Planning summer activities or a family trip? This list features 20 of the best zoos to visit this summer across the United States. From world-famous zoos and free admission parks to safari-style exhibits and kid-friendly attractions, these zoos offer...
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One of the most popular zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo features massive open habitats and hundreds of animal species—perfect for a full summer day.
San Diego Zoo
The Bronx Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the U.S., offering immersive exhibits and family-friendly attractions right in New York City.
Bronx Zoo
Located in Washington, DC, the Smithsonian National Zoo offers free admission and is home to iconic animals like giant pandas.
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
One of the oldest zoos in the U.S., this zoo blends animals and gardens for a beautiful and educational summer visit.
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
The Dallas Zoo offers expansive habitats and interactive exhibits, making it a great summer destination for animal lovers.
Dallas Zoo
Zoo Atlanta is a family favorite known for its panda exhibits and engaging animal encounters.
Zoo Atlanta
One of the best free zoos in the country, the St. Louis Zoo offers world-class exhibits without breaking the budget.
Saint Louis Zoo
The Denver Zoo features naturalistic habitats with stunning scenery, making it a great summer stop.
Denver Zoo
The Memphis Zoo is known for family-friendly events and shaded exhibits that make summer visits enjoyable.
Memphis Zoo
The Memphis Zoo is known for family-friendly events and shaded exhibits that make summer visits enjoyable.
Memphis Zoo
Frequently ranked among the best zoos in the world, this zoo offers huge indoor exhibits—perfect for summer heat breaks.
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Located near Chicago, Brookfield Zoo is a spacious zoo with diverse animals and aquatic exhibits.
Brookfield Zoo
The Kansas City Zoo offers expansive savanna-style habitats that feel like a mini safari experience.
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
A top-rated family zoo with interactive areas and shaded walkways, ideal for summer outings.
Fort Worth Zoo
The San Antonio Zoo is a great add-on to a summer Texas trip, offering a wide variety of animal exhibits.
San Antonio Zoo
Known for its conservation efforts, the Oregon Zoo is perfect for a relaxed summer visit in mild weather.
Oregon Zoo
The Minnesota Zoo offers expansive walking paths and immersive habitats ideal for summer exploration.
Minnesota Zoo
One of the largest privately owned zoos in the U.S., perfect for early summer mornings and shaded exhibits.
Phoenix Zoo
The Los Angeles Zoo offers beautiful views, diverse animals, and a laid-back summer experience.
Los Angeles Zoo
Zoo Miami is one of the largest open-air zoos in the U.S., featuring cage-free habitats and tropical scenery. With shaded walkways, splash areas, and a wide variety of animals, it’s a perfect summer zoo for families and warm-weather travelers.
