals to roam above and around visitors. With over 1,300 animals and a strong focus on endangered species, it’s a pioneer in animal welfare and immersive design. The zoo’s educational programs are deeply rooted in science and sustainability.
9: Denver Zoo – Denver, CO
Denver Zoo offers a dynamic experience with exhibits like Toyota Elephant Passage and Predator Ridge. It’s home to over 3,000 animals and emphasizes conservation through immersive habitats and global partnerships. The zoo’s green initiatives and community engagement make it a leader in sustainable zoological practices.
10: Houston Zoo – Houston, TX
Located in Hermann Park, Houston Zoo features over 6,000 animals and standout exhibits like the Galápagos Islands and African Forest. It’s deeply involved in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, with conservation programs in over 30 countries. The zoo’s interactive experiences and educational outreach make it a top destination in Texas.
11: Zoo Atlanta – Atlanta, GA
Zoo Atlanta is one of only a few U.S. zoos to house giant pandas, making it a major draw for animal lovers. Its African Savanna and Scaly Slimy Spectacular reptile house offer immersive experiences. The zoo is deeply committed to conservation and education, with programs supporting gorilla research and amphibian preservation. Its lush, walkable layout and interactive exhibits make it a favorite for families and school groups.
12: Brookfield Zoo – Brookfield, IL
Located just outside Chicago, Brookfield Zoo spans 216 acres and features over 2,000 animals. Highlights include Tropic World, the dolphinarium, and Great Bear Wilderness. The zoo is known for its cutting-edge animal care and conservation science. With a strong focus on accessibility and education, Brookfield Zoo offers behind-the-scenes tours and seasonal events that engage visitors of all ages.
13: Dallas Zoo – Dallas, TX
The Dallas Zoo is the oldest and largest zoological park in Texas, featuring the award-winning Giants of the Savanna exhibit. With over 2,000 animals and a monorail safari, it offers a dynamic and educational experience. The zoo’s commitment to wildlife conservation and its immersive habitats make it a standout destination in the Southwest.
14: Fort Worth Zoo – Fort Worth, TX
Fort Worth Zoo is consistently ranked among the best in the US. It is known for its Texas Wild! exhibit and world-class animal care. It houses over 7,000 animals and offers unique experiences like giraffe feeding and stingray touch tanks. The zoo’s conservation efforts and family-friendly design make it a top destination in Texas.
15: Indianapolis Zoo – Indianapolis, IN
The Indianapolis Zoo blends traditional zoo features with a full aquarium and botanical garden. It’s home to the world’s largest orangutan center and a stunning dolphin dome. The zoo emphasizes animal enrichment and interactive learning, offering behind-the-scenes tours and conservation-focused programming. Its location in White River State Park adds to its appeal.
16: Kansas City Zoo – Kansas City, MO
Kansas City Zoo spans 202 acres and features standout exhibits like the African Sky Safari and Polar Bear Passage. With over 1,700 animals and a strong focus on education, it’s a regional favorite. The zoo’s conservation partnerships and immersive habitats make it a leader in Midwest wildlife education.
17: Los Angeles Zoo – Los Angeles, CA
Nestled in Griffith Park, the LA Zoo offers a diverse collection of animals and exhibits like Rainforest of the Americas and Elephants of Asia. With over 1,400 animals and a strong focus on conservation, it’s a vital part of the city’s cultural landscape. The zoo’s educational programs and sustainability initiatives make it a standout in urban wildlife care.
18: Memphis Zoo – Memphis, TN
Memphis Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals and features immersive exhibits like Zambezi River Hippo Camp and Teton Trek. It’s known for its strong conservation programs and engaging visitor experiences. The zoo’s layout encourages exploration, and its seasonal events make it a year-round destination for families.
19: Milwaukee County Zoo – Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee County Zoo offers over 2,000 animals across 190 acres, with highlights like the Big Cat Country and Aquatic & Reptile Center. The zoo’s train ride and carousel add charm, while its educational programming supports conservation awareness. It’s a beloved institution in Wisconsin with a strong community presence.
20: Minnesota Zoo – Apple Valley, MN
Minnesota Zoo emphasizes naturalistic habitats and regional wildlife, with exhibits like the Northern Trail and Discovery Bay aquarium. It’s a leader in conservation and animal welfare, offering interactive learning and behind-the-scenes tours. The zoo’s focus on native species and immersive design makes it a unique and educational destination.
21: Nashville Zoo – Nashville, TN
Nashville Zoo blends immersive exhibits with adventure, featuring Expedition Peru, a zip line safari, and a massive playground. Home to over 6,000 animals, it’s known for its conservation work with clouded leopards and Andean bears. The zoo’s lush landscaping and interactive experiences make it a favorite for families and thrill-seekers alike.
22: Oakland Zoo – Oakland, CA
Oakland Zoo is a leader in animal welfare and rescue, nestled in the hills east of San Francisco. Its gondola ride offers panoramic views, while the California Trail exhibit showcases native wildlife. The zoo pioneered “protected contact” elephant care, now used globally. With a strong conservation ethos, it’s both scenic and socially impactful.
23: Phoenix Zoo – Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix Zoo is the largest privately owned, non-profit zoo in the U.S., known for its Arizona Trail and camel rides. It houses over 3,000 animals and emphasizes desert conservation. The zoo’s interactive exhibits and seasonal events make it a year-round destination for education and entertainment in the Southwest.
24: Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium – Pittsburgh, PA
This dual zoo-aquarium facility offers unique access to both land and marine wildlife. Highlights include Water’s Edge, where visitors can view polar bears and sea lions up close. The zoo is active in endangered species breeding and global conservation efforts. Its hilly terrain and diverse habitats make for a dynamic visit.
25: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium – Tacoma, WA
Located on Puget Sound, Point Defiance Zoo combines marine and terrestrial exhibits with stunning views. It’s home to polar bears, walruses, and red wolves, with a strong focus on Pacific Northwest conservation. The zoo’s compact layout and engaging programming make it ideal for families and eco-conscious travelers.
26: Riverbanks Zoo & Garden – Columbia, SC
Riverbanks Zoo blends wildlife and horticulture across 170 acres. Its African plains, botanical gardens, and zip line safari offer a rich visitor experience. The zoo is known for its breeding programs and educational outreach. With lush landscapes and diverse species, it’s a top destination in the Southeast.
27: San Antonio Zoo – San Antonio, TX
San Antonio Zoo features over 750 species and standout exhibits like Africa Live! and Amazonia. It’s deeply involved in conservation and animal rescue, with a strong focus on education. The zoo’s immersive habitats and interactive experiences make it a vibrant part of the city’s cultural fabric.
28: Sedgwick County Zoo – Wichita, KS
Sedgwick County Zoo is a Midwest favorite, known for its Elephants of the Zambezi River Valley and immersive African exhibits. With over 3,000 animals and a strong conservation mission, it offers a world-class experience in a welcoming, family-friendly setting. Its layout encourages exploration and learning.
29: Smithsonian’s National Zoo – Washington, D.C.
Part of the Smithsonian Institution, this zoo is renowned for its giant pandas and Amazonia exhibit. Located in Rock Creek Park, it offers free admission and world-class research facilities. The zoo’s global conservation programs and educational initiatives make it a cornerstone of American zoological science.
30: Toledo Zoo – Toledo, OH
Toledo Zoo features over 10,000 animals and standout exhibits like Arctic Encounter and the aquarium. It’s known for its historic architecture and seasonal events, including a spectacular holiday lights display. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and community engagement makes it a beloved institution in Ohio.
31: Utah’s Hogle Zoo – Salt Lake City, UT
Hogle Zoo offers a scenic, family-friendly experience nestled at the base of the Wasatch Mountains. With standout exhibits like Rocky Shores and Asian Highlands, it’s home to polar bears, sea lions, and Amur tigers. The zoo emphasizes conservation and education, with interactive programs and seasonal events. Its compact layout and stunning views make it a top destination in the Intermountain West.
32: Zoo Miami – Miami, FL
Zoo Miami is the only subtropical zoo in the continental U.S., featuring open-air exhibits and lush landscaping. With over 3,000 animals and immersive habitats like Amazon & Beyond, it offers a unique experience. The zoo’s conservation efforts span the globe, and its bilingual programming makes it accessible to diverse audiences. It’s a vibrant, eco-conscious destination in South Florida.
33: Virginia Zoo – Norfolk, VA
Virginia Zoo blends historic charm with modern exhibits like Trail of the Tiger and Africa’s Okavango Delta. Home to over 700 animals, it emphasizes conservation and education through hands-on programs and community outreach. The zoo’s botanical gardens and interactive learning zones make it a peaceful and engaging destination for families.
34: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – Colorado Springs, CO
Perched on a mountainside, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers breathtaking views and intimate animal encounters. It’s known for its giraffe feeding platform and conservation work with endangered species. The zoo’s elevation and layout create a unique visitor experience, blending adventure with education. It’s one of the most scenic and interactive zoos in the country.
35: Binder Park Zoo – Battle Creek, MI
Binder Park Zoo is a hidden gem with one of the largest giraffe herds in the U.S. Its Wild Africa exhibit offers a safari-style experience, and the zoo emphasizes conservation and sustainability. With wooded trails and immersive habitats, it provides a tranquil and educational escape in southern Michigan.
36: Brevard Zoo – Melbourne, FL
Brevard Zoo is known for its kayaking tours through animal habitats — a truly unique experience. With over 900 animals and a strong focus on conservation, it offers interactive exhibits like Expedition Africa and Paws On. The zoo’s community-driven approach and innovative programming make it a standout in Florida.
37: Elmwood Park Zoo – Norristown, PA
Elmwood Park Zoo offers a compact, engaging experience with highlights like giraffe feeding and zip lining over animal enclosures. It’s deeply involved in local conservation and education, with a focus on native species. The zoo’s accessible layout and family-friendly events make it a beloved regional attraction.
38: Great Plains Zoo & Delbridge Museum – Sioux Falls, SD
Great Plains Zoo combines classic exhibits with a strong educational museum. It’s home to snow leopards, rhinos, and a robust collection of mounted specimens. The zoo’s focus on conservation and regional wildlife makes it a key cultural institution in South Dakota.
39: North Carolina Zoo – Asheboro, NC
North Carolina Zoo is the world’s largest natural habitat zoo, spanning over 500 acres. It features expansive African and North American regions, with immersive trails and eco-friendly design. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and animal welfare is reflected in its spacious enclosures and global partnerships.
40: Detroit Zoo – Royal Oak, MI
Detroit Zoo is a pioneer in humane animal care, known for its award-winning Arctic Ring of Life and Polk Penguin Conservation Center. With over 2,000 animals and a strong focus on sustainability, it offers a rich educational experience. The zoo’s green initiatives and immersive exhibits make it a leader in ethical zoology.
41: Alaska Zoo – Anchorage, AK
Alaska Zoo offers a rare chance to see Arctic and sub-Arctic species in their native climate. Home to polar bears, musk oxen, and snow leopards, it emphasizes cold-region conservation. The zoo’s intimate layout and educational programming make it a unique destination for wildlife lovers seeking a northern adventure.
42: Audubon Zoo – New Orleans, LA
Audubon Zoo blends Southern charm with exotic wildlife, featuring the Louisiana Swamp exhibit and a rare white alligator. Located in historic Uptown New Orleans, it’s part of the Audubon Nature Institute. The zoo’s lush grounds, interactive experiences, and conservation focus make it a cultural and ecological gem.
43: Birmingham Zoo – Birmingham, AL
Birmingham Zoo is a regional leader in conservation and education, with over 700 animals and standout exhibits like Trails of Africa. The zoo emphasizes community engagement and animal welfare, offering hands-on learning and seasonal events. Its compact layout and family-friendly design make it a top destination in Alabama.
44: ZooTampa at Lowry Park – Tampa, FL
ZooTampa is known for its manatee rescue program and lush, tropical setting. With interactive exhibits like Expedition Africa and Wallaroo Station, it offers a blend of conservation and entertainment. The zoo’s commitment to endangered species and immersive habitats makes it a standout in Florida’s wildlife scene.
45: Greensboro Science Center – Greensboro, NC
This hybrid facility combines a zoo, aquarium, and science museum, offering a multidimensional learning experience. Highlights include the Revolution Ridge and Wiseman Aquarium. The center’s emphasis on STEM education and conservation makes it a unique and engaging destination for families and school groups.
46: Roger Williams Park Zoo – Providence, RI
One of the oldest zoos in the country, Roger Williams Park Zoo features over 100 species in beautifully landscaped habitats. Highlights include Faces of the Rainforest and the Big Backyard play area. The zoo’s focus on sustainability and community outreach makes it a beloved institution in New England.
47: Como Park Zoo & Conservatory – Saint Paul, MN
Como Park Zoo offers free admission and a charming blend of wildlife and horticulture. With exhibits like the Tropical Encounters and the historic Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, it’s a favorite for locals and tourists alike. The zoo’s accessibility and educational programming make it a model for inclusive public spaces.
48: Zoo Knoxville – Knoxville, TN
Zoo Knoxville is known for its red panda breeding program and immersive habitats like Grasslands Africa. With a strong focus on conservation and animal enrichment, it offers a dynamic visitor experience. The zoo’s playful layout and community involvement make it a rising star in the Southeast.
49: Niabi Zoo – Coal Valley, IL
Niabi Zoo is a small but mighty facility focused on conservation and education. With over 600 animals and a strong emphasis on endangered species, it offers intimate encounters and hands-on learning. The zoo’s quiet setting and passionate staff make it a hidden gem in the Midwest.
50: Buttonwood Park Zoo – New Bedford, MA
Buttonwood Park Zoo is one of the oldest continuously operating zoos in the U.S., known for its commitment to local wildlife and sustainability. With a mix of native and exotic species, it offers educational programs and seasonal events. Its cozy layout and community focus make it a perfect final entry on this list.
Closing
From coast to coast, these 50 zoos represent the best of what modern wildlife care can be — immersive, ethical, and deeply educational. They’re not just places to see animals; they’re sanctuaries of science, storytelling, and stewardship. Whether nestled in mountain ranges or woven into city parks, each zoo on this list plays a vital role in protecting species, inspiring future generations, and reconnecting us with the natural world.
So whether you’re planning a family trip, supporting conservation, or simply chasing wonder — these zoos are waiting to welcome you.