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Phoenix Zoo

3.8 (1.1k reviews)
Open 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Updated 2 months ago

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Alyssa W.

I haven't been to the zoo in over ten years, so we were excited to experience it again and take our 2 year old daughter. Definitely a letdown. I appreciate that kids 2 and under get in free, honestly it should be like 4 though. It's SO expensive! We got a discount through work and it was still over $50 for 2 adult tickets. And then there's all these extras to buy in the zoo like feeding the giraffe, riding the camel, etc. really? Why not just have it included in general admission pricing? I also appreciated being able to bring in food and water because the cafe was also so expensive! Was also weird to see a random Toyota truck just chillin on the side of the walking path at one point. We get it. You're sponsored. Everyone says Wildlife is better so we will be trying that next.

Giant turtles
Steve S.

If you want to get your steps in, this is the place to do it. Wear your good walking shoes and be ready to shed clothing 1/2 way through the day. They do offer strollers and 4 wheel electric carts (animal themed) for an extra price but you can't take them to all of the exhibits. There is also a team of sorts that you can ride, and that is narrated by staff. That being said, a few of the animals we wanted to see, weren't in their habitats. The Zoo isn't affiliated with the city, as it's a private company, but otherwise it's very well done. There are a few park like areas for the kids to burn off some energy which is nice. You can bring a cooler with you, in case you have dietary restrictions, or if you're just cheap like we are. All in all it's a good way to spend an afternoon and maybe the kids will learn something along the way.

Norah L.

This zoo was very interesting. It had a lot of native wildlife. The animas were also very good variety's of desert reptiles. They had great enclosures just most of the animals weren't out. They had a lot of good food options for any age. There was a lot to do for kids as well. The only thing I didn't love was the health of the farm and petting zoo with the goats not looking in the best condition they could be in. The parking was also full so we had to walk a ways to get to the part. The last thing is that is very expensive to get in but if you have another zoos membership you get a discount.

Jim R.

We spent a morning strolling through the zoo in the warm January sunshine. The zoo layout promotes meandering as you wind in an out of the exhibits. Because of the rock and roll marathon, we had to park over at the ASU baseball parking lot and walk the 15 minutes to the zoo entrance because of road closures. The upside of this is after arriving around 9 when it opened, we had the place largely to ourselves for an hour or so which was fantastic. The zoo's marque animal in my opinion are the two Sumatran rhinos and the lions. Sadly the are still exhibiting orangutans. Birds feature significantly across the collection including some people friendly flamingos that came right up to the fence as we observed them. There are also quite a few types of monkeys, hoofed stock and a tiger, leopard a small pride of lions.

Lea C.

What can I say? We have a great zoo. As the weather is cooling down, we get back into our rhythm of trying to pop in here as often as we can. We love the new big cats area and got a glimpse of the year-old kittens that are new to the zoo. We also wanted to take the time to go see the lion Cubs one more time as they are now old enough to be transferred to a different zoo and cannot believe how big they've gotten! We were also very sad to hear the news that Fernando the sloth had passed away :(

Tammy M.

I love the Phoenix Zoo. It had been years since I last visited and they have made some major upgrades. The workers we interacted with were friendly and helped us with questions. My favorite area is where the horse stables are!

Tori M.

We love this zoo! So many animals and during great weather they're super active. We got to see a lot of them out and about today.

Plan appropriately for the heat! I recommend a UPF umbrella and a fan to go along with the usual sunblock, water, etc.
Diele K.

For the last 5+ years, I've been a Phoenix Zoo member. Ironically, Pokemon Go got me to visit after almost a decade and become a member. Though, I've been coming since I was in a stroller and included a fun photo! Loved visiting as a kiddo, and glad I found myself visiting a few times a year as a Phoenix Zoo member. Definitely suggest if you are an individual to get the individual plus as you get a free flexible guest. Love the ability to bring along a friend, family member like my mom for Mother's Day recently, or even a coworker. I find if I go 2-3 times, then the pass price evens out. Plus, I know it's going to help maintain and preserve the quality of life for these amazing animals. Check out this zoo if you are local or visiting. It's not a large city zoo like San Diego, but still a great zoo!

Mickie A.

This is a lovely zoo. The staff is so well informed and friendly. It was a great place to spend an afternoon with the family. It's Time for zoo lights, so it's in the plan to go back. It looks like it's a good one.

John B.

I really do love this zoo. It is small enough to wander through without feeling like you're going on a marathon hike. The animal enclosures are quite spacious and the animals have room to wander as well as hide from the humans. There are a number of places to get food and drink. Parking is easy, except during zoo lights during December.

Dwayne O.

Phoenix Zoo This Zoo has all kinds of animals on display from turtles to monkeys to lions to elephants to giraffes. the Zoo has a lot of inclines and hills, so get your walking shoes ready and hop on the tram, it is well worth it especially on the many warm days there. Took my 91 year old mother there, she told me she has never seen a live giraffe, not only did she she the giraffe up close but actually fed the giraffe. There is also Zoolights during the holidays, something very nice to share with the family

Bird taking donations and stuffing it in the cash box.
Aini R.

We visited today from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and had a great time exploring the different animals and enjoying lunch at the Savannah Café. The kids' meal was a great value, and I loved that apple juice was an option for the fountain drinks. Don't miss the 10:30 a.m. Animal Encounter show at the amphitheater--it's a fun opportunity to see a few of the creatures up close. Be sure to bring a little cash so the bird can "take your donation" and drop it in the box--it's adorable! Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring a towel and change of clothes for the kids. There are playgrounds and splash pads that make it easy for little ones to get wet and have fun.

Cat nap
Jacqui B.

Overall, the zoo was underwhelming for me in years past, but I see they recently have been making an effort with some updated exhibits and guest experiences. Zoo Lights is always a fun addition to our holiday activities; I just wish it was more affordable and parking didn't have to be so far away for those who can't arrive earlier in the afternoon. October, November, February, and March are great months to visit with smaller crowds.

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25 days ago

Yes it's a nice zoo. Poor layout. Very very very boring for little kids. Definitely a lot dinner choices for toddlers in Phoenix

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Phoenix Zoo Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Phoenix Zoo

How much is admission?

When purchased at the zoo: Adult (14+): $39.95 Child (3-13): $29.95… Read more

Aceptan entrar con perros?

En el zoológico de Phoenix solo se permiten animales de servicio vacunados oficialmente que estén incluidos en la (ADA). Esto excluye el apoyo emocional. Los guardaparques validarán antes de conceder la entrada.

By any chance, is it a possibility where I can ride an elephant or be very close to it? That has always been his dream.

Hi Aislinn, You cannot ride elephants at the Phoenix Zoo. We do offer a Backstage Adventure where… Read more

Are Service dogs allowed?

Yes, trained and vaccinated service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are permitted with visitors with disabilities. The Zoo follows AZA guidelines, which is for the protection of the animals. When a guest brings a… Read more

What kind of shoes should I wear to zoo lights?

You can wear any shoes! Usually I wear tennis shoes or closed toe shoes because it can be a decent amount of walking! I've also gone in flip flops too!

Do they accept Apple Pay when Purchasing Tickets?

Unfortunately, at this time we do not accept Apple Pay.

Is there a nursing room for moms and babies?

No there's not unfortunately. But there's plenty of places, some secluded, that are perfect for nursing!

What is the best time of day to go on a Monday?

I'd recommend calling and asking if they are expecting field trips on said day. If so, and if you want to avoid the school crowds, then after 1pm. But honestly anytime on a Monday is fine. The Zoo is pretty big and spaced out.

How much for adult and kids?

Hi Kellyn, thanks for reaching out! General Admission:… Read more

View All 13 Questions

Review Highlights - Phoenix Zoo

Our favorites are the orangutan, giraffes, monkey village, camels, elephants, tigers and baboons.

Mentioned in 24 reviews

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Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park - Lory

Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park

(1.1k reviews)

Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park is not a "quick stop" zoo -- it's a full-on adventure…read moreday. First of all, this place is massive. You need time, comfy shoes, and realistic expectations because there is SO much ground to cover. Zoo, aquarium, safari park -- it really does feel like three attractions in one. The aquarium section honestly surprised me. That massive prehistoric-looking fish (looked straight out of a dinosaur era) was unreal. Between the giant tanks and the variety of species, it didn't feel like a small add-on -- it felt like a legit aquarium experience inside the zoo. The animal variety is wild. We saw everything from vibrant macaws perched up high greeting guests, to monkeys lounging in the sun, to antelope practically close enough to admire their horns in detail. The white tiger was stunning, and the big cats pacing in their enclosures definitely command your attention. You're not just looking at one or two showcase animals -- there's a LOT here. It's not super polished or ultra-modern like some major metro zoos, but that's kind of the vibe. It feels expansive, a little rugged, very Arizona. More spread out, less theme-park aesthetic. A couple things to note: it can get warm and it's a lot of walking. Food options are typical park-style fare -- nothing I'd go out of my way for. Pricing can add up with admission and extras, so plan accordingly. Overall, a solid four stars. If you're looking for a full day with serious animal variety -- from aquarium tanks to safari species to big cats -- this place delivers. Just come prepared to explore.

It's a giant zoo & the aquarium has some really cool features. However, I just don't think it's…read moreworth the cost. I purchased the annual membership and it costs more than the family plan at the Phoenix Zoo. As a stay at home mom, I was looking for things to entertain my daughter during the week. Most of the restaurants and exhibits were closed the days I came by. I purchased a membership so of course I want to come on a day other than Saturday to avoid the huge crowds, but I felt like I couldn't use my membership to its full advantage because it was practically deserted during the week staff/amenity wise. Could only buy a drink/food at one of the food courts at the front of the zoo which was frustrating considering how huge this place is and when it's hot, the rides were closed most of the time (plus they cost extra, even for members), and the giraffe feedings weren't ever available either. I tried multiple days during the week as well and had the same experience. I'm not sure if the little snack shacks & places are open on Saturdays or if they are closed permanently, but there were a ton of unused/unopened spaces that look like they'd be cool... if they were operable. $261.59 felt like a lot to just walk around in dirt to look at animals in an outdated space. Plus only I could take my daughter alone or else we would need to spend an additional $262 for my husband to have a membership. If you have kids 3+, it would be an additional $133 per child! Greeeeeedy if you ask me considering the Phoenix zoo prices. We didn't renew and will make the drive to the Phoenix zoo. The gas money will be worth the much lower membership price over there.

OdySea Aquarium - OdySea Aquarium at Arizona Boardwalk

OdySea Aquarium

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I haven't been here in years, and forgot how enjoyable this aquarium is. It's got a nice variety of…read morefish and other cool animals like penguins and even a sloth. The animal habitats look clean and you can tell they're well cared for. This is a great place to go for a school trip with the touching pools as the employees teach you about the occupants. My favorite part is definitely the voyager, which is a small theatre like atmosphere that rotates around while you learn of the different fish, sharks, turtles etc, much like the carousel of progress in Disney. They have a nice place to grab some food, Starbucks, or even an adult beverage. The entire thing is situated within a complex that houses shops, a dinosaur exhibit, a UFO encounter, a center area called the boardwalk with a carousel and soon a Ferris wheel. I really enjoy the Frozen Penguin ice cream shop with its delicious treats, perfect on a hot day. Overall it's a great place to visit really enjoyed the day.

The aquarium was absolutely wonderful. From the minute that you arrive, you are submerged into all…read morethese wonderful exhibits. I really loved the projected scenes on the walls at the entryway. I also think it's really cute that they take your picture when you get to aquarium. We did not purchase our photo although it was very nice one. It was just a little too pricey, $30 for one photo if I am not mistaken. I personally love to go to the aquarium to see their variety of jellyfish and stingrays, and I am always especially happy when they have puffer fish. I was in luck. Not only did they have a wonderful, huge amazing display of jellyfish, but they also had the cutest display of puffer fish. I was finally able to show my daughter what they look like up close. That was pretty special to me. And even better, as I took a picture of these puffer fish on my phone, they noticed my sparkly keychain. When they saw that, they were drawn to it. They came right up to the glass. My daughter was in awe. The aquarium has this amazing rotating display. At first, I didn't know what to think about it. I didn't quite understand what it was. So of course, naturally, my family and I had to check it out. You are seated in a small auditorium. Their seats are more than comfortable, and the auditorium is very well air-conditioned. It takes you through a series of different huge displays. One of them features some of the most beautiful stingrays I've ever seen. Another features sea lions. And of course, a few feature the different fish and sharks. I have never in my life experienced a presentation like that. It was amazing. If we had had more time, I probably would've wanted to watch the presentation a second time. My kiddo isn't so young and teeny tiny anymore, but there are lots of little kids play areas at the aquarium. There is what I called the water table. There is running water that flows through there and the kids are able to use flat panels of plastic to redirect the water through this kind of maze if you will. That's a big favor. Be sure you have paper towels on hand for when your kiddo is done here. They will most likely be wet up to their elbows. It's a cute and fun way to make friends too. They are different opportunities for visitors to get more up close and impersonal with a variety of animals that they have here at the aquarium. We did not participate. One day, hopefully we can. There was so much to see. Everyone at the aquarium was so friendly. There are some Touch pools and opportunities for kids to pet different sea plants and small animals. That is always fun. One thing I had never seen before was a Starbucks inside of a aquarium. This is not just any Starbucks my friends. This particular Starbucks understands that parents need a break too. I'm not talking strictly about coffee. The Starbucks inside of this aquarium offers a small variety of adult drinks. Yes, you heard me correctly. They offered beer. I believe they also offer a few seltzers. Anyway, I thought that was pretty cool. My family and I didn't have an opportunity to actually enjoy anything from Starbucks, but we did take notice of their offerings. If you will be in the area for a couple of days, this is easily one of the better things to be able to take advantage of. If you purchased your aquarium tickets along with tickets to other attractions at the Arizona Boardwalk at the same time, you can create a ticket bundle. In doing so, you will receive a discount on your tickets. I can't quite remember what the percentage off amount was. However, we did purchase tickets to the aquarium as well as to the Museum of illusions. I think that might've given us 20 or 30% off of the combined ticket price. Definitely check it out online. It was a good deal. Parking here is free. They have lots completely around the entire boardwalk area. I really enjoy the boardwalk space. There is a large courtyard in the middle. It is great and perfect space for kids to come and enjoy lunch outside, especially for small schools that come to visit for a field trip. It really is just a beautiful spot. The aquarium and our experience at the boardwalk area was phenomenal. You must take a moment to check out the bathroom. Initially, I thought the whole little thing about the bathroom being cool was some sort of a joke or just something funny to post. But no, it really is pretty awesome. People often flock to the bathroom just to check that out. It can make for kind of a tight situation when the bathroom area is being crowded because people want to see the sharks. But, it was the one time that I could say that there were sharks in my bathroom. LOL Our visit here worked out perfectly. We came here right after breakfast and by the time that we left, it was definitely time for a little bit of a late lunch. There is definitely more than enough for everyone here.

Desert Botanical Garden - Desert Pulse exhibit

Desert Botanical Garden

(2k reviews)

Beautiful area to stroll in nature and see desert plants and animals, with a similar experience to…read moreBoyce Thompson Arboretum but less sprawling. The spring is also a great opportunity to see cactus flowering; the nice thing is experiencing the space in different seasons. They frequently have special exhibits and events. This month, it was focused on desert photography and there were several screens put up throughout the garden including a video screening indoors. They also have the garden at night if you want to explore under the cover of darkness and the garden is lit up. On certain weekends they also have dog days where pets can come with owners. In the butterfly area they happened to be releasing butterflies so we got to open envelopes and let them go; kids especially enjoyed this. There are plenty of lizards, bees, hummingbirds and other birds, and for the first time saw a snake slithering around. In the summer, they open early and it's better to go early because it can get very warm when the sun is full force. There are many places to walk, sit on benches and enjoy nature. There are also water bottle filling stations and bathrooms throughout. There's a store with gifts and garden items and a restaurant as well. If you're a member, you also get a small discount at the store. The restaurant isn't cheap, entrees are about $30-35 and they have tacos, salads and appetizers. Near the airport and Papago park, visit the gardens for a peaceful outing.

This was my second visit to the Desert Botanical Garden. I went about 10 years ago and remembered…read moreit was one of my favorite things about visiting Phoenix, which also rang true during this trip. Coming from the East coast, the landscape in Arizona is like a different planet. It's beautiful with the cactus, wildlife, and unique vegetation. The Chihuly glass cactus exhibit at the front entrance is so pretty. I thoroughly enjoyed the butterfly exhibit. The gardens have such a nice flow, vibe, and architecture. There were a few concession areas with cold drinks and snacks, which we appreciated since it was very hot and sunny. I definitely recommend incorporating the Desert Botanical Garden into your schedule!

Phoenix Zoo - zoos - Updated May 2026

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