The best zoos in the U.S. aren't just places for people to see animals up close — they protect and care for some of our planet's most vulnerable creatures. Animals aren't confined in stifling cages, but can instead roam through thoughtfully designed habitats that resemble their natural environments and provide spaces where animals can hide if they don't wish to be seen. A day at a great zoo isn't free, but your ticket, snack, and souvenir dollars help support their essential conservation work.
* San Diego Zoo (San Diego, CA): Over 12,000 animals reside in the San Diego Zoo, representing over 650 species and subspecies. Kids will love the zoo's Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, and everyone is sure to enjoy the Skyfari Aerial Tram, which offers quick transit around the hilly property and fantastic views of the zoo and the surrounding Balboa Park area.
* Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (Omaha, NE): The conservation-focused Henry Doorly Zoo boasts the world's largest indoor desert, where visitors can see meerkats, peccaries and death adders year-round. Head to the lower level of the exhibit to Kingdoms of the Night, where an array of nocturnal creatures await you.
* Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (Cincinnati, OH): One of the nation's oldest zoos, the Cincinnati Zoo brings visitors up close and personal with hippos (including the famous Fiona), meerkats, and Florida manatees. Stroll through the gardens to enjoy thousands of seasonal plants, or attend one of their many educational events for home gardeners.
* ZooTampa at Lowry Park (Tampa, FL): Consistently recognized as one of the nation's most family-friendly zoos, ZooTampa is also renowned for its work in wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and release. Visitors can see over 1,000 animals, including African painted dogs, Florida panthers, Malayan tigers, and Queensland koalas.
* Bronx Zoo (New York, NY): The Bronx Zoo houses more than 6,000 animals across its sprawling 265-acre property and is a global leader in wildlife conservation. In addition to exhibits like the Congo Gorilla Forest, visitors can enjoy the Zoo's famed Gilded Age architecture and pioneering landscape design.
