Reid Park Zoo Tucson
A charming and engaging zoo in Tucson, Arizona, featuring diverse animals, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly attractions.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Reid Park Zoo Tucson
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming and engaging zoo in Tucson, Arizona, featuring diverse animals, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly attractions.
"We had an absolute blast at the Reid Park Zoo! The zoo is awesome, and we already can't wait to go back again!"
🎯 Arrive Early or Late
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving at opening or visiting during cooler evening events. Parking can fill up!
🦒 Feed the Giraffes!
A must-do experience! Kids (and adults!) love getting up close to feed these majestic animals.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giraffe Feeding Station
Giraffe Exhibit
Get up close and personal with these gentle giants. A truly memorable experience for all ages!

World of Play
Children's Play Area
An immersive, nature-themed play zone where kids can explore Antarctic ice caves to rainforests.

Asian Exhibit
Asian Animals Section
Discover a variety of animals, including elephants and tigers, in thoughtfully designed habitats.

Wild Wonders Art Installation
Various Locations
Experience vibrant, larger-than-life sculptures celebrating wildlife in the Huichol style.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Family Fun & Interactive Experiences
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early or Late
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving at opening or visiting during cooler evening events. Parking can fill up!
🦒 Feed the Giraffes!
A must-do experience! Kids (and adults!) love getting up close to feed these majestic animals.
👟 Stroller Friendly Paths
The zoo is well-maintained and easy to navigate with strollers, making it great for families with little ones.
🎟️ Check for Discounts
Look out for special event days like 'Dollar Zoo Day' or inquire about memberships for cost savings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early or Late
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving at opening or visiting during cooler evening events. Parking can fill up!
🦒 Feed the Giraffes!
A must-do experience! Kids (and adults!) love getting up close to feed these majestic animals.
👟 Stroller Friendly Paths
The zoo is well-maintained and easy to navigate with strollers, making it great for families with little ones.
🎟️ Check for Discounts
Look out for special event days like 'Dollar Zoo Day' or inquire about memberships for cost savings.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera or phone to snap photos of active animals and your family's adventures.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Tucson can get hot! Bring plenty of water or plan to purchase drinks at various stands.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Reid Park Zoo for its well-maintained and spacious animal habitats, active animals, and engaging interactive experiences like giraffe feeding. The 'World of Play' area is a hit with families, and the zoo's manageable size and cleanliness are frequently highlighted. While some mention it's not the largest zoo, its charm and value make it a highly recommended destination for a fun day out.
"We went to the zoo for the first time yesterday, during the cooler 6-8 pm hours. I was very impressed with the habitats, they were spacious and provide lots of shade and places to get away from us when the animals wish to. Being from the East Coast originally we enjoyed seeing animals we had not seen in person at other zoos. The layout provided lots of walking space and provided a pleasant experience. There was lots for kids to do and a good musician performing. We will definitely be back to see the new Asian exhibit."
Jennifer Higdon
"We had an absolute blast at the Reid Park Zoo! Recently came here for the first time and was honestly blown away. The zoo is awesome, and we already can't wait to go back again!
Once you're inside, there is so much to do and see. The zoo itself is a really great size. The walking paths give you great views of all the animals. The exhibits are really nice, well kept, and pretty spacious.
We really enjoyed all the different animals that are here. Most of them were very active when we were there, which made the experience even better! There are multiple walk-in exhibits, a huge playground area for kids, zoo keeper interactive experiences, and more. Keep an eye out for a peacock, or a bunch, roaming around, too!
There is a gift shop, restaurant, and plenty of snack stands throughout the zoo as well. The whole zoo is easily accessible and very clean as well. We can't wait to come back and spend another great day at Reid Park Zoo!"
T Stoey
"Coming on a weekday right around noon. When the kids were headed out was perfect timing. You were able to enjoy the exhibits, still see lots of animals, without crazy crowds. I was super impressed with the bird exhibits and being able to sit among the exotic birds. The well, habitats are well done and you really feel pretty darn close to the animals. We come from a big city with a much bigger zoo, but this zoo is pretty awesome. Will be back for the night time program!"
Michelle Mindala
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Reid Park Zoo is located at 3400 E Zoo Ct, Tucson, AZ 85716. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the park.
There is parking available at the zoo, but it can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. Arriving early or considering public transport is recommended.
Yes, the zoo features stroller-friendly paths, making it convenient for families with young children.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option for reaching Reid Park Zoo. Drop-off points are typically near the main entrance.
The zoo is designed with accessibility in mind, offering paved paths that are generally suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but general admission is typically around $10-$15 for adults and less for children. It's best to check the official Reid Park Zoo website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Reid Park Zoo hours typically vary by season. It's recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit.
Yes, discounts may be available for military personnel, children, and seniors. Special event days, like 'Dollar Zoo Day,' also offer reduced admission.
Purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially for special events, to save time and guarantee entry. Visit the official Reid Park Zoo website for online ticket sales.
Yes, Reid Park Zoo offers various membership options that can provide unlimited access for a year and other benefits, which can be very cost-effective for frequent visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors often rave about the elephants, giraffes (especially during feeding times), tigers, and the capybaras. The zoo also features a variety of birds and reptiles.
Absolutely! The 'World of Play' is a major attraction, offering an interactive nature-themed play zone. Giraffe feeding and other keeper talks also engage younger visitors.
This is a new, immersive, nature-themed play area designed for children of all ages and abilities, featuring sensory exhibits, climbing structures, and slides.
Yes, you can feed the giraffes at a designated station for an additional fee. This is a very popular and interactive experience.
Reid Park Zoo hosts various events throughout the year, including 'Boo at the Zoo' for Halloween and 'ZooLights' during the holiday season. Check their website for event schedules.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The zoo offers a gift shop, a restaurant, and several snack stands throughout the park, providing a range of options for visitors.
While specific policies can change, it's generally advisable to check the zoo's official guidelines regarding outside food and beverages. Some visitors mention bringing snacks.
Information on specific dietary options can be limited. It's best to inquire directly with the food vendors at the zoo or pack your own suitable meals if you have specific dietary needs.
Yes, Reid Park Zoo has a restaurant and various snack stands, some of which may offer seating areas for guests to enjoy their food.
Reid Park Zoo is a popular venue for birthday parties and other private events. Contact their events department for booking information and packages.
📸 📸 Photography
The giraffe exhibit, elephant habitats, and the 'World of Play' area offer great photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for peacocks roaming freely!
Typically, drones are not permitted within zoo grounds due to safety regulations and the potential disturbance to animals. Always check the zoo's official policy.
Visitors often capture photos of the animals, family interactions, and the zoo's unique art installations like 'Wild Wonders.'
Many exhibits are designed to provide good viewing angles. Animals can be active, so patience and a good zoom lens can be helpful for capturing clear shots.
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds and the peak heat. Pack plenty of snacks and water, or utilize the on-site food options. The zoo's manageable size makes it less overwhelming for younger children compared to larger institutions.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there are food vendors, bringing your own water bottles and some snacks can help reduce on-site spending. Weekday visits generally mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience without the premium weekend pricing.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for softer lighting and potentially more active animals. Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography to avoid disturbing the animals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Animal Habitats
Key areas include the Asian exhibit, featuring elephants and tigers, and the African savanna section. The zoo also boasts impressive bird exhibits, where visitors can sometimes walk among exotic species. For those interested in smaller creatures, the dart frog exhibit has recently undergone renovations, showcasing vibrant displays.
Many visitors highlight the active nature of the animals during their visits, attributing this to the well-maintained and enriching environments. The zoo also emphasizes its commitment to conservation and educating the public about the animals in its care, with animal care specialists often available to share insights.
Family Fun and Play Zones
Beyond the dedicated play area, the zoo offers interactive experiences such as giraffe feeding, which is a consistent crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. The presence of playful baby elephants and other young animals also adds to the excitement for younger visitors.
The zoo's layout is also conducive to family outings, with wide paths that are stroller-friendly, making it easy to navigate with little ones. Many reviewers mention their children having an absolute blast and wanting to return, highlighting the zoo's success in creating a fun and engaging experience for the whole family.
Special Events and Seasonal Attractions
During the holiday season, 'ZooLights' transforms the zoo into a dazzling winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy festive decorations, live music, hot chocolate, and interactive holiday activities, creating a magical atmosphere for all ages.
These events often draw larger crowds but provide a distinct and memorable way to experience the zoo. It's advisable to check the zoo's official website for specific dates, times, and ticket information for these popular seasonal attractions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit