St Louis Zoo: A Guide to the Ultimate Wildlife Experience
Are you looking for an amazing wildlife experience that you and your family can enjoy? Look no further than the St Louis Zoo, one of the most popular zoos in the United States. With over 16,000 animals from 600 species, this zoo is home to a vast array of creatures, including some of the world’s rarest and most endangered species. In this article, we will take a closer look at what makes the St Louis Zoo so special, what you can expect to see, and how to plan your visit for the ultimate experience.
History and Location
The St Louis Zoo was founded in 1910 and has been one of the most popular attractions in the city ever since. It is located in Forest Park, which is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, covering over 1,300 acres. The zoo itself covers 90 acres and is divided into several zones, including River’s Edge, The Wild, Discovery Corner, Red Rocks, and Penguin & Puffin Coast.
Exhibits and Animals
When it comes to animal exhibits, the St Louis Zoo truly has it all. With over 16,000 animals from 600 different species, this zoo offers a diverse and fascinating collection that is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
One of the most popular exhibits is Big Cat Country, which houses some of the world’s most majestic and awe-inspiring big cats, including lions, tigers, and leopards. Here, visitors can see these magnificent creatures up close and personal, watching as they roam and play in their natural habitats.
Another must-see exhibit is the Primate House, which is home to a wide variety of primates, including gorillas, chimpanzees, and orangutans. This exhibit offers a fascinating look at these intelligent and complex animals, giving visitors the opportunity to observe them as they interact with each other and their environment.
For those interested in aquatic creatures, the Sea Lion Sound exhibit is not to be missed. Here, visitors can watch as these playful and graceful animals swim and play in their expansive and carefully designed habitat.
One of the zoo’s most unique exhibits is Penguin & Puffin Coast, which features a simulated Antarctic environment complete with ice, snow, and frigid temperatures. Here, visitors can observe these fascinating birds up close and personal, watching as they waddle, swim, and interact with each other.
The River’s Edge zone is another highlight, featuring exhibits that showcase animals from the world’s great rivers, including hippos, elephants, and crocodiles. Visitors can watch as these magnificent creatures swim and play in their natural habitats, gaining a deeper appreciation for the incredible diversity of life on our planet.
And for those interested in smaller creatures, the Insectarium and Butterfly House offers a fascinating look at the world of insects and butterflies. Here, visitors can observe a wide variety of species up close and personal, learning about their unique characteristics and behaviors.
Exhibits at the St Louis Zoo offer a fascinating and unforgettable look at the incredible diversity of life on our planet. Whether you’re interested in big cats, primates, aquatic creatures, or insects, this zoo has something to offer everyone.
Attractions and Activities
The St Louis Zoo is not just a place to observe animals – it’s also a destination for entertainment and fun! With a wide range of attractions and activities, this zoo offers something for everyone, no matter what age or interest.
One of the most popular attractions is the Zooline Railroad, which takes visitors on a scenic tour through the zoo’s many exhibits. This is a great way to get an overview of everything the zoo has to offer, while enjoying a leisurely ride through the park.
Another must-see attraction is the 4-D Theater, which offers an immersive and interactive movie experience that engages all the senses. Here, visitors can watch 3-D movies with added special effects such as wind, mist, and scents, making for a truly unforgettable viewing experience.
For those looking for a bit of adventure, the High Ropes Course is sure to deliver. This challenging obstacle course takes visitors high above the ground, offering a unique and exciting way to see the zoo from a whole new perspective.
The Discovery Corner is another highlight, offering a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities designed specifically for younger visitors. Here, kids can learn about animals and nature through hands-on experiences, including petting and feeding animals, playing in the water, and climbing on the playground.
For those interested in conservation and animal welfare, the Wildcare Park offers a unique and informative look at the zoo’s efforts to protect endangered species and promote sustainable living. Visitors can learn about the zoo’s conservation programs and get involved in efforts to protect the planet and its inhabitants.
And of course, no visit to the St Louis Zoo would be complete without taking in one of the many daily animal shows and feedings. These interactive presentations offer a chance to learn more about specific species and their behaviors, while also getting an up-close look at some of the zoo’s most fascinating creatures.
The attractions and activities at the St Louis Zoo offer something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for families, animal lovers, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll through the exhibits, or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, this zoo has it all.
Planning Your Visit
When planning a visit to the St Louis Zoo, it’s important to consider parking and prices to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Thankfully, the zoo offers a variety of convenient parking options, as well as reasonable prices that make it accessible to everyone.
The zoo has two main parking lots, the North Lot and the South Lot, both of which are located near the entrance and offer easy access to the exhibits and attractions. There are also several smaller parking areas located throughout the zoo, including designated spaces for visitors with disabilities.
For those looking for even more convenience, the zoo offers a premium parking option known as the Adventure Pass. This pass provides visitors with guaranteed parking in the North Lot, as well as admission to several of the zoo’s popular attractions, including the Zooline Railroad, 4-D Theater, and Children’s Zoo.
As for prices, admission to the St Louis Zoo is completely free, making it a great destination for families and individuals on a budget. However, some of the attractions and activities within the zoo do require additional fees. For example, the Zooline Railroad costs $8 for adults and $6 for children, while the 4-D Theater is $6 per person.
The High Ropes Course is another popular attraction that comes with a fee, costing $12 per person. The Children’s Zoo is also an additional $4 per person, and some of the animal shows and feedings require tickets that range from $3 to $10.
Despite these additional fees, the St Louis Zoo remains an affordable and accessible destination for visitors of all ages and interests. With a wide range of parking options and reasonable prices, it’s easy to see why this zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city.
Hotels near the St Louis Zoo
If you’re planning a visit to the St Louis Zoo, you’ll want to make sure you have comfortable and convenient accommodations nearby. Luckily, there are plenty of hotels located just a short distance from the zoo, with a variety of options to suit any budget or preference.
One popular choice is the Moonrise Hotel, which is located less than a mile from the zoo and offers a unique and stylish atmosphere. The hotel features modern and colorful decor, as well as a rooftop bar and restaurant with stunning views of the city.
For those looking for more traditional accommodations, the Drury Inn & Suites St Louis Forest Park is a great option. This hotel is located just minutes from the zoo and offers spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a range of amenities such as a fitness center and indoor pool.
The Parkway Hotel is another popular choice, located just a short distance from the zoo and offering comfortable rooms and a complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant and bar, as well as a fitness center and business center.
For those on a budget, there are also several affordable hotels located near the zoo, such as the Red Roof Inn St Louis – Forest Park/Hampton Ave. This hotel offers basic but comfortable accommodations at an affordable price, with amenities such as free Wi-Fi and complimentary coffee in the lobby.
As for pricing, the cost of hotels near the St Louis Zoo can vary widely depending on the season and the specific accommodations you choose. However, there are plenty of options available at a range of price points, making it easy to find a hotel that fits your budget.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious getaway or a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of hotels located near the St Louis Zoo to suit your needs. With comfortable accommodations just a short distance from one of the city’s most popular attractions, it’s easy to make the most of your visit to this iconic zoo.
Restaurants near the St Louis Zoo
After a long day exploring the St Louis Zoo, there’s nothing quite like sitting down for a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants located nearby. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a leisurely dinner, there are plenty of dining options available to suit any taste or budget.
One popular choice is the Boathouse at Forest Park, which is located just a short distance from the zoo and offers stunning views of the lake. The restaurant features a menu of classic American fare, such as burgers, salads, and seafood, as well as a range of cocktails and beers.
Another great option is Cafe Kudu, which is located right inside the zoo and offers a variety of sandwiches, wraps, and salads to enjoy on the go. The restaurant also offers picnic baskets filled with snacks and drinks, making it the perfect choice for a day spent exploring the zoo.
For those looking for something a bit more upscale, there’s the Clayton’s Restaurant. This elegant eatery is located just a short drive from the zoo and offers a menu of fine dining options, such as steak, seafood, and pasta. The restaurant also features a full bar and an extensive wine list.
If you’re in the mood for pizza, look no further than Pi Pizzeria. This local chain has several locations throughout the city, including one just a short distance from the zoo. The restaurant offers a range of delicious pizzas with creative toppings, as well as salads and sandwiches.
Of course, there are also plenty of fast food and chain restaurants located near thIe zoo, such as Subway and McDonald’s. No matter what type of cuisine you’re in the mood for, there’s sure to be a restaurant located near the St Louis Zoo that will satisfy your hunger.
It’s easy to make the most of your visit to the zoo by enjoying a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants located nearby.
The Zoo is awesome!
The St Louis Zoo is an incredible destination that offers a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience. With its vast collection of animals, interactive exhibits, and fun activities for all ages, it’s no wonder that this zoo is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. So why not plan a visit and see for yourself what makes the St Louis Zoo so special?
