
Zoos bring the wild to your backyard, and each state has a crown jewel of its own. We’ve compiled a list of the biggest zoos in all 50 states so you can plan your next animal-filled adventure. Here’s a look at the wildest destinations across America.
Alabama: Birmingham Zoo

With over 200 species, Birmingham Zoo is Alabama’s largest. Visitors can explore various exhibits, from African elephants to sea lions. The zoo’s conservation efforts and hands-on educational programs make it a hit for families looking to learn about wildlife.
Alaska: Alaska Zoo

Alaska Zoo is home to a wide variety of native wildlife, including grizzly bears and wolves. Located in Anchorage, it offers a unique opportunity to see species that thrive in cold climates. It is Alaska’s largest and provides education on Arctic conservation.
Arizona: Phoenix Zoo

As the largest zoo in Arizona, Phoenix Zoo covers over 125 acres and houses more than 3,000 animals. From giraffes to jaguars, the zoo’s extensive wildlife habitats showcase species from all over the world. Known to be a favorite destination for both locals and tourists.
Arkansas: Little Rock Zoo

Little Rock Zoo, Arkansas’ biggest, is home to over 500 animals from 200 species. Its beautiful countryside habitats make it a great place to explore, with everything from tigers to penguins. The zoo’s hands-on learning exhibits are especially popular with kids.
California: San Diego Zoo

As California’s largest zoo, it’s known for its innovative habitats and breeding programs for endangered species. San Diego Zoo is world-famous, exhibiting over 650 species across 100 acres. Whether you’re fascinated by pandas or big cats, it’s a must-see
Colorado: Denver Zoo

Covering 80 acres, Denver Zoo is Colorado’s largest and a leader in animal conservation. With over 4,000 animals, including rare species like snow leopards, it’s an essential stop for animal lovers. The eco-friendly exhibits make it stand out in the zoo community.
Connecticut: Beardsley Zoo

Located in Bridgeport, Beardsley Zoo is Connecticut’s largest. Known for its rare animals like the Amur leopard, it focuses on conserving endangered species. The zoo’s charming size makes it a family-friendly destination that offers an intimate wildlife experience.
Delaware: Brandywine Zoo

This Zoo may be small, but it’s Delaware’s largest, with a focus on exotic and endangered species. Located in Wilmington, it’s a peaceful place to explore wildlife exhibits, from red pandas to condors. Its educational programs are a highlight for families.
Florida: Miami Zoo

Miami Zoo is the largest in Florida and the only subtropical zoo in the U.S. Covering 750 acres, home to over 3,000 animals, including elephants, lions, and Komodo dragons. The open-air exhibits and focus on conservation make it a top attraction.
Georgia: Zoo Atlanta

The zoo’s interactive exhibits and focus on education make it a fun and engaging destination for visitors of all ages. And, as Georgia’s largest, Zoo Atlanta features over 1,000 animals across 40 acres. Famed for its giant pandas and gorilla conservation program.
Hawaii: Honolulu Zoo

Honolulu Zoo, the largest in Hawaii, showcases a wide range of tropical species. Located in the heart of Honolulu, it’s a great spot for visitors to explore everything from African lions to local Hawaiian wildlife. Its lush environment is perfect for a relaxing day out.
Idaho: Zoo Boise

Located in the heart of Boise, this zoo brings a touch of the wild to Idaho’s capital. Offering diverse exhibits from African lions to endangered frogs, Zoo Boise also focuses on conservation. Its engaging layout and animal encounters make it a fun stop for all ages.
Illinois: Brookfield Zoo

With over 216 acres of space, Brookfield Zoo stands as one of Illinois’ most impressive attractions. Has more than 450 species and world-class immersive habitats. A visitor favorite is its dolphin show, showcasing the zoo’s unique aquatic focus.
Indiana: Indianapolis Zoo

As a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden all in one, the Indianapolis Zoo is a triple treat. Families flock here to see everything from dolphins to orangutans. This place is a blend of education and entertainment, perfect for animal lovers of all ages.
Iowa: Blank Park Zoo

This small but impactful zoo offers an intimate experience with over 100 species of animals. Visitors can enjoy watching sea lions, giraffes, and more while learning about the zoo’s conservation efforts. The friendly, compact atmosphere makes it a great day out for families.
Kansas: Sedgwick County Zoo

In Wichita, Sedgwick County Zoo houses over 3,000 animals, offering visitors a journey through global ecosystems. Famous for its immersive African plains exhibit, where rhinos, giraffes, and zebras roam freely, it provides a true safari feel.
Kentucky: Louisville Zoo

This sprawling 134-acre zoo in Kentucky is home to gorillas, lions, and polar bears. Louisville Zoo’s focus on interactive experiences makes it stand out, with guests loving the opportunity to interact with giraffes and learn from zookeepers.
Louisiana: Audubon Zoo

Located in New Orleans, Audubon Zoo mixes exotic wildlife with Louisiana’s native species. White tigers, alligators, and swamp creatures showcase the region’s biodiversity. The lush surroundings and festive atmosphere add to its charm.
Maryland: Maryland Zoo in Baltimore

Set in Druid Hill Park, this historic zoo covers 135 acres and is home to over 2,000 animals. Visitors adore the African penguins and giraffe feeding. The combination of conservation efforts and hands-on learning makes it an exciting family destination.
Massachusetts: Franklin Park Zoo

Franklin Park Zoo, just outside Boston, spans over 72 acres and features more than 1,000 animals. Among its highlights are lions, zebras, and a gorilla exhibit. Enjoy city fun while exploring the natural world.
Michigan: Detroit Zoo

Spanning 125 acres, the Detroit Zoo houses over 2,000 animals, including polar bears, which are a crowd favorite. The zoo’s Arctic Ring of Life exhibit offers an immersive experience, bringing visitors face-to-face with wildlife.
Minnesota: Minnesota Zoo

Minnesota Zoo’s 500-acre campus features species from around the world, including tigers and grizzly bears. The zoo is known for its large, open habitats and conservation efforts. The visit here offers both education and up-close animal encounters.
Mississippi: Jackson Zoo

Jackson Zoo covers 175 acres and hosts a variety of species, from big cats to reptiles. Giraffe feeding and interactive exhibits make it a hit for families. The zoo’s focus on conservation shines through in its educational programs
Missouri: Saint Louis Zoo

As one of the nation’s largest free zoos, Saint Louis Zoo is a must-see. Popular exhibits include sea lions and elephants, making it a favorite spot for both kids and adults. Spread across 90 acres, it has over 18,000 animals and impressive conservation efforts.
Montana: ZooMontana

ZooMontana in Billings offers an immersive experience with animals adapted to cold climates. Visitors love the wolves, grizzly bears, and red pandas. There’s nothing like being in the wild to unwind in a peaceful, natural setting like this zoo
Nebraska: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo

One of the best zoos in the world, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo is known for its incredible exhibits, including the world’s largest indoor desert and rainforest. A must-visit for any animal lover and a treasure in the heart of Nebraska.
Nevada: Lion Habitat Ranch

Located near Las Vegas, this sanctuary is home to over 30 lions and other exotic animals. Visitors can watch the lions roam and interact with trainers. An unexpected wildlife experience in a city known for its glitz and glamour.
New Hampshire: Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

This zoo focuses on New Hampshire’s native wildlife, from mountain lions to bald eagles. Set against the scenic backdrop of the White Mountains, it offers guided tours and interactive exhibits that make learning about the local environment exciting.
New Jersey: Turtle Back Zoo

Situated in Essex County, Turtle Back Zoo features a range of animals from giraffes to sea lions. Visitors enjoy the train ride and the penguin exhibit, which is a huge hit with families. It’s a mix of education and outdoor fun for all ages.
New Mexico: ABQ BioPark Zoo

Albuquerque’s ABQ BioPark Zoo is a sprawling, 64-acre gem that houses exotic animals from around the world. Giraffes, elephants, and snow leopards are among the stars. The beautiful setting and variety of exhibits draw visitors year-round.
New York: Bronx Zoo

As one of the largest zoos in the world, the Bronx Zoo exhibits more than 700 species. Its vast size allows for unique, immersive exhibits, like the Congo Gorilla Forest. The iconic Bronx Zoo is a must-visit for anyone exploring New York City.
North Carolina: North Carolina Zoo

This 2,600-acre park is the largest natural habitat zoo in the world, offering a safari-like experience. African elephants, rhinos, and chimpanzees roam spacious enclosures. A special feature of this park is its emphasis on conservation and its expansive grounds
North Dakota: Red River Zoo

Located in Fargo, Red River Zoo focuses on animals from cold-weather regions, such as red pandas and wolves. The zoo’s size makes it easy to guide the way, but there’s plenty to see and learn about the animals and their habitats.
Ohio: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

The Columbus Zoo is famous for its extensive collection, including over 10,000 animals and exhibits like the Polar Frontier. And, it has a reputation as one of the best zoos in the country is well-earned, making it a beloved spot for families.
Oklahoma: Oklahoma City Zoo

Spans over 120 acres and features more than 1,900 animals, with highlights including lions, elephants, and a Great EscApe exhibit for primates. Oklahoma City Zoo also offers exciting animal encounters and shows, making it a fun, educational trip.
Oregon: Oregon Zoo

In Portland, Oregon Zoo is home to elephants, penguins, and over 2,000 other animals. Among the zoo’s key features is its renowned elephant breeding program. There are also scenic walking paths and engaging exhibits for visitors to enjoy.
Pennsylvania: Philadelphia Zoo

As the first zoo in the United States, Philadelphia Zoo is steeped in history but remains advanced. Its Zoo360 trails allow animals like big cats and primates to roam above visitors’ heads, creating a unique and immersive experience.
Rhode Island: Roger Williams Park Zoo

In Providence, Roger Williams Park Zoo is home to over 150 species, including giraffes, elephants, and snow leopards. This zoo’s scenic location and focus on conservation make it a relaxing and educational experience for the whole family.
South Carolina: Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia stands out for its lush gardens as well as its animal exhibits. Over 2,000 animals, from African elephants to kangaroos, call this zoo home. Visitors love the interactive elements, such as giraffe feeding and zip-lining.
South Dakota: Great Plains Zoo

Sioux Falls’ Great Plains Zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals, including Amur tigers and black rhinos. Its interactive exhibits, such as the walk-through primate exhibit, offer hands-on fun. A small but impactful zoo, it’s perfect for a family day out.
Tennessee: Memphis Zoo

The Memphis Zoo is known for its diverse animal collection and sprawling exhibits. The Teton Trek and Zambezi River Hippo Camp are visitor favorites. This zoo’s immersive environments make it one of the top attractions in the state.
Texas: Houston Zoo

Set in Hermann Park, Houston Zoo covers 55 acres and features over 6,000 animals. Guests love its Asian elephant habitat and its state-of-the-art gorilla exhibit. With its educational programs and scenic layout, it’s a must-see in Texas.
Utah: Hogle Zoo

Hogle Zoo is located at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains and is known for its stunning backdrop and diverse animal exhibits. The zoo’s African Savannah and Rocky Shores exhibits are crowd-pleasers. Its peaceful atmosphere adds to its charm.
Vermont: ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

Though smaller, ECHO Leahy Center focuses on aquatic life and ecology, showcasing Vermont’s local wildlife. Interactive exhibits on marine life and conservation make it a hit with kids. A visit here is both fun and informative.
Virginia: Virginia Zoo

Set in the heart of Norfolk, the Virginia Zoo offers 53 acres filled with over 700 animals. A favorite among visitors is the Trail of the Tiger, showcasing Asian wildlife. Alongside immersive exhibits, the zoo fosters a deep connection with nature.
Washington: Woodland Park Zoo

Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo invites you into a world of more than 300 species. The African Savanna and Northern Trail are crowd-pleasers, giving guests an immersive experience. Making it a top choice for learning about global wildlife.
West Virginia: Oglebay Good Zoo

Wheeling’s Oglebay Good Zoo is small but mighty, focusing on conservation. Red pandas, cheetahs, and river otters charm visitors. This intimate zoo provides a peaceful experience, while its dedication to endangered species stands out.
Wisconsin: Milwaukee County Zoo

In Milwaukee, this 190-acre zoo is a wildlife lover’s dream, housing over 2,000 animals. Highlights include the impressive Big Cat Country and aquatic habitats. A great blend of excitement and educational exhibits for all ages.
Wyoming: Kindness Ranch Animal Sanctuary

Wyoming may lack traditional zoos, but it has Kindness Ranch Animal Sanctuary, a noble haven for animals used in lab research. They focus on rehabilitation and sanctuary, nurturing compassion for all creatures. This place provides a safe, loving environment, promoting awareness and understanding of animal welfare in the community.