If you’re planning a trip to OKC, OK, then you won’t want to miss the chance to visit the Oklahoma City Zoo. This beautiful zoo is one of the top destinations in the city for tourists and locals alike.
Read more as we’ll take a closer look at everything you need to know about this zoo.
The zoo, established in 1902 and one of the oldest in America, is nestled on a beautiful 119-acre campus at 2101 NE 50th St. This location was carefully crafted to provide an enriched habitat for nearly 2000 animals from all corners of the globe. Come experience this wondrous world that has been around for more than a century.
Those who explore the zoo can expect to be mesmerized by a vast array of animals from around the globe. The most beloved attractions include:
Sanctuary Asia – This remarkable exhibit is home to a variety of endangered Asian species, such as Indian rhinos, Komodo dragons, and red pandas. Visitors have access to both indoor and outdoor spaces so that they can get an up-close look at each animal while learning about the efforts taken to prevent them from extinction. Come explore this amazing collection of creatures.
Great Escape – Surrounded by a meticulously reconstructed natural habitat, this exhibition is where visitors can observe chimpanzees and gorillas in their element as they participate in both animated play and intriguing social interactions.
Cat Forest/Lion Overlook – From African lions to Amur leopards and Sumatran tigers, this incredible exhibit is home to a variety of different cat species. Here, you can witness these majestic predators hunt and play with one another in their natural forested environment.
Oklahoma Trails – Oklahoma’s natural grandeur is on full display at this exhibition, with a plethora of local creatures such as elk, bison, and prairie dogs to marvel over. For visitors who wish to witness something even more enthralling, the Butterfly Garden provides an enchanting view into the realm of native butterflies and other insects.
Aside from the usual attractions, the zoo also curates a wide selection of fun-filled activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy. Some options include:
Zoo Camp – Zoo Camp is a summer camp program, designed for children ages 4-15. This program allows kids to explore the zoo, learn about animals, and participate in hands-on activities.
Zoo Friends Membership – For regular zoo visitors, the Zoo Friends Membership program offers a world of benefits! Enjoy unlimited access to all zoo attractions and take advantage of discounted prices on food, souvenirs, and more.
Wild Encounter Tours – Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Wild Encounter Tour and get up close to some of your favorite animals. Our knowledgeable guide will walk you through each step, providing expert insights into the animal kingdom and our collective conservation efforts. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can’t be missed.
ZooRun – Experience the stunning grounds of the zoo as you stride and challenge yourself at ZooRun’s 5K, 10K, or half-marathon courses. This annual event gives runners a thrilling opportunity to take in captivating views of all their favorite animals and exhibits.
Tips For Visiting The Oklahoma City Zoo
If you’re planning a trip to the Oklahoma City Zoo, here are some tips to help ensure that your visit is successful:
1. Plan Ahead – The zoo can get crowded throughout the day, so it’s best to plan your visit in advance and purchase tickets online. This will also allow you to avoid long lines at the ticket kiosks.
2. Bring Cash – Most of the zoo’s attractions and activities require cash, so it’s best to bring some with you. There are ATMs, but they can be hard to find and often have long lines.
3. Wear Comfortable Shoes – The zoo is spread out over a large area, so it’s best to wear comfortable shoes. There are plenty of paths and walkways, but some areas may require a bit of hiking.
4. Check the Zoo Website – Make sure to check the zoo website for information about special events and activities before you visit. This will help ensure that your trip is full of fun and memorable experiences.
While the Oklahoma City Zoo offers a range of food options for visitors to enjoy during their visit, outside food is not permitted. This is to prevent any potential harm to the animals.
Additionally, feeding the animals is also strictly prohibited for their own safety and the safety of visitors. The animals at the zoo are on a carefully regulated diet to ensure their health, and any food outside of this regulation could seriously harm them. Proper nutrition is essential to the wellbeing of zoo animals and is a top priority for zoo staff.
Therefore, visitors are encouraged to enjoy the many food options available at the zoo or plan their visit around meal times. This ensures that all visitors can enjoy a safe and memorable experience while also preserving the welfare of the animals.
All in all, the Oklahoma City Zoo is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the city. With its wide variety of exhibits, animals, and special events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. If you’re planning a trip to OKC, OK be sure to add the zoo to your itinerary. Discover more attractions here