Oklahoma City Zoo

For more than 100 years, the Oklahoma City Zoo has been dedicated to contributing to the understanding and preservation of the Earth's natural resources by providing educational experiences for all of their visitors. By offering a variety of animal exhibits, rides, educational opportunities and other hands-on learning programs, the Oklahoma City Zoo serves as a significant contributor to community appreciation of animals, plants and planet Earth. 

There are many ways to enjoy a day at the Oklahoma City Zoo. Take a ride on the Safari Tram—a narrated riding tour through the zoo. Learn interesting facts about the plants and animals you’ll see. Tram rides run approximately 25 minutes long ($3-$4). A classic favorite is the Endangered Species Carousel—overlooking the Zoo Lake, the carousel offers an adventurous themed take on a traditional ride ($2).

Looking for something a little more physically interactive? Try the Swan Paddleboats and enjoy a ride around the Zoo Lake with a partner ($7 per boat, 30 min ride). Then, take a load off and enjoy the Sea Lion Show. The show features California sea lions and is offered several times each day ($1-$2). Of course, rides aren’t the only way to explore the Zoo—self guided walking tours are also fun!

While visiting the zoo, be sure to take a journey through the tropical rainforest and explore the Great EscApe exhibit, there you’ll see gorillas, chimps and orangutans as they swing across a habitat of waterfalls, rocks and pools amidst a tropical forest. Or, check out the Butterfly Garden—home to a variety of winged beauties including the Monarch, Painted Lady, Giant Swallowtail and more. 

One of the newest attractions at the Oklahoma City Zoo is the Children’s Zoo. Children can explore with all of their five senses and excite their imaginations while playing in the interactive Children’s Zoo exhibits including the spider and squirrel monkeys, the barnyard and the Waterway splash space—a great place to cool down.

A great way to support the zoo and get involved in their conservation efforts is to attend one of the many fundraising events each year include Bowling for Rhinos and Gorilla Golf—all proceeds of these community events directly support the zoo animals.

A trip to the zoo is always a fun way to spend a family day, and the Oklahoma City Zoo doesn’t disappoint. There are several restaurants and concession stands throughout the park for all of your dining and snacking needs. Also, be sure check and out the Zoo store for a wild souvenir to remember your trip.

HelloOklahomaCity Tip: During summer, the Oklahoma City Zoo offers a variety of summer camp programs for children of all ages and includes tours, animal visits, crafts, games and fun! Each week offers a different theme and registration is required ($85 per week). For more information on current events at the Oklahoma City Zoo and to register your campers for the summer, visit the website or check out the Zoo's Facebook page.

 

- by Jennifer Pruett, Oklahoma City Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Jennifer Pruett

A self proclaimed “queen of everything," Jennifer is a writer, planner and passionate lover of making exciting events extra special. As a creative mother of two she loves art, music, family, friends, exotic cuisine and exploring new areas of self improvement. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies from the University of Oklahoma and has been writing restaurant and attraction reviews in the Phoenix Metro area since January, 2009.