Baton Rouge Zoo
Discover diverse wildlife in naturalistic habitats at the Baton Rouge Zoo, a beloved family destination undergoing exciting renovations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Baton Rouge Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover diverse wildlife in naturalistic habitats at the Baton Rouge Zoo, a beloved family destination undergoing exciting renovations.
"Fantastic zoo!! Their enclosures for the animals are outstanding. Highly recommend a visit!"
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Bring your own water bottles! Fountains can be unreliable, and bottled water is pricey. :water_wave:
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear your most comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Giraffes
Savanna
Marvel at the graceful giraffes, now out and about, offering a truly captivating sight for all ages.
Playful Hippos
Hippo Exhibit
Watch Spencer and Ginger, the beloved hippos, as they splash and play, a guaranteed hit with kids.
Peacock Promenade
Throughout the Zoo
Enjoy the vibrant sights and sounds of peacocks and peahens strutting freely, adding a touch of wild beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Membership for Frequent Visitors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Bring your own water bottles! Fountains can be unreliable, and bottled water is pricey. :water_wave:
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear your most comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early or late to avoid the intense Louisiana sun. :sunwithface:
👨👩👧👦 Membership Value
Consider a membership if you plan multiple visits; it pays for itself quickly. :ticket:
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Bring your own water bottles! Fountains can be unreliable, and bottled water is pricey. :water_wave:
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear your most comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early or late to avoid the intense Louisiana sun. :sunwithface:
👨👩👧👦 Membership Value
Consider a membership if you plan multiple visits; it pays for itself quickly. :ticket:
🎁 Gift Shop Finds
The gift shop has souvenirs, but variety might be limited. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Baton Rouge Zoo to be a pleasant experience, with praise for its naturalistic animal enclosures and friendly staff. While some note a need for more animals and better upkeep of lawn areas, the zoo is considered a fun outing for children and offers good value, especially with a membership. The heat can be a factor, so planning accordingly is advised.
"It was very nice although more animals are needed for viewing. The food was typical of ball park concessions, but it was good. The gift shop was poor, mostly trinkets and junk. No variety of hats, shirts, and coffee cups with actual park animals. As far as the "natural habitat" for the parking lot is concerned, it is terrible... whoever designed it needs to reevaluate their decision. It looks unkempt and ugly."
joseph becker
"My 3 year old went wild with excitement running from animal to animal. It was a lot of fun. The animal variety wasn't extraordinary, but not every zoo can budget being the Audubon or San Diego zoo. Definitely a fun outing for children."
Rhett Causey
"Fantastic zoo!! Traveling from Texas and been to our fair share of zoos. This is amazing, their enclosures for the animals are outstanding. I love all the scenery and the staff was very kind! Highly recommend a visit!"
Diamond Kuhns
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Baton Rouge Zoo is located at 3601 Zoo Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70807. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is generally recommended for ease of access.
Yes, there is parking available at the Baton Rouge Zoo. However, the design of the parking lot has been noted as needing improvement by some visitors.
Yes, there is a train ride available at the Baton Rouge Zoo. It's a popular attraction, especially for families, and there is a fee to ride.
The zoo is easily accessible from major roadways in Baton Rouge. Using a GPS or mapping app is recommended for the most up-to-date traffic information and the quickest route to Zoo Drive.
The zoo is a well-known landmark in Baton Rouge. Follow signs for the zoo once you are in the general vicinity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Baton Rouge Zoo typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most current operating hours, as they can vary seasonally or for special events.
Admission prices can vary. It's recommended to check the official Baton Rouge Zoo website for the most up-to-date pricing for adults, children, and seniors. Consider a membership if you plan to visit multiple times.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, many attractions offer online ticket purchasing for convenience. It's advisable to check the official Baton Rouge Zoo website for online ticketing options to save time.
Keep an eye out for potential discounts or coupons, especially through local partnerships or special promotions. Memberships can also offer significant savings for frequent visitors.
You can typically purchase tickets at the entrance gate. For potential savings or to guarantee entry during busy periods, consider checking the official Baton Rouge Zoo website for online purchase options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Baton Rouge Zoo features a variety of animals, including giraffes, hippos, peacocks, and more. While the variety might not be as extensive as larger zoos, the enclosures are often praised for their naturalistic design.
Yes, the Baton Rouge Zoo is a great place for kids! They often get excited running from animal to animal, and there are attractions like the train ride that are particularly enjoyable for younger visitors.
There is a playground area at the zoo, though some sections may occasionally be roped off for maintenance.
The zoo aims to foster native plants, contributing to a unique landscape. However, some visitors have noted that lawn areas may need better upkeep at times.
The zoo is generally stroller-friendly, making it easy for families with young children to navigate.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options at the zoo are typically similar to ballpark concessions, offering standard fare. While some find it good, others suggest bringing your own snacks and drinks.
Yes, it's a good idea to bring your own water and snacks, as on-site options can be costly and water fountains may not always be functional.
There are dining facilities within the zoo, such as the Flamingo Cafe, but it's wise to check their operating hours and offerings in advance.
Food prices at the zoo can be a bit high, with bottled water costing around $4. Bringing your own is a more budget-friendly option.
The Flamingo Cafe is mentioned as a dining spot within the zoo, though its water fountains have been noted as sometimes out of order.
📸 📸 Photography
The naturalistic enclosures, especially for animals like giraffes and hippos, offer great photo opportunities. Don't miss capturing the vibrant peacocks as well.
Yes, photography is generally encouraged at the zoo. Be mindful of any signage regarding flash photography, which can disturb some animals.
While generally permitted, always be respectful of the animals and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography directly at animals if it seems to cause distress.
A camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing animal details from a distance. However, a smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for most visitors.
The zoo's focus on native plants and natural habitats can provide unique backdrops. Keep an eye out for unexpected wildlife, like the free-roaming peacocks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1To make the most of your family outing, plan your visit during the cooler parts of the day – early mornings or late afternoons are best to beat the heat. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as on-site options can be pricey. Consider a family membership if you anticipate multiple visits; it offers great value and can make frequent trips more affordable.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on enjoying the free attractions like observing the animals and exploring the grounds. The zoo's natural landscaping and free-roaming peacocks add to the experience without extra cost. Weekday visits might also offer a more relaxed experience without the weekend rush.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the vibrant colors of the peacocks and peahens as they strut around the zoo. While a good zoom lens is beneficial for animal photography, a smartphone can also capture memorable shots. Remember to be respectful and avoid flash photography that might disturb the animals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Baton Rouge Zoo's Evolution
This evolution is part of a larger effort to make the zoo a quintessential tourist attraction in the Greater Baton Rouge area. The focus on fostering native plants in its landscaping is a unique aspect, contributing to a more natural and educational environment for visitors.
While some older aspects might show wear, the ongoing improvements signal a commitment to modernization and providing better enclosures and experiences for both animals and guests. Keep an eye out for new developments as the zoo continues to grow and evolve.
Navigating the Zoo with Kids
+1When planning your visit with little ones, it's crucial to consider the Louisiana heat. Early morning visits or late afternoon excursions are highly recommended to ensure comfort and prevent heat exhaustion. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is also a smart move, as on-site options can be limited and costly.
While the zoo is generally stroller-friendly, be prepared for walking. The playground area offers a chance for kids to burn off energy, though it's good to check if any sections are temporarily closed. Overall, the Baton Rouge Zoo provides a delightful and engaging experience for families looking for a fun day out.
Membership Benefits and Value
Beyond the financial savings, memberships can provide additional perks and benefits, such as access to special events or discounts. This makes it an attractive proposition for locals and frequent visitors looking to maximize their zoo experience.
Becoming part of the 'Zoo Family' through a membership is a way to support the zoo's conservation efforts and ongoing improvements while enjoying unlimited access throughout the year. It's a win-win for both visitors and the institution.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit