“free fun!”
Located on 90 acres in Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo is home to more than 603 species of animals, many of them rare and endangered. It is one of the few free zoos in the nation and has been named #1 zoo by Zagat Survey’s U.S. Family Travel Guide in association with arenting magazine. The Zoo annually attracts three million visitors, who can see 14,840 wild animals—including the thousands of leafcutters and butterflies at the Zoo. Since its 1910 founding, the Zoo has been renowned for its beautiful naturalistic exhibits, its diverse collection of animals and its innovative approaches to animal management, wildlife conservation, research and education. The Zoo’s Education Department staff—the largest among the nation’s zoos—offers programs designed to help visitors of all ages and abilities learn through experience, involvement and discovery. Of the three million visitors hosted annually by the Saint Louis Zoo, approximately 1.7 million visitors interacted with an Educational Interpreter, Zoo Docent or Zookeeper who provided educational experiences and information.
Had such a great time here! This was my daughters and I first time here; we did get a little confused about parking but we managed it and ended up realizing how big the area was and what was all surrounding it! Literally could spend an entire day here but we only had time for a little bit. Definitely will come back!
Great zoo and free! Lots to see so make sure you grab a map. Carousel and children’s zoo are free the 1st hour everyday. Also, lots of indoor exhibits for hot days.
Without a doubt, one of the best zoos in the country. Free admission and super friendly staff. Could spend a couple days there easily. We went during the week but they were decorated for Boo at the Zoo on the weekends. Can’t wait to go back!
Simply put, the best zoo in the country. Great exhibits with multiple viewing points that get you very close to the animals. Great interaction opportunities. Plus, general admission is free.
The zoo will not disappoint. It's nicely laid out, clean, and the sea lions are hilarious. You do have to pay for parking and on nice days it can get a bit scare. You can always park out in the Forrest Park area and walk or over by the Planetarium (its a bit of a walk, but during the summer there's a trolly that shuttles people around the park).
Best free zoo ever. Parking is rough, it pays to plan ahead and have a backup plan.
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Saint Louis Zoo
Hours
- Mon - Thu: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Sun, Fri, Sat: 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
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Parking
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Pets Allowed
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Restrooms
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Wifi
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Wheelchair Accessible
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Credit Cards Accepted
Parking
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