Phoenix Zoo
A 125-acre oasis showcasing diverse wildlife, with family-friendly splash pads and enchanting holiday light displays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are active, beat the heat
Phoenix Zoo
Best Time
Animals are active, beat the heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 125-acre oasis showcasing diverse wildlife, with family-friendly splash pads and enchanting holiday light displays.
"Wonderful zoo! Lots of shade, plenty of water, and a great variety of animals."
🎯 Arrive at Opening
Beat the heat & see active animals! Zoo opens at 7 AM in summer. :sunrise:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking miles! The zoo is 125 acres. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
African Trail
Africa
Encounter majestic giraffes, zebras, and rhinos in expansive, naturalistic habitats.
Orangutan Habitat
Orangutan Forest
Watch these intelligent primates swing and play in their impressive, treetop-inspired enclosure.
Splash Pads
Yakulla Caverns & Leapin' Lagoon
A perfect way to cool off! These interactive water play areas are a hit with kids on hot days.
ZooLights
Various locations
Experience the magic of thousands of twinkling lights during this popular holiday event.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Arizona Heat
Maximize Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive at Opening
Beat the heat & see active animals! Zoo opens at 7 AM in summer.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking miles! The zoo is 125 acres. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated & Cool
Bring water, use misters, and visit splash pads.
🎟️ Look for Ticket Deals
Check Groupon or Pogo Pass for discounts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive at Opening
Beat the heat & see active animals! Zoo opens at 7 AM in summer.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking miles! The zoo is 125 acres. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated & Cool
Bring water, use misters, and visit splash pads.
🎟️ Look for Ticket Deals
Check Groupon or Pogo Pass for discounts.
👨👩👧👦 Kids Love Splash Pads
Yakulla Caverns & Leapin' Lagoon are perfect for cooling off.
💡 Membership Value
Great for frequent visitors; consider if you'll visit multiple times. :key:
🌙 Date Night Option
Consider adults-only events or a unique evening visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Phoenix Zoo for its well-maintained grounds, variety of animals, and family-friendly amenities like splash pads and shaded areas. Many highlight the zoo's efforts to accommodate the Arizona heat and recommend arriving early. While some find the adult admission price a bit high, most agree it's a worthwhile experience for the value and enjoyment it provides.
"Wonderful zoo! Not too large so that you can walk the whole zoo of you want to get the full view of you don't spend too much time at one exhibit. Lots of shade along the way, plenty of water fountains available. They have planned for the comfort of the visitors. My photos certainly don't show the extent and great variety of the place...monkeys, orangutan, dromedaries, beautiful birds, nice splash pad for kids, individual displays of the local desert inhabitants, so much more. Nice gift shop, plenty of parking."
Eugene R. Ehmann
"Love this zoo! It’s amazing how well they accommodate families in the summer heat with plenty of seating, water dispensers, and a fun splash area for kids. They have a great selection of animals, and the facility is always clean and organized. We enjoy every visit! I usually get the membership plan, which is perfect for multiple visits throughout the year. And during Christmas, their light show is absolutely amazing!"
Sarah Rahra
"What a massive, absolutely beautiful zoo. There’s an impressive variety of animals to look at and stuff to read, so plan to spend a good few hours here. The pathways are long but easy to follow, make sure to wear some good walking shoes because you will be doing a lot of it— great exercise! There are plenty of shaded areas to sit and water refill stations so that you can stay cool and comfortable when it’s hot out. Lots of spots to get food too if you need it. The zoo was clean and well maintained, the staff were friendly, and all the exhibits were a fun learning experience."
Nicole Hancock
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Phoenix Zoo is located at 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options include bus routes that stop near the zoo.
Yes, the Phoenix Zoo offers plenty of parking for visitors. It's generally free and readily available, especially if you arrive earlier in the day.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to reach the Phoenix Zoo. There are designated drop-off and pick-up points.
The zoo is about 2.5 miles of walking paths. Consider a map or the zoo's app to plan your route. Many visitors enjoy the narrated tram ride for an overview.
Yes, the Phoenix Zoo is very accessible. Pathways are paved and generally wide, making it easy to navigate with strollers and wheelchairs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but generally, adult tickets are around $25-$30, and children's tickets are less. Children 2 and under are often free. It's best to check the official Phoenix Zoo website for current pricing.
Yes, purchasing Phoenix Zoo tickets online is highly recommended. It often saves time at the entrance and sometimes offers slight discounts.
Yes, look for discounts on sites like Groupon or consider a Pogo Pass for multiple attractions. The zoo also offers various membership options which can be cost-effective for frequent visitors.
Phoenix Zoo hours vary seasonally. In summer, they often open as early as 7 AM to beat the heat. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking timed entry tickets online is often a good idea, especially during peak seasons or for special events like ZooLights, to guarantee entry and avoid queues.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors rave about the African Trail with giraffes and rhinos, the orangutan habitat, and the diverse collection of desert animals. Don't miss the chance to see the playful primates!
Absolutely! The zoo features two fantastic splash pads, Yakulla Caverns and Leapin' Lagoon, perfect for cooling off. There's also a dedicated children's area and a petting zoo.
Yes, but plan accordingly! Arrive early (7 AM), stay hydrated, utilize shaded areas and misters, and take advantage of the splash pads. Animals are most active in the cooler morning hours.
ZooLights is a spectacular holiday event where the zoo is transformed with millions of twinkling lights and festive displays. It's a popular evening attraction.
Yes, you can bring your own coolers with food and non-alcoholic beverages. There are also picnic tables available throughout the zoo.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The zoo offers several dining locations, including cafes and snack stands, serving a variety of options. You can also bring your own food and utilize picnic areas.
While specific menus can change, most zoo eateries offer some lighter fare or salads that can accommodate vegetarian preferences. It's always a good idea to check with the food vendor directly.
Yes, picnicking is encouraged! There are designated picnic areas with tables, and you're welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy.
Yes, some of the zoo's dining facilities, like the main restaurant, offer air-conditioned seating, providing a welcome respite from the heat.
Expect typical theme park or zoo pricing. Snacks and drinks might range from $3-$7, while meals can be $10-$20. Bringing your own food can help save money.
📸 📸 Photography
The African Trail offers stunning backdrops with giraffes and zebras. The orangutan habitat provides dynamic shots. Early morning light is ideal for capturing animals in natural poses.
Yes, professional camera equipment is generally allowed. However, tripods might be restricted in certain areas or during busy events. Check the zoo's specific photography policy if you have extensive gear.
While general photography is encouraged, flash photography is often prohibited as it can disturb the animals. Always be mindful of signage and staff instructions.
The 'golden hours' – early morning shortly after opening and late afternoon before closing – offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing animals when they are most active.
During ZooLights, the illuminated displays offer incredible nighttime photography opportunities. The splash pads also provide fun, candid shots of children enjoying themselves.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan to spend time here, and bring a change of clothes! The zoo is also very stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it easy to navigate with little ones. Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks in a cooler to keep costs down and ensure everyone stays fueled.
The petting zoo and children's area offer more interactive fun. For frequent visitors, a zoo membership can offer great value and access to special events. 💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Bringing your own food and drinks in a cooler is also a significant cost-saver, as zoo concessions can add up quickly. Arriving early can help you maximize your visit without needing to purchase extra activities or food throughout the day. 💑 Couples & Date Nights
Even a daytime visit can be romantic, exploring the diverse animal exhibits and enjoying the natural beauty of the zoo. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Arizona Heat
This strategy not only helps you avoid the most intense sun but also allows you to see animals when they are most active and visible. Many animals tend to retreat to cooler, shaded areas or indoor exhibits once the temperature rises significantly. To combat the heat, the zoo provides several amenities. You'll find numerous shaded pathways, water fountains for refilling bottles, and even misters in some areas.
Remember to bring a change of clothes for the little ones if they plan to fully embrace the water play. Beyond the physical comfort, staying hydrated is paramount. Bring your own water bottles, as they can be refilled. You're also permitted to bring your own coolers with food and non-alcoholic beverages, which can be a great way to save money and ensure you have snacks readily available.
Maximizing Your Visit & Value
For those who anticipate visiting more than once, a Phoenix Zoo membership can be a worthwhile investment.
+1When planning your visit, consider the time of year. While summer offers early morning access, the holiday season brings the enchanting ZooLights event, transforming the zoo into a magical wonderland with millions of lights.
This is a popular, albeit crowded, evening experience that offers a different perspective on the zoo. Family Fun and Special Events
The zoo also features a dedicated children's area and a petting zoo, providing interactive experiences for younger visitors. Beyond the daily attractions, the zoo hosts special events throughout the year. ZooLights is perhaps their most famous, turning the park into a dazzling display of holiday lights.
There are also occasional adults-only events, like 'Roars & Pours,' which offer a unique evening experience with drinks and a chance to see the zoo in a different light. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit