The best zoos in the United States are much more than fun places for families. They are also important centers for saving animal species and restoring natural habitats. While children love seeing their favorite animals from books and movies, these zoos do vital work beyond their exhibits. From the San Antonio Zoo’s partnership with indigenous groups in the Amazon to the San Diego Zoo’s care for over 12,000 rare animals, these institutions make a positive impact on ecosystems both locally and globally.
Here’s a closer look at some of the top zoos across the country. We highlight their key conservation programs and share some must-see animals for your next visit.
Oakland Zoo — Oakland, California
Oakland Zoo focuses on conservation in three key areas: local communities, regional wildlife, and global species protection. Half a dollar from every ticket helps protect chimpanzees, African elephants, and California gray wolves. The zoo also works to save local species like riparian brush rabbits, yellow-legged frogs, and herons. Globally, it supports habitat recovery for cotton-top tamarins and fights illegal macaw trade. Visitors can enjoy watching lions bask in the sun and playful otters, knowing their visit supports important wildlife causes.
San Antonio Zoo — Texas
The San Antonio Zoo actively works on local animal restoration projects, such as reintroducing the Texas horned lizard. Its Project Selva, a collaboration with Amazon indigenous communities, aims to reduce harmful parachute research and respect local ecological knowledge. Visitors can see rare cassowaries in the Wild Australia exhibit, spectacled bears enjoying fresh fruit, and lively lemurs at Pride Plaza.
Woodland Park Zoo — Seattle, Washington
Ranked among North America’s most awarded zoos, Woodland Park Zoo creates natural habitats that closely mimic the wild. Visitors can spot grizzly bears, jaguars, and lions in realistic settings. Its Living Northwest program focuses on saving endangered species native to the Pacific Northwest. Other efforts include the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program in Papua New Guinea and the Snow Leopard Conservation Project in Kyrgyzstan.
The Bronx Zoo — New York City, New York
The Bronx Zoo is America’s oldest and one of its largest zoos, spanning 265 acres with over 6,000 animals across 650 species. Visitors enjoy a 4D theater experience and the Treetop Adventure ropes course. The zoo leads major conservation projects, including the reintroduction of the American bison to western plains.
Smithsonian National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute — Washington, D.C.
Located in Rock Creek Park, the National Zoo spans 163 acres and houses 2,700 animals like elephants, cheetahs, and gorillas. Its star residents are the giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao, viewable in a specially designed habitat. The zoo draws large crowds, so early arrival is recommended. For panda fans, the zoo’s live Panda Cams offer a chance to watch these animals online anytime.
Brookfield Zoo — Chicago, Illinois
Brookfield Zoo offers a rich tropical wildlife experience even in winter, featuring its Tropical World exhibit with birds, primates, and plants from South America and Asia. Visitors can walk over suspension bridges and occasionally spot rare western lowland gorillas. The zoo supports conservation programs like Save the Pangolin and the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program.
Fort Worth Zoo — Texas
The Fort Worth Zoo is known for its long-running Puerto Rican Crested Toad reintroduction program, active for over 35 years. It participates in many conservation projects locally and internationally. Aside from animals like meerkats, penguins, and orangutans, the zoo hosts educational exhibits such as Women in STEM and a Junior Train Conductor program.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium — Ohio
Thanks to former director Jack Hanna’s TV fame, the Columbus Zoo is among the top zoos in the country. It has created a Florida-like environment with the largest manatee exhibit outside Florida and a large coral reef tank. The zoo is home to one of the best primate collections, once housing Colo, the oldest gorilla born in captivity.
St. Louis Zoo — Missouri
Situated in Forest Park, the free St. Louis Zoo attracts millions each year with 600 species, including rare red pandas and sea lions. Its African savannah exhibit is impressive. The zoo’s WildCare Institute supports global wildlife research through 17 centers studying species such as African painted dogs and Galapagos birds.
San Diego Zoo — California
The San Diego Zoo is one of the world’s most famous zoos, spanning 100 acres and home to over 12,000 rare and endangered animals. With 600 species and 700,000 plants, it creates a lush jungle environment. Visitors can see unique animals like babirusas, fossas, and okapis, along with favorites such as sloths, penguins, and gorillas.
Conclusion
These leading U.S. zoos combine entertainment with powerful conservation efforts. Whether restoring endangered species or educating the public, their work protects wildlife and habitats for future generations.
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