Going to the zoo has long been a favorite activity for children and adults, men and women, and people of all nationalities, ethnicity, and cultures. A zoo is a place where people can learn about the world around them. Visitors are educated about animals that are found in their local region as well as species that they may otherwise never have the opportunity to witness. Whether you are a fish lover, giraffe fanatic, or tiger enthusiast, zoos around the United States are amazing attractions that are important businesses to the country. The following is a list of a few of the top zoos found in the United States.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Located in Orlando, Florida, Disney’s Animal Kingdom combines thrill rides with animal exhibits and petting zoos. This place is definitely a different type of zoo, but it is also one of the most popular destinations for animal lovers across the globe. The park is divided into several different sections, each of which combines the natural habitats of various species with rides, restaurants, and shows. The most popular exhibit in the park is located within the African section of the zoo. Here, visitors are able to experience a simulated safari that travels past the homes of the zoo’s giraffes, hippopotamuses, elephants, tigers, and much more. With close to 2,000 different animals and covering a space of 500 acres, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is one of the most exciting zoos in the United States.
Houston Zoo
This Texas-based zoo is considered to be one of the most attended animal parks in North America. The park is most notable for its modern facilities and frequent renovations to the animal exhibits. Private tours at the zoo can be scheduled in advance and give families an exciting look at special animals, private feedings, animal hospitals, and several animal training sessions. The zoo is located on Hermann Park Drive in Houston and offers a changing variety of exhibits. Most recently, the zoo has introduced a dinosaur exhibit, and special shows that educate visitors on the oceans, deserts, and Africa.
San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo in California has long been considered the top zoo in the country due to its enormous size, variety of animals, and commitment to protecting the environment and promoting animal rights. The zoo has become popular for its willingness to think “outside the box” and use many “cage-less” exhibits that allow an even more up close encounter with the animals. The Gian Panda exhibit is a must-see attraction and is incomparable to any other panda exhibit in the world. The San Diego Zoo provides guests with more than 4,000 different animals and close to 900 different species.
Columbus Zoo
The Columbus Zoo located in Columbus, Ohio is one of the nation’s most historic zoos and has been in continuous operation since the 1920s. Animal celebrity Jack Hanna has promoted the zoo and encouraged its growth over the years. The zoo has more than 7,000 different animals and has also accepted recent expansions to include an amusement park and water park. The Columbus Zoo is also popular for its large aquarium and the Polar Bear exhibit.
Lion County Safari
Loxahatchee, Florida is home to a completely different type of animal park. Lion County Safari visitors will enter into a vehicle that take them on a 5 mile drive at their own pace. During the voyage, guests will witness lions, chimpanzees, zebras, and giraffes. While dangerous animals are confined to cages during the day, many of the animals are allowed to roam freely and sometimes even find a comfy spot on the road. While this may hold up your trip for a short period of time, it may be the only chance you will have to be a few feet from an African giraffe. Carnival rides are also found just outside of the nature park.
