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Sedgwick County Zoo

4.7
·10k reviews·Wichita, United States

Explore diverse animal habitats from around the globe, featuring adorable baby elephants and chimpanzees, plus enchanting Wild Lights displays.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings (10 AM - 11 AM)

Beat the heat & see active animals

CrowdMedium
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Tigers

Sedgwick County Zoo

Best Time

Mornings (10 AM - 11 AM)

Beat the heat & see active animals

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore diverse animal habitats from around the globe, featuring adorable baby elephants and chimpanzees, plus enchanting Wild Lights displays.

4.7
(10k reviews)

"A top-notch zoo and a fantastic value, offering an amazing day out with world-class habitats."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save money and time by purchasing your Sedgwick County Zoo tickets online in advance .

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo is large; expect a lot of walking to see all the animals .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baby Elephants

Baby Elephants

African Elephant Exhibit

Witness the adorable antics of multiple baby elephants, including Bomani and Kijani, who have captured hearts .

Chimpanzee Family

Chimpanzee Family

Chimpanzee Exhibit

See young chimpanzees like Kyansa and Alizeti learning to crawl and play, showcasing their developing social skills .

Wild Lights

Wild Lights

Throughout the Zoo

Experience the zoo transformed into a magical wonderland with Asian-inspired lantern sculptures during this popular holiday event .

World-Class Habitats

World-Class Habitats

Africa, South America, Australia

Explore meticulously designed exhibits that offer immersive experiences for both animals and visitors .

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets Online & Arrive Early

Save money by booking Sedgwick County Zoo tickets online, often with a discount compared to gate prices.Reddit Arrive between 10-11 AM to maximize your visit and beat the heat, as the zoo is expansive and animals can be less active later in the day.Reddit

Check for Closures & Animal Activity

Some exhibits, like the Penguin Cove, may be closed for maintenance.Reddit Animals might nap during sunny days, so an earlier visit increases chances of seeing them active.Reddit Check the zoo's website for any unexpected closures before your trip.

Best Times

When
Mornings (10 AM - 11 AM)
Why
Beat the heat & see active animals
Crowd
Medium
When
Wed-Sun Evenings (Oct-Dec)
Why
Magical Wild Lights experience
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Got sick and finally feeling slight relief. Walked around the zoo for 2 hours but it got a bit warm so we went home. But not without seeing the lions, tigers, and bears! #sahm #zoo #wichitakansas
@thriftiechickie
234.2K likes • 3.3M views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save money and time by purchasing your Sedgwick County Zoo tickets online in advance.Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo is large; expect a lot of walking to see all the animals.Reddit

Wild Lights begins TONIGHT! ✨️🏮 Will you be coming this year? #wildlights #enchanted #sedgwickcountyzoo #event #thingstodo #fypシ
@sedgwickcountyzoo
82K likes • 600.2K views
📍 Sedgwick County Zoo, Wichita, KS . . #wichita #kansas #fulltimetravel #travelcouple #fulltimerv #zoo #rvlife #midwest
the_path_we_take
14 likes • 312 views

☀️ Beat the Heat

Arrive early, especially on sunny days, to see animals when they're most active and avoid the midday heat.Reddit

📱 Check Zoo Website

Verify exhibit closures or special event schedules before your visit to avoid disappointment.Reddit

When Mahale, a chimpanzee at the Sedgwick County Zoo, gave birth via emergency C-section, she was separated from her newborn, Kucheza, who needed intensive care due to breathing complications. For nearly two days, Mahale waited, unaware if her baby had survived. In a moment that captured hearts around the world, their emotional reunion was filmed: Mahale spotted Kucheza moving slightly in a blanke...
brain.nourishmentt
132.2K likes • 2.3M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save money and time by purchasing your Sedgwick County Zoo tickets online in advance.Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo is large; expect a lot of walking to see all the animals.Reddit

☀️ Beat the Heat

Arrive early, especially on sunny days, to see animals when they're most active and avoid the midday heat.Reddit

📱 Check Zoo Website

Verify exhibit closures or special event schedules before your visit to avoid disappointment.Reddit

🦒 Feed the Giraffes

An interactive experience that's a hit with visitors of all ages.Reddit

💡 Plan for a Full Day

There's so much to see and do, you'll want to dedicate an entire day to explore.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Sedgwick County Zoo for its beautiful, clean grounds and world-class animal habitats, especially the popular baby elephants and chimpanzees. While some note the extensive walking and occasional animal inactivity, the overall experience is considered a fantastic value and a top-notch destination for all ages.

"Had a wonderful Saturday exploring the Sedgwick County Zoo with two friends! We booked our tickets online, which I highly recommend—it was simple and saved us $25 total ($5 per ticket) compared to the gate price.

​The zoo itself is beautiful and was decorated with these incredible, giant animal lanterns from some kind of special event. The snow leopard and butterfly displays we saw were a magical touch and made the walkways even more fun.

We spent most of our day exploring the Africa, South America, and Australia sections, and the habitats are truly world-class.

​A few tips for your visit:
​Arrive Early! The zoo is HUGE. We weren't able to see the North America section because we ran out of time. To cover everything without rushing, I'd say the best time to get there is between 10 and 11 AM.

​Check for Closures: We were disappointed to find the Cessna Penguin Cove was closed for maintenance. It’s probably a good idea to check their website before you go.

​Animal Naps are Real: It was a sunny day, so the lion and tiger were snoozing in the shade, and we couldn't find the red panda. It happens, but if you want to see them active, an earlier or cooler day might be better!

​Even with the few things we missed, it was an amazing day out. It’s a top-notch zoo and a fantastic value."

Raj Kopuru

"Beautiful, clean, fun. Expect a lot of walking so the earlier you go to beat the heat, the better. Probably a good idea to wear a hat or use sunscreen too. Loved seeing the animals up close. The gift shop was very nice too. We bought our tickets online and saved some money."

pav413

"Big area with lots of walking. Had a few exotic amimal . Wish they had more viewing of the big game but were mostly camouflaged by too many obstacles in the way . They need more indoor viewings. more single directional signs instead of multi signs . Enjoyed the different decoration. Should post signs at the entrance of closed exhibits. Employees were awesome. Bit pricey for the selections of animals. About 50.00 dollars for 2 adults. Tomorrow, Omaha's zoo. we'll have to see the difference. Indoor lighting needs adjustments too much reflection on glass. Over-all good"

Pedro Sanchez

What People Like

Beautiful and clean zoo
World-class animal habitats
Adorable baby animals

What People Dislike

Extensive walking required
Animals sometimes inactive
Can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Sedgwick County Zoo is located at 5555 W Zoo Blvd, Wichita, KS 67212.TikTok It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is generally recommended for visitors coming from outside the immediate Wichita area.

Yes, Sedgwick County Zoo offers parking for visitors. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons or special events, to secure a convenient spot.

Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at the zoo's entrance. This can be a convenient option if you're not driving.

The zoo is generally accessible, with paved pathways throughout. Motorized scooters are also available for rent for those who need them.Reddit

From downtown Wichita, take I-235 North to the Zoo Boulevard exit. Turn west onto Zoo Boulevard, and the zoo will be on your right. Always check a GPS for real-time traffic updates.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but booking online in advance often provides a discount compared to purchasing at the gate.Reddit Check the official Sedgwick County Zoo website for the most current pricing for adults, children, and seniors. Sedgwick County Zoo prices are generally considered a good value for the experience.Reddit

You can purchase Sedgwick County Zoo tickets online through their official website, which is highly recommended to save money.Reddit Tickets are also available for purchase at the zoo's entrance, but may be more expensive.

Look for online booking discounts.Reddit The zoo may offer special promotions or military discounts; checking their website or contacting them directly is the best way to find current offers. Sedgwick County Zoo discount days are not always advertised, so online booking is key.

Sedgwick County Zoo hours typically vary by season. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit, as they can change.

Yes, Sedgwick County Zoo offers membership options that can provide benefits like free admission for a year and discounts on special events. This can be a great value for frequent visitors.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors rave about the baby elephants TikTokInstagram+2 and the young chimpanzees like Kyansa.TikTok+1 Other popular exhibits include the African lions, tigers, and the snow leopard display.TikTok

Yes, Sedgwick County Zoo features a petting zoo area, offering a hands-on experience for younger visitors to interact with friendly farm animals.TikTok

Beyond the petting zoo, kids can enjoy a train ride through the zoo and a boat ride on the river.TikTok The zoo also has interactive exhibits and plenty of space to explore.

Yes, motorized scooters and possibly strollers are available for rent at the zoo. This is a great option for those who need assistance with mobility.Reddit

Wild Lights is a popular holiday event where the zoo is transformed with thousands of Asian-inspired lantern sculptures and light displays.TikTokInstagram+2 It typically runs from mid-October through December.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The zoo offers various dining options, including cafes and snack stands. You can also purchase a cup for $10 that provides free refills for the day.Reddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are permitted at Sedgwick County Zoo, but it's always a good idea to check their specific policy on their website. This can be a great way to save money.

Yes, there are several restaurants located near Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, KS, offering a range of cuisines for visitors looking for dining options outside the zoo.

While specific menus can change, most zoo eateries offer a selection of items that can accommodate vegetarian diets. Vegan options may be more limited, so checking with the food vendor on-site is recommended.

Yes, Sedgwick County Zoo has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, animal-themed merchandise, and other items.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The baby elephants are incredibly photogenic,TikTokInstagram+2 as are the young chimpanzees.TikTok+1 The Wild Lights event offers stunning nighttime photo opportunities.TikTokInstagram The diverse habitats also provide beautiful backdrops.

Typically, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography for commercial purposes may require special permits. It's best to contact the zoo's media relations department for clarification.

While generally permitted, avoid using flash photography near sensitive animals, as it can disturb them. Also, be mindful of other visitors and do not block pathways while taking photos.

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing clear shots of animals. The Wild Lights event provides unique opportunities for evening photography.TikTokInstagram

The African Elephant exhibit with the babies,TikTokInstagram+2 the Chimpanzee enclosure,TikTok+1 and the open bird exhibits Reddit are often highlighted for their photographic potential.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sedgwick County Zoo is a fantastic destination for families. Kids will be thrilled by the baby elephants TikTokInstagram+2 and the playful chimpanzees.TikTok+1 Don't miss the petting zoo for hands-on fun,TikTok and consider a train ride or boat ride for added adventure.TikTok

To make the most of your family visit, arrive early to beat the crowds and heat, and wear comfortable shoes for all the walking. Checking the zoo's website for any exhibit closures beforehand can help manage expectations. The zoo's clean facilities and scattered restrooms also make it convenient for families.

💰 Budget Travelers

To save money at Sedgwick County Zoo, book your tickets online in advance; this often comes with a discount compared to gate prices.Reddit Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks to avoid purchasing them inside, though the zoo does offer a refillable cup option for beverages.Reddit

While admission has a cost, the zoo offers a full day of entertainment and educational experiences. Look out for any potential discount days or membership benefits if you plan to visit multiple times. The sheer variety of animals and exhibits provides excellent value for the admission price.

💑 Couples & Date Nights

Sedgwick County Zoo offers a charming setting for couples. During the day, explore the diverse animal exhibits and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautifully designed habitats.Instagram Consider a boat ride for a unique shared experience.TikTok

For a truly romantic evening, the Wild Lights event during the holiday season is a must.TikTokInstagram+2 Wandering through the illuminated zoo under the stars creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for a memorable date night. Booking tickets in advance is recommended for this popular event.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Baby Animals

Sedgwick County Zoo has become famous for its recent influx of adorable baby animals, particularly elephants and chimpanzees. The birth of multiple baby elephants, such as Bomani and Kijani, has drawn significant attention, with videos of their playful antics going viral.TikTokInstagram+2 These young elephants are a major draw for visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of their energetic moments.

Similarly, the chimpanzee troop has welcomed new additions like Kyansa, who has been documented learning to crawl and interact with her mother, Mahale.TikTok+1 The zoo's veterinary team and animal care staff play a crucial role in ensuring the health and development of these young animals, often sharing updates on their progress.TikTok The emotional reunion between Mahale and her newborn Kucheza after a difficult birth also garnered international attention, highlighting the deep bonds within animal families.Instagram+1

These baby animal stories not only bring joy to visitors but also underscore the zoo's commitment to conservation and breeding programs. Seeing these young animals thrive is a testament to the dedicated care provided by the Sedgwick County Zoo team, making it a truly special place for animal lovers.

Wild Lights: A Festive Transformation

During the holiday season, Sedgwick County Zoo undergoes a magical transformation with its annual 'Wild Lights' event.TikTokInstagram+1 This popular attraction turns the zoo into an immersive light art experience, featuring thousands of Asian-inspired lantern sculptures. Visitors can wander through the zoo after dark, exploring a wonderland of illuminated displays that bring the animal kingdom to life in a new, enchanting way.

The event typically runs from mid-October through December, offering a unique opportunity to experience the zoo in a different light. It's a perfect destination for families, couples, and anyone looking to embrace the festive spirit.TikTokInstagram The intricate designs of the lanterns, often depicting animals and natural scenes, create a breathtaking spectacle. It's advisable to purchase tickets in advance for Wild Lights, as it's a highly anticipated event that draws large crowds.TikTok

Wild Lights provides a memorable evening out, combining the wonder of the zoo with the magic of holiday lights. It's a chance to see familiar exhibits in a completely new and dazzling perspective, making it a must-visit during the festive season in Wichita.

Navigating the Zoo: Tips for a Great Visit

Sedgwick County Zoo is a sprawling facility, and visitors often emphasize the importance of planning to make the most of their day. Arriving early, ideally between 10 and 11 AM, is a frequently cited tip to avoid the midday heat and see animals when they are most active.Reddit This also helps in navigating the zoo before it becomes too crowded.

Comfortable footwear is essential, as the zoo involves a significant amount of walking.Reddit Visitors also recommend checking the zoo's website for any exhibit closures or maintenance schedules before arriving to prevent disappointment, such as the closure of the Penguin Cove mentioned by one reviewer.Reddit The zoo's layout is organized by continent, making it easier to explore specific regions, but it's still a large area to cover in a single visit.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience or with mobility challenges, renting a motorized scooter is a viable option.Reddit The zoo also offers interactive experiences like feeding the giraffes and stingrays, which are highly recommended for adding an extra layer of engagement to the visit.Reddit Overall, a well-planned visit, considering the zoo's size and animal activity patterns, ensures a rewarding experience.