Voted one of the nation's Top Five Zoos for Kids, the
Phoenix Zoo is a young, privately-owned zoological park thriving on 125 acres in the heart of the Southwest.
Open 364 days a year, the nonprofit attraction offers Valley families two and a half miles of beautiful
desert walking paths divided between four distinct trails: Tropics, Children's Trail, Africa, and Arizona. Approximately
1,300 animals are on exhibit, including more than 400 species of mammals, 500 species of birds, and 500 species of reptiles and amphibians.
Kids will experience life on a working farm at
Harmony Farm, featuring interactive exhibits and a
large petting zoo designed especially for younger children. Other popular exhibits for families include the Wallaby Walkabout, Enchanted Forest, Leapin' Lagoon
water play area (available Apr-Oct), and a primate walk-through exhibit, Monkey Village.
The creepy-crawly
Reptile House has a glass case of Madagascar hissing cockroaches with a dome center that allows kids to stick their heads right up in the center of the display - ugh! Fear Factor fans, rejoice!
The
Safari Train offers guests a chance to rest their weary feet during a 25-minute narrated tour. Riders receive an entertaining overview of major exhibits and gain insight into the latest animal news and zoo activities. Several trams are
wheelchair and stroller accessible. Rides cost $3 for passengers three and up.
Another fun way to experience the zoo is via
pedal-powered bikes and boats. Rentals start at $11/hour and are available on the east side of the main lake.
Stroller and wheelchair rentals are available at the main gate.
The
Phoenix Zoo carousel is located just inside the main entrance. Families can ride on their choice of a colorful lion, zebra, elephant, or even a sea dragon! No two animals finishes are alike. The carousel operates daily and costs $2 per ride or $12 for a seven-ride punch card.
When your tummy's growling louder than Jai, the zoo's Sumatran tiger, there are
several dining options to choose from. Check the free zoo map for snack bar, grill, and coffee house locations. Families may also bring their own food to enjoy at one of the zoo's many
picnic tables.
The zoo has plenty of drinking fountains and
family-friendly restrooms scattered throughout the park.
The
Phoenix Zoo offers an incredible variety of programs for
family, school/youth, and travel groups, as well as
summer camps and special events scheduled throughout the year. Many programs require advance registration; check our
event calendar prior to your visit.
Night Camp is offered every night of the year in a variety of formats for kids, groups, and families. It is an extremely popular overnight adventure and requires advance registration. Other
birthday party options are also available.
Memberships are a great way to save some money if you are a regular zoo visitor. Details can be found online.
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