Zoos are wonderful places that offer an opportunity to see animals up close and learn about their habits and habitats. They also serve as centers for conservation and education.
So if you’re someone who struggles with directions or simply wants to simplify your travel experience, give mapquest driving directions a try. If you’re planning a visit to the United States in 2023 and love animals, then you’ll definitely want to visit some of the best zoos in the country. Here are the top 10 best zoos in the US to visit in 2023.
San Diego Zoo – San Diego, California
The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the world. It is home to over 3,700 animals of more than 650 species and subspecies. The zoo is known for its animal habitats that mimic the natural environment of the animals, including the Panda Trek, Polar Bear Plunge, and Gorilla Tropics. Visitors can take a guided tour, ride the Skyfari aerial tram, or watch one of the animal shows.
Bronx Zoo – New York City, New York
The Bronx Zoo is one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world. It is home to over 6,000 animals from 650 species. Visitors can explore the zoo’s animal habitats, including the African Plains, Himalayan Highlands, and World of Birds. The zoo also offers a variety of activities, including the Bug Carousel, Butterfly Garden, and the Wild Asia Monorail.
Lincoln Park Zoo – Chicago, Illinois
The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States. It is home to over 1,200 animals from 230 species. The zoo’s animal habitats include the Regenstein Center for African Apes, McCormick Bird House, and the Kovler Lion House. Visitors can also enjoy the Nature Boardwalk, which features a pond, wetland, and prairie.
Henry Doorly Zoo – Omaha, Nebraska
The Henry Doorly Zoo is one of the top-rated zoos in the United States. It is home to over 17,000 animals from 962 species. The zoo’s animal habitats include the Lied Jungle, Desert Dome, and Kingdoms of the Night. Visitors can also enjoy the Skyfari aerial tram, train ride, and butterfly pavilion.
Smithsonian National Zoo – Washington D.C.
The Smithsonian National Zoo is a must-visit destination in the nation’s capital. It is home to over 2,700 animals from 390 species. The zoo’s animal habitats include the American Trail, Asia Trail, and Elephant Trails. Visitors can also enjoy the National Zoo’s Giant Panda habitat, which is home to Tian Tian, Mei Xiang, and their cubs.
Memphis Zoo – Memphis, Tennessee
The Memphis Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals from 500 species. The zoo’s animal habitats include the Zambezi River Hippo Camp, Cat Country, and Penguin Rock. Visitors can also enjoy the zoo’s Conservation Carousel, tram ride, and the Teton Trek exhibit.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium – Powell, Ohio
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is one of the largest and most popular zoos in the United States. It is home to over 10,000 animals from 600 species. The zoo’s animal habitats include the Heart of Africa, North America, and the Polar Frontier. Visitors can also enjoy the zoo’s rides and attractions, including the Jungle Jack’s Landing amusement park and Zoombezi Bay water park.
Houston Zoo – Houston, Texas
The Houston Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals from 900 species. The zoo’s animal habitats include the Kipp Aquarium, McNair Asian Elephant Habitat, and the Kipp Children’s Zoo. Visitors can also enjoy the zoo’s Wildlife Carousel, train ride, and the African Forest exhibit.
Oregon Zoo – Portland, Oregon
The Oregon Zoo is home to over 2,600 animals from 215 species. The zoo’s animal habitats include the Elephant Lands, Africa Savanna, and the Great Northwest. Visitors can also enjoy the zoo’s Conservation Carousel, train ride, and the Discovery Zone exhibit.
Denver Zoo – Denver, Colorado
The Denver Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from 600 species. The zoo’s animal habitats include the Predator Ridge, Tropical Discovery, and the Toyota Elephant Passage. Visitors can also enjoy the zoo’s train ride, carousel, and the Stingray Cove exhibit.
Each of these zoos offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in learning about animals from around the world, participating in conservation efforts, or just enjoying a day out with family and friends, these zoos have something for everyone.
In addition to animal exhibits, many of these zoos also offer educational programs, such as guided tours, animal encounters, and conservation workshops. Visitors can learn about the animals and their habitats, as well as the zoo’s conservation efforts and initiatives.
Furthermore, many of these zoos are committed to sustainability and environmental conservation. They have implemented practices such as composting, recycling, and renewable energy sources to reduce their environmental impact. By visiting these zoos, visitors can support these initiatives and learn how they can contribute to a more sustainable future.
