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Alaska Zoo

4.3
·3k reviews·Anchorage, United States

Discover Alaska's unique wildlife at the Alaska Zoo, home to polar bears, moose, wolves, and rescued animals.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, active animals

CrowdLow
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Alaska Zoo - Image 1

Alaska Zoo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, active animals

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Alaska's unique wildlife at the Alaska Zoo, home to polar bears, moose, wolves, and rescued animals.

4.3
(3k reviews)

"A nice laid-back experience with everything you want to see and you can get pretty close."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Feeding Schedules

Arrive during keeper talks or feeding times for the most active animal viewing. :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The zoo is walkable, but you'll cover ground. Wear comfy shoes for exploring all exhibits. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Majestic Polar Bears

Majestic Polar Bears

Polar Bear Exhibit

Witness these magnificent Arctic giants in their habitat. A must-see for many visitors!

Native Alaskan Mammals

Native Alaskan Mammals

Various Exhibits

Encounter iconic Alaskan wildlife like brown bears, moose, wolves, and snow leopards.

Rescued Animal Stories

Rescued Animal Stories

Orphaned Moose & Wolverine Kits

Learn about animals like Skeeter the moose calf and the wolverine kits, rescued and cared for by the zoo.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Animal Sightings

Visit during feeding times or early morning/late afternoon for the best chance to see active animals. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, especially during summer family fun days. Check the zoo's schedule for keeper talks and feeding demonstrations to maximize your experience.

Embrace the Alaskan Wildlife Focus

The Alaska Zoo specializes in native Alaskan species like bears, moose, and wolves, offering a unique experience compared to typical zoos. While exotics are present, the stars are the local residents. Plan for about 1-2 hours to see all exhibits.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, active animals
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Animals often active before closing
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Family Fun Days
Why
Special events & activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This really irked me I was looking for the zoo keepers after seeing him bc whyyyy do yall have him out for people to see and he’s visibly ill 😢
@egyptishername
261.4K likes • 2.1M views

🎯 Check Feeding Schedules

Arrive during keeper talks or feeding times for the most active animal viewing. :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The zoo is walkable, but you'll cover ground. Wear comfy shoes for exploring all exhibits. :athletic_shoe:

You never know what these bears will be up to each day! That’s why you should plan a zoo visit 😁 Sunday, July 14th is a ConocoPhillips Summer Family Fun Day, 12-6pm. https://www.alaskazoo.org/summer-family-fun-days-live-music 🤩 Video by Facilities Crew Member Ron. #alaska #championsofthewild #anchorage #wildliferescue #weloveanimals #alaskalife #nonprofit #alaskazoo #thealaskalife #polarbears #fyp...
@alaskazoo
59.1K likes • 1.3M views
You never know what these bears will be up to each day! That’s why you should plan a zoo visit 😁 Sunday, July 14th is a @conocophillips Summer Family Fun Day, 12-6pm. See zoo links in bio. Video by Facilities Crew Member Ron. #alaska #championsofthewild #anchorage #wildliferescue #weloveanimals #alaskalife #nonprofit #alaskazoo #thealaskalife #polarbears
alaskazoo
21.4K likes • 423.2K views

⏳ Allow 1-2 Hours

You can see most animals in about an hour, but 2 hours allows for a relaxed pace. :stopwatch:

🐻 Focus on Alaskan Natives

Prioritize seeing the unique Alaskan animals; they are the zoo's specialty. :bear:

Meet our newest zoo resident, a male moose calf who arrived on May 19th with ADF&G biologists after his mother was hit by a car. We will be keeping him here at the Alaska Zoo (currently in the right outdoor infirmary pen with indoor access). We look forward to watching him grow up ❤️ . . He has a temporary nickname by staff (Orlando), but his official name will be chosen by a lucky bidder at our ...
alaskazoo
6.7K likes • 59.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Feeding Schedules

Arrive during keeper talks or feeding times for the most active animal viewing. :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The zoo is walkable, but you'll cover ground. Wear comfy shoes for exploring all exhibits. :athletic_shoe:

⏳ Allow 1-2 Hours

You can see most animals in about an hour, but 2 hours allows for a relaxed pace. :stopwatch:

🐻 Focus on Alaskan Natives

Prioritize seeing the unique Alaskan animals; they are the zoo's specialty. :bear:

📱 Check for Events

Look for special 'Family Fun Days' or keeper events for an enhanced visit. :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Alaska Zoo to be a charming and worthwhile stop, particularly for its focus on native Alaskan wildlife. While some exhibits could benefit from modernization, the accessible enclosures and friendly staff create a positive experience. It's a great option for families and those wanting to see unique local animals.

"16 bucks for veterans. The bears alone are worth the price. It's a small zoo - you can see everything in an hour if you're quick. But they've got everything you want to see and you can get pretty close. I was 3 feet from the snow leopard and 6 feet from the black bear. Overall a nice laid-back experience."

Seth

"A small zoo , easy to walk around & every exhibit set up to easily view each animal. I hope to see the exhibits renovated into larger living spaces for the animals similar to The Tiger & wolves enclosure . Overall we enjoyed our time ."

Erin D

"For Alaska, The Alaska Zoo is a good stop to go if you are visiting or if you have kids here in Alaska. A fun time indeed seeing the animals and if you plan right see many attractions that they have going on. We got to watch zookeepers feed some animals just because we were there at the right time! We took our time with older kids and finished in about 2 hours to see all the exhibits.
Hope you get to see the Polar Bears we didn’t 😉
The brown bears exhibit makes up for that and so much more. Posted as much as allowed!
I mentioned zookeepers, any staff for that matter is kind and great here. All a big plus!!"

Kenny Menendez

What People Like

Unique Alaskan animals
Close animal viewing
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Exhibit modernization needed
Can be crowded on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Alaska Zoo is located south of downtown Anchorage. You can drive, take a taxi or rideshare service, or use public transportation. The People Mover bus system has routes that stop near the zoo. Check their schedule for the most convenient options. Reddit

Yes, the Alaska Zoo offers ample parking for visitors. It's generally easy to find a spot, especially on weekdays. TikTok

Depending on your starting point in Anchorage, walking might be possible but is a significant distance. It's more practical to use transportation options. Reddit

For families, driving or using a rideshare service offers the most flexibility. Public transport is an option but may require more planning with young children. Reddit

Yes, the People Mover bus system serves the area around the Alaska Zoo. Consult their route map and schedule for specific lines and stops. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary, but general admission is reasonably priced. They often offer discounts for seniors, military, and veterans. Check their official website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season or for special events, to save time. TikTok

The zoo's hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Alaska Zoo website for their current operating hours before your visit. TikTok

Yes, the zoo typically offers discounts for veterans, seniors, and children. Look out for special promotions or membership options. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking timed entry online can help manage crowds and ensure entry, especially on busy days. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The polar bears are a major draw, along with native Alaskan species like brown bears, moose, wolves, and snow leopards. Don't miss the rescued animals like Skeeter the moose calf. InstagramReddit

Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours exploring the zoo. You can see everything quickly in an hour, or take your time and enjoy the exhibits. Reddit

While there aren't extensive play structures, the zoo is designed to be engaging for children with plenty of animal viewing opportunities. Special 'Family Fun Days' often include activities. TikTok

Many exhibits allow for close viewing, with some visitors reporting being just a few feet from animals like snow leopards and black bears. Reddit

If you notice an animal is stressed, like the wolves pacing, avoid encouraging them by banging on enclosures or making loud noises. Respect their space. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the zoo typically has a cafe or snack bar where you can purchase food and drinks. Options may include light snacks, meals, and beverages. Reddit

Generally, outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted. It's a good idea to check the zoo's specific policy on their website. Reddit

The zoo may have designated picnic areas, offering a pleasant spot to enjoy your own packed lunch amidst the natural surroundings. Reddit

Expect typical zoo fare like hot dogs, sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. Options might be limited, so bringing your own food is a good backup. Reddit

Zoo food prices can be on the higher side, as is common at such attractions. Packing your own snacks can help save money. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The polar bear and brown bear exhibits offer dramatic photo opportunities. Also, try to capture the unique Alaskan wildlife like moose and wolves. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, avoid using flash photography, especially near sensitive animals, as it can disturb them. Reddit

A telephoto lens is useful for capturing animals from a distance, while a wider lens can be good for capturing the habitat and overall scene. Instagram

Tripods might be restricted in certain areas to avoid congestion. Always be mindful of other visitors and the animals' well-being. Reddit

Use a zoom lens and try to shoot during times when animals are most active. Patience is key! Look for opportunities during feeding times. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Alaska Zoo is a fantastic destination for families. Its manageable size means little legs won't get too tired, and the focus on Alaskan native animals provides a unique educational experience. Kids will be thrilled to see polar bears, moose, and wolves up close. Reddit Look out for special 'Family Fun Days' which often include extra activities and entertainment. TikTok

Consider visiting during feeding times or keeper talks to keep children engaged and ensure they see the animals at their most active. Reddit Bringing snacks and drinks is a good idea, though there are food options available. The zoo's layout is generally stroller-friendly, making it easy to navigate with younger children. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Alaska Zoo offers good value for its admission price, especially considering the unique Alaskan wildlife you'll encounter. Reddit It's a more affordable option compared to some other Anchorage attractions. To save further, pack your own lunch and snacks rather than relying solely on the zoo's cafe. Reddit

Visiting on a weekday morning can help you avoid peak crowds and potentially enjoy a more relaxed experience. Reddit The zoo is relatively compact, so you can see most of the animals in a couple of hours, making it an efficient use of your time and budget. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Alaska Zoo presents opportunities to capture unique wildlife. The polar bear and brown bear exhibits are particularly photogenic, offering dramatic shots. Instagram Don't forget to focus on the native Alaskan species like moose and wolves, which are harder to photograph in the wild. Instagram

Utilize a telephoto lens to get close-ups of animals from a distance. Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon can provide softer lighting and more active animals. Reddit Be mindful of enclosure barriers and avoid using flash photography, as it can disturb the animals and result in poor image quality. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of the Alaska Zoo: Native Wildlife

The Alaska Zoo truly shines in its dedication to showcasing native Alaskan species. This isn't just another zoo with exotic animals; it's a sanctuary and educational hub for creatures that call Alaska home. Visitors consistently rave about the chance to see animals like brown bears, moose, wolves, and the elusive snow leopard up close. These exhibits are designed to give a sense of the animal's natural habitat, making the experience more immersive. Reddit

Many of the animals at the zoo are there due to rescue situations. Stories like that of Skeeter, the moose calf found alone on a beach, or the wolverine kits born to a rescued mother, highlight the zoo's crucial role in wildlife conservation. Instagram+1 These narratives add a layer of emotional connection for visitors, emphasizing the importance of protecting Alaska's wild inhabitants. The zoo provides a unique opportunity to learn about these animals and the challenges they face in the wild. Reddit

While the zoo does house some non-native species like tigers and camels, the true stars are the Alaskan residents. Planning your visit around feeding times or keeper talks can significantly enhance your experience, as animals are often more active and visible then. Reddit The zoo's layout allows for relatively close viewing, making it a rewarding experience for all ages. Reddit

Navigating the Alaska Zoo: Tips from Visitors

When planning your visit to the Alaska Zoo, remember that it's a compact zoo, meaning you can typically see all the exhibits within an hour or two. Reddit This makes it a perfect outing for families with young children or for those on a tighter schedule. However, don't let the size fool you; the zoo is packed with fascinating animals and informative signage. Reddit

Many visitors recommend checking the zoo's schedule for keeper talks and feeding demonstrations. These events not only provide entertainment but also offer valuable insights into the animals' behavior and care. Reddit Arriving early on a weekday is often suggested to avoid crowds and see the animals when they are most active. Reddit Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll be on your feet exploring the grounds. Reddit

While the zoo is well-maintained, some reviews mention a desire for exhibit renovations to create larger living spaces, similar to more modern zoo designs. Reddit Despite this, the overall sentiment is positive, with many appreciating the accessible enclosures that allow for close encounters with the animals. Reddit The staff are consistently praised for their kindness and helpfulness, adding to the positive visitor experience. Reddit

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