Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
A top-rated zoo with immersive habitats, exciting rides, and hands-on animal encounters for the whole family.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A top-rated zoo with immersive habitats, exciting rides, and hands-on animal encounters for the whole family.
"This zoo was so amazing. It is gorgeous with super immersive enclosures and tons of green space."
🎯 Arrive Early for Giraffes
Head to the African area first for giraffe feeding before they get full!
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save a little money and time by purchasing admission tickets in advance online.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
African Journey
Savannah area
Vast open spaces with giraffes, zebras, and ostriches. A truly immersive experience!
Rainforest Dome
Indoor exhibit
Step into a lush, humid world filled with exotic plants and fascinating creatures.
Bamboo Forest Playground
Near the orangutan exhibit
An exciting, multi-level playground that kids (and adults!) will love.
Giraffe Feeding
African Journey
Get up close and personal with these gentle giants – a memorable encounter!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Maximize Your Day
Plan for Rides & Special Experiences
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Giraffes
Head to the African area first for giraffe feeding before they get full!
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save a little money and time by purchasing admission tickets in advance online.
🎢 Unlimited Ride Wristband
Worth it if you plan on enjoying the Sky Safari, train, and log ride.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so prioritize comfort for a full day of exploring.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Giraffes
Head to the African area first for giraffe feeding before they get full!
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save a little money and time by purchasing admission tickets in advance online.
🎢 Unlimited Ride Wristband
Worth it if you plan on enjoying the Sky Safari, train, and log ride.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so prioritize comfort for a full day of exploring.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water bottles or purchase drinks to stay refreshed, especially on warm days.
🎃 Fall Fun in October
Experience Wild Zoo Halloween with special activities and festive decorations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo for its beautiful, immersive enclosures and abundant green spaces. The staff are frequently highlighted for their kindness and dedication. While most exhibits are well-loved, a few reviewers noted potential concerns about animal enrichment in specific indoor habitats. Overall, it's considered an excellent, educational, and fun experience for all ages.
"Honestly this zoo was so amazing. It is gorgeous with super immersive enclosures and tons of green space. The staff were all extremely kind and informative. I could tell they genuinely cared about their work and the zoo itself. The animals all seemed to be very happy and we got to see so many goofy and wonderful creatures. My partner and I had a blast here and within 25 mins we were already talking about how great it was and said we would absolutely be back. There are lots of places to rest as well. I have back problems and need to sit every once in awhile and I never had problems finding a place to rest. With breaks and taking our time the whole zoo took us around 3 hours to explore. It was excellent and I can't wait to go back someday. ☺️"
Shelby Carroll
"Best Zoo, Best Caretakers and Best Family W
environment! So worth you visit - we buy the family pass and take my granddaughters often for the best time ever. Today we rode the log boats, the train and the carousel. We were there for 3 hours today and it was crazy how few people where there - it was like we had the entire zoo to ourselves at times. (Kids are back in school, it's a Wednesday...) So it wasn't nearly as busy as usual on weekends. We had an extra special time we we were not rushed feeling like others needed to see the animals etc..."
Ken Button
"A great zoo with lots to do along with seeing animals! Ropes course, train ride, river ride, and more which kids loved them all. First time I saw a ropes course with a toddler sized level which my 3.5 year old loved. It's also nice they don't charge for the adult to go with the smaller children that require supervision. We were there 11:30a-5p and still didn't get to see and do it all so definitely an all day adventure. As others have noted, go to the African area first to feed the giraffes before they get full for the day. We did not follow that advice and didn't get there until the end of the day and they weren't interested in coming over. Still beautiful to look at 😊 Buying admission tickets online in advance gets a small discount and getting the all day unlimited ride wristband is worth it if planning to do most or all of the rides."
Maiya Budu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo is located at 3411 Sherman Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46808. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there is a large parking lot available for visitors. While generally sufficient, it can fill up on busy days, so arriving early is advised.
Absolutely! Using a GPS or navigation app with the address '3411 Sherman Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46808' will guide you directly to the zoo entrance.
From I-69, take exit 102 for IN-930 W/Coliseum Blvd. Continue on Coliseum Blvd and turn right onto Sherman Blvd. The zoo will be on your left. Always check local traffic conditions before you leave.
Yes, Fort Wayne offers a variety of hotels and accommodations close to the zoo, catering to different budgets and preferences. Many are located just a short drive away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary by age. It's recommended to check the official Fort Wayne Children's Zoo website for the most current pricing. Purchasing tickets online in advance can sometimes offer a small discount.
Yes, you can purchase admission tickets at the zoo's entrance. However, buying online beforehand can save time and potentially money.
The zoo may offer discounts for seniors, military personnel, or group rates. Check their website or inquire at the ticket booth for any available promotions.
Operating hours vary seasonally. The zoo typically opens in late April and closes in late October. It's best to check the official website for specific daily hours during your planned visit.
Yes, most of the popular rides like the Sky Safari, ZO&O Railroad, and Crocodile Creek Adventure Log have an additional fee. An unlimited ride wristband is available for purchase if you plan to go on multiple rides.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors rave about the African Journey, the immersive Rainforest Dome, and the interactive Stingray Bay. Don't miss the chance to feed the giraffes!
Absolutely! The zoo features a toddler-sized ropes course, the Bamboo Forest playground, and various animal encounters designed for younger visitors.
Yes, the zoo offers several feeding experiences, including giraffes and stingrays. These often have an additional cost and specific operating times, so check the schedule upon arrival.
The zoo offers a Sky Safari lift, a ZO&O Railroad train ride around the lake, and the Crocodile Creek Adventure Log ride, providing fun ways to see the grounds.
The zoo is generally well-maintained with paved paths and some gentle hills, making it manageable for those with walking difficulties. Many reviewers found ample places to rest.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The zoo offers various concessions, including snacks, meals, and treats. You can find options like hot dogs, pizza, ice cream, and more throughout the park.
Generally, outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted. However, it's always a good idea to check the zoo's specific policy on their website before your visit.
While specific options can vary, most zoos offer some variety. It's best to inquire at the food stands or check the zoo's website for current menu details.
There are several dining locations scattered throughout the zoo. Consider grabbing a bite near the African Journey or the main entrance for convenient access.
While there might not be dedicated picnic areas, you can often find benches or grassy spots to enjoy your own packed meal. Check with guest services for designated areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The African Journey offers stunning backdrops with its open plains. The Rainforest Dome provides unique lighting, and the Sky Safari offers panoramic views.
Yes, photography is encouraged! Just be mindful of any posted restrictions and avoid using flash, which can disturb the animals.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check the zoo's policy.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best lighting and can be when animals are most active.
A versatile zoom lens is ideal for capturing animals at various distances. A wide-angle lens can be great for landscapes and exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Arriving early is key to avoiding meltdowns and maximizing your time. The zoo's layout is manageable, and there are plenty of places to rest. The giraffe feeding is a memorable experience for kids, but be sure to go early as they can get full.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help save money. Focus on enjoying the incredible animal exhibits, which are included with admission, as they are the main attraction and offer hours of entertainment.
couples
Consider taking a ride on the Sky Safari for scenic views or enjoying a picnic lunch. The zoo's immersive environments and the opportunity to interact with animals, like feeding the giraffes, can create unique and memorable moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Zoo's Diverse Habitats
Another captivating area is the Rainforest Dome, an indoor tropical environment that simulates a humid rainforest ecosystem. Here, you can encounter a variety of exotic animals and lush vegetation, offering a unique sensory experience. The zoo also boasts a Monkey Island exhibit, showcasing primates in a dynamic setting, and Stingray Bay, where interactive encounters are a major draw.
These thoughtfully designed habitats aim to educate and engage visitors, offering a glimpse into the lives of animals from diverse climates. The zoo's commitment to creating realistic environments contributes significantly to its appeal and educational value.
Rides and Entertainment for All Ages
The Sky Safari is another popular attraction, a chairlift that glides above the zoo, offering panoramic views of the park and surrounding areas. This provides a unique vantage point for photography and a leisurely way to survey the zoo.
In addition to rides, the zoo often hosts special events, such as Wild Zoo Halloween, which transforms the park into a festive fall destination with themed activities. These events add an extra layer of entertainment and encourage repeat visits throughout the season.
Community Insights on Animal Welfare and Exhibits
Similarly, concerns were raised about the serval enclosure, with one animal observed pacing and appearing stressed. The reviewer questioned if the enclosure was adequately sized for the species and if there were unseen areas of the exhibit. Despite these specific concerns, the overall positive impression of the other well-executed exhibits led to a high rating.
It's worth noting that the zoo's Executive Director has been featured in content highlighting the zoo's unique appeal, suggesting a proactive approach to engaging with the community and showcasing the animals.
The zoo also actively shares updates, such as the recent birth of a male orangutan, demonstrating ongoing efforts in animal conservation and breeding programs. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit