I would not go to this zoo. We don't even get out of our vehicle because it looked so run down that it didn't look like it was even open. I have never seen a zoo look so unkept starting at the entrance gate and going into the parking area. It is in a really bad part of town. I feel bad for the animals if they even have any.? We were so looking forward to stopping here for a break in our trip from Gulf Shores, AL to Arkansas. read more

Jackson Zoological Park - Another sign to the zoo from the road. - Zoos Near Me - Jackson, Mississippi

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This is, without a doubt, the worst zoo I've ever visited--and possibly the worst in the country. I've seen better conditions at small private facilities. If Joe Exotic went to jail for the state of his zoo, then the City of Jackson might want to take a hard look in the mirror. The animal enclosures are shockingly small, and the entire facility looks like something out of a horror movie. Neglect is the only word that comes to mind. Many of the exhibits are completely empty--some filled with trash, overgrown vegetation, and spider webs. Nearly all of the food stands are boarded up, and the office buildings appear abandoned. Customer service was no better--the woman at the front was short and rude, and that was before we even got inside. The gift shop is almost completely empty, with barely anything on the shelves. As for the animals--there are hardly any to see. The boardwalk, which leads to the few remaining exhibits, is partially closed, and the section that's open has unmarked, foot-sized holes that are a serious hazard. The structure shakes and sinks with every step, and the handrails are rotting and dangerously loose. The enclosures themselves raise serious animal welfare concerns. The Asiatic bear's habitat is far too small. The otter has no water to swim in. The cougar is visibly overweight. The beaver's pool is so low, it's essentially dry. To make matters worse, I overheard zoo employees openly complaining about people who speak negatively about the zoo. They insisted there was nothing wrong with the conditions and reassured each other that the remaining animals were just fine--as if that somehow justified the state of everything else. We visited on a beautiful spring Saturday and were two of maybe seven people in the entire zoo. That kind of attendance speaks volumes. This place feels completely forgotten--by its management, by the city, and by even the most basic standards of care. It's deeply concerning and frankly heartbreaking. Something needs to change. read more

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Do not waste your time or money in this place. This place is completely ran down. Half the exhibits have no animals in them/ abandoned. This area isn't well kept up. Animals do not have clean water. Maybe lack of funding?!?!? Cafe? Shut down, Animals ? maybe 20 , not over 100 like their website says. No elephant, giraffes, tigers, etc The ONLY good review I have is the zookeepers are very kind and you can tell they love the animals but somethings got to change. read more

Do not come here!!!! horrible surrounding area and horrible zoo in general, minimal animals and the ones here don't seem in amazing condition, if they stop earning revenue maybe they will reconsider the zoo moving too a new area and starting over in a rebuild read more

Worst zoo experience! This place looks run down & close to shutting down. Looks like half the exhibits are empty!

Happened to be in town this past weekend, and decided to visit this zoo, for fun. So...honestly I mostly enjoyed my experience. I can certainly see where the zoo (and the city) need to step up in a few places, but it's not as bad as many of you want to project. Full stop. There are indeed several animals to see, you just need to be patient and use your eyes, and you'll likely spot them in their exhibits. Taking a quick little glance and then assuming the animal is not out is silly and short-sighted. Yes, I think some of their animals are no longer on display, but that does happen. The zoo is the animal's home, and they aren't required to be sitting front and center, waiting for people to pass by! Also I get the vibe that they are operating with a very limited budget, and may have to be careful with spending. The gibbons were out and about, the rhino was very visible, and so was the river otter. He was an active little guy. The bears were also easy to find, and looked cared for. Also, the staff were friendly and knowledgeable. I'd go back again next time I find myself in the area. 3.5 stars out of 5. Give this place a chance! Don't be so negative, y'all. read more

My dad & I went to this zoo last minute. It was fun seeing all the animals but the zoo needs a lot of work. read more

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The Jackson Zoo looks like it's operating in a post-apocalyptic time. There are limited animals, which is probably a good thing since the place appears to be so poorly operated. The grounds are overgrown, pathways are cracked and uneven, and the enclosures aren't well kept. The city of Jackson should be ashamed and this place should be closed down for thr sake of the few animals there. It's just sad. Their website mentions ongoing projects. We did not see any evidence of projects or improvements. read more

Jackson Zoological Park - Non operational cafe - Zoos Near Me - Jackson, Mississippi

During COVID times, this zoo is only open on the weekends. It's a low key zoo that's relatively small with some pretty neat animals, such as a Sumatran tiger, playful cougars and Pygmy hippos. As always, zoo's depend on customers attendance to feed and take care of their animals. So why not learn something new, get some exercise and support a local zoo? Admission is $8. Time to explore I would say 1.5-2 hrs read more

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I love zoos! Since I'd run away from home for the night to Jackson, I thought I'd check out their zoo. My GPS took me through the "hood" as my teenagers would say. I was a little surprised at its location. Not the optimal place, IMO. They didn't ask me, just expressing my own opinion. Parking was simple and considering it's a small zoo, there was plenty. The cost of admission was only $8, and I'd looked online before going to I was aware that some exhibits were closed or under construction but I wasn't prepared for, what felt like, more than half the zoo to be closed, but for only $8, ‍ It made me a little sad. I DO understand that they are renovating and such so expecting a zoo filled with all the things was unrealistic. The carousel wasn't working and there was nowhere to even get a Coke. They had vending machines it most didn't work. They animals that I did get to see didn't look unhealthy but did look lonely. I understand that some animals aren't necessarily "pack" animals and they probably have keeps that socialize with them but it still made my heart sad. As I've said before, don't let me not so positive review keep you from going!! I did meet a sweet Momma with her two little girls. The littles didn't know any different so it was fun to watch them enjoy it all! So if you have littles, it's an inexpensive activity and seeing it through their little eyes is golden!! I'm praying this zoo is able to get it together! If moved, it has huge potential! I probably won't visit again, alone! Peace out! read more

This zoo was very disappointing. I've never seen a zoo this horrible. We went on January 2, 2024 and despite knowing that some of the exhibits would be closed we were not expecting to see how desolate it was. None of the snack facilities were open. The few animals that were present, were housed in unkempt exhibits. The trees and shrubs were overgrown. The water where the swans were swimming was smelly, murky and too shallow for them to swim adequately. I thought that maybe they were actively doing renovations but when I checked past reviews it appears that the facility has been in bad shape for at least a year. Unfortunately, I will not recommend this zoo. read more

We enjoyed our day at this zoo. You kinda have to go through a bar area of town to get to it though. Once inside the zoo though, you start to feel like a kid again. The cages are nice and they seem to care for the animals pretty well. There is a beautiful carrousel in the middle of the zoo. And you must ride the zoo train before you leave' read more

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Quite nice zoo, not world class, but very good for a town of Jackson's size. The animals and exhibits looked well-cared for. The otters and cougars were my favorites! The restrooms were clean and smelled nice, which is always a plus in a public place such as this. They have lots of interactive and educational exhibits for the kids. read more

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I have been to the San Diego Zoo and DC Zoo and it does not compare. However, I was pleasantly surprised with what they did have. It definitely compares to the likes of Big Bear, CA (which is a great zoo). Minus lions and bears, it had everything else. Only knock is neighborhood coming in is slightly sketchy. There are signs that say lock your doors. read more

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This Zoo will break your heart. Lonely animals in small single cages, empty exhibits, shuttered dining and bare shelves in the gift shop. The bones of the place show what it might have been. The reality is so incredibly sad. I left wishing I could do something for the animals. I'm not trying to drive business away with this stark assessment. People need to know what's going on here. It's a tragic place. It's in dire need of something drastic for the sake of every single animal that's not living it's best life here. Sigh. Truly the worst Zoo in America that our family has seen and we are Zoo aficionados. We cannot stop talking about how shocking our visit was and yes we live here. Jackson deserves better. The animals deserve better read more

Our grandchildren were visiting and we looked for places to take them, They love the zoo back home so I looked into the Jackson Zoo. Wow, all the negative reviews! We went anyways and had a great time. OK, so it wasn't the San Diego Zoo but then how many zoos meet that standard? While it was a bit rundown and needed some TLC, it was clean without any trash which I can't say for most larger zoos. The diversity of animals was better than expected for a zoo this size. I also liked the extra cards set out "from the ranger" that offered tips and insights into the specific animals. We went on a weekday morning so it was practically deserted which seemed a shame. I have no reservations recommending this zoo to anyone. read more

I have a love hate relationship with zoos but I have to say the care these animals get at the Jackson Zoo is wonderful. I would prefer these animals live their life in their natural habitat but if they must be kept this is a good place to be kept. The Jackson Zoo is big and you can literally spend a whole day there and see everything. A wonderful outdoor adventure. They often have events going on and they are quite fun to attend. Perfect to take the kids or perfect for a fun date. I've never not enjoyed myself there. read more

Jackson Zoological Park - Zoos Near Me - Jackson, Mississippi

The Jackson zoo is a pretty large zoo despite not being a super large city. Recently remodeled, I want to go back and check out the changes! read more

The Jackson Zoo is one of the most treasured spaces in the city. If you lived in the Jackson area as a kid there is a 95% chance you visited the site on a school trip or with family and friends. There is just something nostalgic about the city's zoo. It has a charm all its own. Considering it has been around for years some things seem to never change. The giraffe's were always my favorite. They have a majestic quality about them. The pair I saw today seemed to relish in the warm greetings the kids that appeared enthusiastically waving in their direction. I feel in love with a new featured animal in the park. Yoda, the Red Panda. He was the most precocious creature. His tail reminded me of a raccoon but his movements seemed fox- like. I immediately went home to do a bit of research on the animal. I knew of the species but not enough apparently. For days I told my young cousins about them and they immediately begged their mother for a trip to the Jackson Zoo! I think I just added two more fans of the place. You should stop by for a weekend date with a loved one and just roam around getting re- familiarized with the place. Or bring your family for an afternoon picnic on a nice sunny day. Its a unique place for people to just enjoy. read more

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My family visited the Jackson zoo on a quick trip to Jackson. It suited our needs. It was reasonably priced and a plus that there is a water play area for the children. I have 3 boys u see the age of 6 and they truly enjoyed the experience. read more

Jackson Zoological Park - Zoos Near Me - Jackson, Mississippi

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Only the Mobile Zoo has been more disappointing than this one and we--my disabled son and I take a boys-only vacation every year--have been to zoos all over the South. Many of the exhibits are empty and nearly all are in disrepair as is most of the zoo. Someone mentioned to me the zoo was having financial challenges, but in a city the size of Jackson, that's a poor excuse...As it is, the zoo reflects badly on an otherwise pleasant city, so the city should step up and improve it or close it. Only three good things I can say about the Jackson Zoo: My son enjoyed it, the Mobile Zoo is even worse and I got a great photo of a flamingo while I was there (I posted it here.) Don't waste your money and disappoint your children--drive 3 hours and enjoy the wonderful zoos in either Memphis, New Orleans or Baton Rouge. read more

Jackson Zoological Park - This was the most rewarding part of my visit to the Jackson Zoo, although my son enjoyed it and that was important. - Zoos Near Me - Jackson, Mississippi

I hadn't been here since I was a little girl and I must say I've been missing out. It was great to be able to bring my girls here. There's a great selection of animals to view. I enjoyed the giraffe the most. I look forward to bringing my girls back read more

We had so much fun and saw almost every animal. A zoo membership is worth the money. There have been many updates which may the visit all the more exciting and pleasant. I am proud of what the Jackson Zoo has become. read more

Jackson Zoological Park - Zoos Near Me - Jackson, Mississippi

This is probably the worst kept zoo I have seen.. the walking area is covered I weeds. Trash cans and trash were left dumped over. Some animals pins had trash in them and weeds and bushes over growing everywhere.. There was old ply wood just piled up by one of the monkeys cages... this zoo was disappointing and not worth seeing.. I feel bad these animals have to live in these conditions. read more

This is a decent little zoo. Lots of nice exhibits and friendly zoo keepers to add some insight to the different critters. Price is very affordable and the animals allow for very close viewing. Would be great for kids. May not be the best zoo I've been to, but definitely not the worst! read more

I went this morning 3/23/16 at around 10:30am. I loved the set up and the fact that they are renovating to make better exhibits soon. However the underwater exhibit had only turtles and otters right now. Loved the price 10.25 to get in and no parking charge. Love it! I walked through in about 2 hours(stopping for pictures and reading everything) read more

This is the best kept secret in Jackson! The zoo is a lovely place for kids from 9 months to 99 years...The animals are very interactive and seem most healthy content in their environment, and the zoo keepers are friendly and eager to engage with you and teach you interesting facts. We went to an end of the month event where there was live music, micro brewery tastings and it was just tons of fun was had for everyone. Had a great time interacting with critters and people alike. They have lost a lot of local government funding due to ridiculous politics and need public support now more than ever. Don't let this priceless gem slip away! Come see them today! read more

I love the zoo! They are working hard to expand, but I understand that funding is limited. They have improved so much in the 10 years that I've lived in Jackson. I'm proud to get a membership each year (granted this is the first or second year, now that my kids are old enough) and help support them when I am able. They put on a lot of great events each year. I wish more people in the metro would understand how nice our little zoo is and not be scared to come down to it! read more

Our family loves the zoo. They have giraffes, tigers, a rhino, flamingos, zebras & more. The splash pad is fantastic for summer. Their membership is one of the best deals in town. We highly recommend the zoo! It's worth a visit. read more

This place is in a terrible area and it's very dated and over priced. $ 24 for two adults and it's a small zoo with little zoo type animals we saw. Some must had been inside too. It needs much renovation. Kayla was one of the few staff members that was friendly. read more

The Jackson zoo despite the area it's located in which is questionable at best wasn't bad. The train and carousel were down which was going to be the highlight for my 13 month old son. Not the best zoo I've been to but not the worst. Even with all that said I still enjoyed my Saturday at the zoo. read more

Ok so I'm a sucker for animals, giraffes especially have a warm place in my heart. I recently had the pleasure to visit the Jackson Zoo and I was pleasantly pleased with how much it has to offer. Nestle in West Jackson, the zoo is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. When you get a chance stop by, get a snowball and say hello to our four legged residents. read more

We took our 4 kids over there yesterday to play at their water slide/bouncer area since it was so hot. We got there at 2pm and were there for literally 20 minutes and it started to rain. The staff then asked us to all leave so they could deflate the water bouncers. We went to the front desk to ask for a refund since we hadn't even been there for even half an hour and were pretty much asked to leave due to the weather. The staff there was pretty rude and basically told us that they were not going to give us a refund. We asked if we could get a voucher to come back another time and they couldn't even do that either. I do not recommend anyone coming here. They deserve to be put out of business. They don't even deserve one star. read more

When our grandchildren became old enough, we purchased a "GRANDPARENT" membership. We love it! Our grandchildren are very familiar with the zoo and the animals. While there are always projects to be done, the folks at the Jackson Zoo work tirelessly to improve and expand the facilities. There are always working to more animals into more natural habitats. I especially like the emphasis on educating visitors about the exhibits and animals. I commend them! read more

This is a smaller zoo than others but a good variety of animals. We had the opportunity to speak with a few of the zoo keepers as they worked. They were very kind and spoke to our children giving them so much information about the animals. We were lucky enough to see several people that day and the kids loved the opportunity to speak to a real Zoo Keeper. I wish there was more funding for this zoo. It looks like it started to be a really progressive zoo and then at some point stopped updating the grounds. The animals still seem well cared for, and very knowledgeable workers. It was a fantastic day for all! More people support our Jackson Zoo! We are a growing and beautiful city and should invest in more things like this. We are Big Fans of this zoo! Thank you employees of zoo. You made my kids day!!! read more

on Thursday March 22..I took my niece and her children to the zoo..we were really disappointed..especially since it cost $8 a person...The water exhibit would have been more interesting if could have seen thru the water but it was so dirty and green could not see anything...The grass was so high in some of the larger animals area could not see anything...Yes we walked the whole zoo..I remember going to the zoo and seeing everything..all the monkies and all..The way you describe the changes being made was going to be great..Well it wasn't worth the $50 it cost us..hate that they got rid of the monkey town...it was so great to always see them...As of now would not recommend anyone going back till things were better...I really hate having to write a bad review but it is the truth...IT IS NOT WORTH $8 a person to go see at this time read more