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When school’s out, it doesn’t mean that field trips are over. In fact, now you get to chaperone the summer trip your kids will be writing about when class is back in session. Why not add on to the family reunion or make a mad dash to some of the more renowned and innovative zoos around the country? From urban refuges to conservation-focused centers, these top-ranked zoos provide immersive and educational experiences into the animal kingdom, making them must-visit destinations for wildlife enthusiasts and families like yours.
Nestled in the heart of Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo is a living library of wildlife, housing over 14,000 rare and endangered animals across 700 species. What sets this zoo apart is its award-winning Elephant Odyssey, a time travel experience through the elephant's evolutionary history combined with an up-close encounter with these majestic creatures. The Australian Outback exhibit gives visitors a glimpse of the largest collection of koalas outside of Australia, while Africa Rocks spotlights animals from six different African habitats, including penguins from the rocky shores and lemurs from Madagascar's dry forests.
Established in 1875, the Cincinnati Zoo holds the title as the second-oldest zoo in the U.S. If you love hippos, this is the place for you. Not only is it home to the world-renowned Fiona, but her habitat also allows for some unique underwater viewing through special portals. There is also a special bubble pop-up experience to view meerkats up close and personal, or watch cheetahs sprinting at jaw-dropping speeds. This zoo merges historic charm with innovative animal exhibits, making it a fascinating visit for everyone.
In the bustling city of New York lies the massive Bronx Zoo, sprawling across 265 acres and hosting more than 600 species. It's the largest urban zoo in the U.S., and like most things in New York, it's complex enough to require a strategic plan to cover all the high-priority attractions. It also has its own mass transit, The Wild Asia Monorail that transports guests through the heart of Asian wilderness and the Congo Gorilla Forest, offering a one-of-a-kind rainforest experience. The sheer scale and diversity of this zoo's habitats and animal life are only matched by the city itself.
At the St. Louis Zoo, the motto is “Animals Always” as they care for and showcase over 600 different species. Better still, they’re also known for their free admission, making a day at the zoo accessible to everyone. Cleverly divided into six thematic zones that offer a different vibe and experience, The Red Rocks features camels and giraffes while The Wild features apes, polar bears and penguins. Aquatic admirers will enjoy the award-winning Sea Lion Sound, where visitors can watch playful sea lions glide overhead through an underwater tunnel. With a strong emphasis on education and conservation, the St. Louis Zoo provides an enriching exploration of wildlife in beautifully crafted habitats.
ZooMontana may be smaller than its counterparts, but it offers a unique focus on wildlife native to the Rockies and high-altitude regions across the Northern Hemisphere. Here, visitors can marvel at American bison as they roam freely, observe the behaviors of gray wolves and encounter grizzly bears up close. The zoo's international representation, including Sichuan takins and red pandas, adds a fascinating layer to its exhibits, highlighting the importance of biodiversity and conservation in a picturesque setting.