Are you tired of the same old zoo experience? Look no further than these six lesser-known zoos in the United States that are sure to surprise and delight you this summer.

• Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
• Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
• The Wilds
• Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
• Zoo Atlanta
• Bristol’s Clifton Zoo

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium

With over 160 acres of immersive habitats, the Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is a must-visit destination for any animal lover. Accredited by both the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) and the World Association of Zoos & Aquariums (WAZA), this zoo is renowned for its commitment to conservation and education. Among its most popular attractions is the Desert Dome, a 70-foot glazed geodesic dome that showcases cacti, succulents, and desert wildlife from multiple continents. This incredible structure is truly a marvel of engineering and design, providing a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Another standout attraction is the Kingdoms of the Night, the world’s largest nocturnal animal exhibit and indoor swamp, featuring stalactite-studded caves, a “bottomless” cave pool, and species like fossa, naked mole-rats, and thousands of bats. This exhibit is a true highlight of the zoo and is sure to captivate visitors of all ages.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Located in Cincinnati, Ohio, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is the second oldest zoo in the United States, dating back to 1875. With 75 acres of immersive habitats and 3,000 plant species in its botanical collection, this zoo is a true gem. Accredited by both AZA and WAZA, the Cincinnati Zoo is home to over 1,800 animals representing 500-plus species and draws more than 1.2 million visitors each year. One of the zoo’s most famous residents is Fiona the hippo, who captured the hearts and imagination of Cincinnatians and people across the world when she was born prematurely in 2017. Visitors can feed giraffes in the zoo’s giraffe exhibit and get into the Christmas spirit during the zoo’s annual Festival of Lights. With so much to see and do, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and educational experience.

The Wilds

Located in southeastern Ohio’s Muskingum County, The Wilds is a 9,154-acre non-profit safari park and conservation center. Established in 1994 and operated in partnership with the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, it’s the largest wildlife conservation center in North America. Visitors can explore broad, open-range pastures aboard custom open-air safari vehicles and come face-to-face with Masai giraffes, southern white rhinos, Grevy’s zebras, American bison, scimitar-horned oryx, Bactrian camels, and more than 300 animals representing fewer than 25 species. The Wilds also features a separate 27-acre Carnivore Conservation Center, where visitors can stretch their legs and observe cheetahs and African painted dogs behind safe enclosures. With its commitment to conservation science, education, and visitor experiences, The Wilds is a true leader in the field.

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

Located in Eatonville, Washington, near the base of Mount Rainier, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is a 723-acre wildlife sanctuary. Established in 1975, the park is committed to the conservation of native Pacific Northwest species and offers immersive experiences that blend education, conservation, and outdoor exploration. The park features animal-free roaming areas, including a 435-acre expanse where visitors can observe animals such as American bison, Roosevelt elk, moose, caribou, and mountain goats in their natural habitats. This area can be explored via a guided tram tour, the self-driven Wild Drive, or the off-road Keeper Adventure Tour in a Jeep.

Zoo Atlanta

Established in 1889, Zoo Atlanta has transformed over the years and now spans 40 acres, housing over 1,000 animals representing more than 220 species. Among the highlights is the Ford African Rain Forest, home to a renowned gorilla population. This area also houses orangutans and other primates. The Living Treehouse, an extension of this habitat, offers a free-flying aviary with African birds and lemurs. With its commitment to conservation and education, Zoo Atlanta is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and engaging experience.

Bristol’s Clifton Zoo

Note: There is no Bristol’s Clifton Zoo in the original article, it seems to be an error. Removing it from the list.

Conclusion

These six zoos offer a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. From the immersive habitats and conservation efforts of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium to the wildlife viewing and outdoor exploration of The Wilds, each zoo has its own special charm and attractions. Whether you’re a seasoned animal lover or just looking for a fun and educational experience, these zoos are sure to delight. So why not plan a visit to one of these hidden gems this summer? You won’t be disappointed!