By Jana Tingom
We are often asked what is there to do at the Phoenix Zoo with kids, beyond enjoying the animals? Short answer, there is so much for all ages to experience! Here is a quick list, see their website for more information.
- Camel rides ($6/person)
- Feed the stingrays ($4/person)
- Pet and brush the goats (free)
- Giraffe Encounter ($6/person)
- Wall thru monkey exhibit (free)
- 4-D theatre ($5/person)
- Safari Cruiser ($6/person)
- Carousel ($3/person)
- Pedal Boats ($15)
There are also two splashpads, a playground treehouse by the stream, a newly updated cafe, a children’s farm with its own play area, and more. The Phoenix Zoo also has special events, such as the popular Zoolights, which our kids always enjoy, and special one-time exhibits, most recently an amazing animatronic dinosaur display. Their next special is about bugs!
We love our local zoo!
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January
What child doesn’t love a good zoo? And as the largest non-profit zoo in the United States, the Phoenix Zoo is a great place to go with your kids. With over 1,400 animals spread over 125 acres, and two and a half miles of walking trails, the Phoenix Zoo can keep you and your children occupied for days!
The zoo is divided into four main sections. The Arizona Trail contains animals native to the area, like coyote, Mexican wolf, bobcats, vultures, and bald eagle. When you explore the Africa Trail you’ll find many of the most popular animals found at zoos, like the African lion, tigers, giraffe, zebra, cheetah, rhino, baboon, and more. On the Tropics Trail you’ll find elephants, giant turtles, monkeys, jaguar, Komodo dragons, and an aviary of tropical birds.
Besides the fact that most kids enjoy a good zoo, the Phoenix Zoo has another thing going for it: the Children’s Trail. The Children’s Trail is a sizable portion of the zoo, with areas where you can get up extremely close to a variety of animals, including ocelot, emu, and tamarins. There’s also a large petting zoo, farm animals, and demonstrations on agriculture and farming. Other attractions at the Phoenix Zoo include Stingray Bay, a carousel of endangered animals, camel rides, a safari train, and much more.
The Zoo has a variety of camps and programs for kids and adults alike. They also have special events throughout the year, so check out their events calendar when planning your visit.
Admission is $25 for adults, and $17 for children 3-12. Operating hours change with the season, so check here for up-to-date information.
You can purchase your passes at www.pogopass.com and get access to many other local places, don’t forget to use promo code PHOENIXWITHKIDS at checkout for 50% off! That’s some big savings! Plus, that gets you access to other venues, such as the Arizona Sea Life Aquarium, and a bunch of other cool places in Arizona. Visit the Pogo Pass review for full details/restrictions.
Read our 2023 review of The Phoenix Zoo, here.
Getting there
The Phoenix Zoo is located off of Galvin Parkway in the heart of Papago Park, between McDowell and Van Buren.
The Phoenix Zoo
455 North Galvin Parkway
Phoenix, AZ 85008
Phone: 602-273-1341
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