oklahoma city zoo tour

The Oklahoma City Zoo

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Often ranked as one of the top 10 zoos in the United States, the Oklahoma City Zoo is also the oldest in the Southwest. With over 100 landscaped areas and a number of exotic animals, the OKC Zoo features special exhibits such as the Cat Forest, Great EscAPE, Butterfly Garden, Island Life, Elephant Habitat, and Aquatics.

In addition, there are special shows, concessions, tours, outreach programs, rides, and picnic areas. The Zoo Amphitheater is also a treat, offering outside live music.

Hours of Operation

The Oklahoma City Zoo is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location & Directions

2101 NE 50th Street Oklahoma City , OK 73111 The OKC Zoo is located just south of  Remington Park  in the area known as the Adventure District.  From I-35, exit westbound at NE 50th. From I-44, exit southbound at Martin Luther King.

Additional Services

• Single strollers
• Double strollers
• Wheelchairs
• Electric convenience vehicles
• Electric convenience vehicles with canopy
• Safari cart (2-hour tour, reservations 72 hours in advance required)

Strollers, wheelchairs, and electronic vehicles are rented on a first come-first served basis.

Special Attractions

• Wild Encounters (sea lion, bear, elephant shows)
• Feed Lorikeets
• Elephant Express Shuttle
• Centennial Choo Choo
• Giraffe Feeding Platform
• Stingray Bay

Food and More

• Canopy Food Court - A 300 seat indoor restaurant with many food choices such as pizza, hamburgers, hot dogs and Mexican.
• Multiple Cafes - ice cream, nachos, chips, and candy.
• Catering - catering and facility rental is available.
• Extras - ATM, disability access, a first aid station, nursing and diaper changing stations and Lost and Found services available.
• Rules - pets, roller blades, skates, frisbees, glass containers, alcoholic beverages, and straws are not permitted.

Exhibits and Features

• Asian-themed Elephant Habitat : Opened in 2011, the $13 million dollar elephant habitat is the largest exhibit ever built at the zoo, spanning nine and a half acres. The state-of-the-art exhibit features three outdoor yards, pools, a waterfall, a demonstration pavilion and more.
• Children’s Zoo : Opened in 2010, the 2.5-acre Children's Zoo allows kids the opportunity to "explore, touch, and immerse themselves in a natural environment that will stimulate their imagination, encourage exploration and give them a greater appreciation for nature."
• Oklahoma Trails : Opened on March 10, 2007, the Oklahoma Trails feature natural habitats and over 100 Oklahoma native species.
• Cat Forest / Lion Overlook : The 4.2-acre habitat features lions, tigers, snow leopards and a variety of wild cats .
• Great EscAPE : On 6 acres, this exhibit features gorillas, orangutans, and chimpanzees in a tropical forest.
• Aquatics : With marine life from all around the world, the Aquatics exhibit contains over 1500 creatures.
• Butterfly Garden : The 20,000 square foot exhibit contains over 15,000 plants with the aim of attracting butterflies.
• Island Life : From the Caribbean to Madagascar to the Philippines, the Island Life exhibits feature snakes, birds, turtles, frogs, reptiles... the list goes on and on.
• Sea Lion Show : A fantastic experience for the whole family, the show features sea lions and birds in a crowd-pleasing tandem.
• Zoo Amphitheatre : With a number of outside performances, music and much more, the Amphitheater offers a unique entertainment option.

Nearby Hotels and Lodging

• Best Western Plus Broadway 6101 N Santa Fe Avenue Approximately 2 miles from the Oklahoma City Zoo
• Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites 6200 N Robinson Ave. Less than 3 miles from the Oklahoma City Zoo
• Courtyard by Marriott 1515 NW Expressway Less than 4 miles from the Oklahoma City Zoo

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by Experience OKC | Jan 4, 2023 | Attractions & Activities | 0 comments

Oklahoma City Zoo

Do you love animals and nature? If so, then a visit to the Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Gardens should be on your list of places to visit. Situated in Oklahoma City, this zoo is the perfect destination for a day of fun and exploration.

With more than 1,900 animals, representing more than 400 species, this zoo offers something for everyone. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights of the zoo and what you can expect when you plan your own adventure!

What’s so special about the Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Gardens?

The Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Gardens is truly a special place. The zoo consists of nine distinct areas, each with its own unique attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.

From the Sanctuary Asia exhibit, which features Asian elephants and lush tropical rainforest plantings to the Children’s Zoo where you can interact with nature and animals such as Galápagos tortoises, flamingos, monkeys, and lorikeets, there’s something for everyone.

Here are some highlights of the Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Gardens:

• Sanctuary Asia Exhibit featuring Asian elephants and lush tropical rainforest plantings
• Children’s Zoo with interactive exhibits such as Galápagos tortoises, flamingos, monkeys, and lorikeets
• Great EscAPE exhibit exploring a world of gorillas, orangutans, and chimpanzees
• Cat Forest/Lion Overlook with African lions and tigers
• Oklahoma Trails features native animals such as black bears, alligators, bison, and over two dozen snakes
• Aquaticus Exhibit with California sea lions
• Butterfly Garden where visitors can witness fluttering butterflies in an enclosed habitat

Fun Adventures & Activities

In addition to exploring and learning about animals, there are a variety of adventure activities available at the Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Gardens.

Visitors can explore the zoo on a camel ride, hop on an Elephant Express Tram, feed the Explorikeets, feed the giraffes from the Giraffe Feeding Platform, watch a rhino feeding demonstration, explore Stingray Bay, ride the Endangered Species Carousel, and take a Safari Cart Tour. Each activity offers an interactive experience for all ages to help make your visits to the zoo unforgettable.

Camel Rides

Elephant Express Tram

The Elephant Express tram is a guided tour of the zoo, allowing visitors to learn more about the animals and habitats in an engaging and comfortable atmosphere. The trams run every half hour, and visitors can hop on and off as they explore the zoo.

Explorikeet Feeding

Visitors to the zoo may feed some of the Explorikeets in their habitat with nectar provided by keepers at the Explorikeet Center. The center also provides educational talks about the birds, their habitats, and their behaviors.

Giraffe Feeding Platform

At the Giraffe Feeding Platform, visitors can observe the giraffes in their habitat while feeding them from a raised platform. Keepers will provide information about the animals and answer any questions that visitors may have.

Rhino Feedings

Stingray Bay

Stingray Bay allows visitors to get a close-up view of the stingrays in their habitat, as well as touch and feed them. Keepers are available to provide information about the animals, their habitats, and their behaviors.

Endangered Species Carousel

The Endangered Species Carousel is a fun ride for children of all ages that takes visitors on a journey of endangered and threatened species from around the world. Visitors can learn more about the animals and their habitats through interactive displays located throughout the ride.

Safari Cart Tour

The Safari Cart Tour is a guided tour that allows visitors to explore the zoo in an open-air cart, giving them the opportunity to observe animals up close. The tour is accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will provide interesting facts about the animals and their habitats.

Some Things to Know Before You Go

Before you plan your trip to the Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Gardens, there are a few things you should know. Here are some tips and reminders to keep in mind before you go:

The zoo is open from 9 am-5 pm and 5.30 pm-11 pm daily, but the hours may vary on certain days and during special events such as Animal Encounters, Keeper Talks, and other special activities. So, be sure to check the zoo’s website before visiting.

Admission Fees

Admission fees are $12 for adults and $9 for children ages 3-11. Seniors 62 years and older pay $9. Parking is available for a fee of  $0.75/30 minutes and can be paid at the entrance gate.

Food and Drink

Picnic areas are available and visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks when possible. It is also important to remember that food and drinks are not allowed within the animal exhibits.

Accessibility

The zoo is wheelchair accessible, but please note that the terrain is hilly, so those with mobility issues should be aware. Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent at the Admission Gate.

Photography and Video

Most exhibits may be photographed and videos are permitted in certain areas, however, please check with attendants beforehand as some exhibits may not allow photography.

Other Facilities

Restrooms and water fountains are available throughout the zoo, and visitors can also participate in a variety of educational programs, camps, classes, private tours, and event rental spaces for special occasions.

How long does it take to go through the OKC Zoo?

The amount of time it takes to go through the OKC Zoo varies from person to person, depending on how long you would like to spend at each exhibit and whether or not you are participating in any of the adventure activities. Generally speaking, however, it will take 2-3 hours to explore all the major exhibits and have a good overview of the zoo. Additional time should be allotted if you intend to participate in any of the adventure activities, such as camel rides or feeding demonstrations.

Can I take a backpack to OKC Zoo?

Yes, you can take a backpack into the OKC Zoo as long as it adheres to the zoo’s size and bag policy. All bags are subject to search at security checkpoints. For more information on what is allowed in the zoo, please refer to the OKC Zoo website.

How to get to the Oklahoma City Zoo

2000 Remington Pl, Oklahoma City, OK 73111 (405) 424-3344 https://www.okczoo.org/

Our Conclusion:

The OKC Zoo is a great place for visitors of all ages to explore and learn about animals from around the world. With numerous adventure activities, educational talks, and feeding demonstrations, there are many fun ways to make your visit unforgettable.

Whether you’re looking for an interactive experience or a leisurely stroll through the park, the OKC Zoo has something for everyone. Be sure to plan your visit ahead of time so that you can take advantage of all the zoo has to offer.

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Visit Oklahoma City Zoo

More than 1,400 animals live in the Oklahoma City Zoo, which spans 120 acres (49 hectares) in the city’s Adventure District. Go on a whirlwind trip around the world when you come face to face with exotic creatures and stroll through the botanical garden. Check out live presentations, zookeeper talks and exciting rides suitable for visitors of all ages.

One of the zoo’s highlights is the Sanctuary Asia section, which features Asian-themed habitats, pools, a waterfall and a boardwalk. Make your way to the tropical rainforests of the Great EscAPE section, which contains gorillas, orangutans and chimpanzees.

Go island hopping at the Island Life exhibit. You might see Galapagos tortoises, Caribbean flamingos and Abaco Island boas. Visit Aquaticus, where more than 1,500 marine creatures live in specially designed tanks. California sea lions are the stars of the show at this enclosure.

Follow the Oklahoma Trails for a showcase of native wildlife. See black bears, alligators, beavers and a variety of reptiles and birds here. Experience the tranquility of the Butterfly Garden, where rare and exotic insects flutter around the tropical foliage.

Connect the kids to nature at the Children’s Zoo, which features flamingos, goats, monkeys and colorful lorikeets. Children will also enjoy the Jungle Gym Playground and the carousel ride. Take a trip on the swan-shaped paddleboats or climb aboard the Safari Voyage. Ride the Safari Tram or the 1863 replica Centennial Choo Choo for easy access between exhibits. Check the zoo’s program to find out about presentations, feeding times and amphitheater shows. The plaza near the zoo’s entrance has shops and restaurants.

The Oklahoma Zoo is located in the Adventure District northeast of the city. Admission is discounted for children, seniors and military. Park on site for free or take the bus from downtown Oklahoma City. The zoo is open daily and has a seasonal schedule of animal-related experiences.

Plan a trip to see Oklahoma City Zoo

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Reviews of Oklahoma City Zoo

5/5 - excellent.

Zoo has improved quite a bit since I was last there.

2/5 - Disappointing

Didn't see very many animals and most of the landscaping was so thick you couldn't see the animals very well at all.

The zoo map is terrible, there's no good pathway through the zoo without backtracking. Don't waste your money on the more expensive passes.

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Saddle up and explore this museum dedicated to the American West, where artworks and displays celebrate American Indian and cowboy culture.

Oklahoma History Center

From ancient Native American nations to the cultural diversity you see today, this museum presents the long history and heritage of the State of Oklahoma.

The Zoo Amphitheatre

You can get tickets for a performance at The Zoo Amphitheatre during your trip to Oklahoma City. Experience the area's fascinating museums or attend a sporting event.

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Oklahoma City Zoo

• Facilities 4.0
• Atmosphere 3.0

Part zoo, part botanical gardens, the Oklahoma City Zoo is a hit with recent travelers for its large size, manageable layout and variety of exhibits. You'll find the usual suspects here, including bears, lions and giraffes, but the Oklahoma City Zoo also boasts an exhibit unique to the area – Oklahoma Trails. This naturalistic habitat features more than 100 different animal species native to Oklahoma (around 800 individual animals) and 11 unique life zones special to Oklahoma, including the grassy Black Mesa and the rolling Ozark Highlands. You'll also find a 25-foot replica of Turner Falls, found at Big Rivers. In summer 2018, the zoo is expected to open a nearly 7-acre sanctuary for endangered animals from Asia, including elephants, red pandas and  Komodo dragons, among other animals. You can also fork over a bit more cash for the zoo's many rides and animal encounters, including giraffe feedings and stingray touching experiences.

Recent visitors were impressed with the size and scope of the zoo and recommended adding this to your OKC itinerary if you've got young kids in tow. Several reviewers suggested allotting several hours to seeing all of the zoo's exhibits. The only gripe among travelers? The high cost of food at the on-site cafes.

You'll find the Oklahoma City Zoo northeast of downtown, nearby Lincoln Park. Along with the zoo's attractions, it also houses several gift shops and cafes. The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission costs $11 for adults (ages 12 to 64) and $8 for seniors (65 and older) and kids between the ages of 3 and 11. Fees for select zoo activities and rides, such as the carousel and the daily giraffe feeding demonstration, cost extra. Parking is free. For more information, visit the website .

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More Best Things To Do in Oklahoma City

#1 Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum

April 19, 1995, was one of those days in America's history when time stopped. A bomb decimated the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building at 9:02 a.m., killing 168 people including 19 children in its blast. This museum and memorial were raised in honor of the people affected by the domestic terrorist attack. The museum offers visitors a chronological self-guided and interactive tour separated into 10 chapters, starting with the history of the site all the way through the bombing's lasting impact and what it means for our country's future. Along the way, you'll see archived news footage, hear survivors (and surviving family members) tell their stories, and see artifacts recovered from the event, including  Timothy McVeigh’s getaway car. 

Outside the museum, you'll find a memorial honoring the victims, survivors and rescuers sitting on the grounds where the building once stood. There are many features to the outdoor memorial, but the Field of Empty Chairs is perhaps the most moving, according to recent visitors. Located on the footprint of the Murrah Building are 168 chairs made to represent all the lives lost that day. Each chair details the name of a person, as well as the floor they were on. There are 19 small chairs to represent the children who perished in the bombing.

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In OKC for Thunder playoffs? Here are 7 must-see Oklahoma City locations

If you're visiting Oklahoma City for the upcoming NBA Playoffs, you might be wondering what there is to do before or after games.

The Paycom Center, home of the Oklahoma City Thunder, is located in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City and is near several popular attractions so you can have fun without traveling too far.

Here are several things you can do while you're visiting town for the playoffs, many of which are easily accessible using the Oklahoma City Streetcar .

Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame

The Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame honors Oklahoma athletes by inducting them into the hall of fame and is also home to the Jim Thorpe Museum .

The museum contains artifacts and memorabilia from the culture, accomplishments and achievements of legendary athlete and Oklahoma Native, Jim Thorpe.

Other artifacts and memorabilia included in the museum come from Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame Inductees, Oklahoma Tennis Hall of Fame Inductees, and Paycom Jim Thorpe Award and Warren Spahn Award Recipients.

Scissortail Park

Just across the street from the Paycom Center is Oklahoma City's 70-acre downtown Scissortail Park .

Home to beautiful landscaping, a boathouse, lake, and a lawn for concerts and events, Scissortail Park is the perfect place for a break outdoors or a picnic.

In the lower section of the park you'll find a soccer pitch along with pickleball, futsal and basketball courts.

The OKC Thunder will begin each home game of the NBA Playoffs with Thunder UP in the Park. The free pregame event at Scissortail Park plaza (S. Robinson and OKC Boulevard) will begin three hours prior to every playoff home game and conclude 30 minutes before tipoff.

Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

The Oklahoma City Thunder usually brings its players to tour the  Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum before they play their first game for the Thunder.

The memorial and museum tells the story of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, how the city recovered and what lessons can be learned from the tragedy.

The  Field of Empty Chairs  and the Reflection Pool take the place of where the Alfred P. Murrah Federal building once stood, memorializing the 168 who lost their lives in the bombing.

Myriad Botanical Gardens

Also across from Paycom Center is Oklahoma City's Myriad Botanical Gardens, where you can explore the indoor Crystal Bridge Conservatory for $10.50 or roam the gardens surrounding the bridge at no cost.

Bricktown Water Taxi

If you want to visit one of Oklahoma City's most popular tourist spots, take a cruise on the Bricktown Water Taxi to learn more about the area and get dropped off at one of Bricktown's many restaurants.

First Americans Museum

Located along the Oklahoma River and near the crossroads of Interstates 35, 40, 235 and 44 is Oklahoma City's  First Americans Museum . The  museum is dedicated to sharing the collective histories  of the 39 federally recognized tribes in the state of Oklahoma.

Visitors can explore the cultural diversity of the distinctive tribes and, for many of the tribes now residing in Oklahoma, learn what the process of removal from their ancestral homelands was like 200 years ago.

Oklahoma City Zoo

If you want to venture outside of downtown, visit the Oklahoma City Zoo to see the newly-opened Expedition Africa.

Across an impressive 130 acres, you can see more than 500 species which call places all over the globe home.

Blue Zoo Oklahoma City

Find out what blue zoo in oklahoma city is like.

It’s true that Oklahoma City is a bit of a drive from the nearest ocean—but you can pretend you’re visiting this peaceful Pacific-inspired underwater world when you spend the day at Blue Zoo! Enjoy sea life up close and personal when you touch the velvety backs of stingrays, see six-foot sharks swim past, or discover a starfish in the touch pool. The educational experiences offered within our interactive aquarium in Oklahoma City will provide entertainment for your entire family so dive in today.

One of our most popular attractions, and rightly so, these water puppies love to be touched and fed. Access to this and all of our exhibits are included in your admission price. Feeding tokens optional.

You can experience the beauty and wonder of these amazing creatures at Blue Zoo! Check these guys out!

How often do you get to step right into the living environment of these intelligent, social friends? Access to this and all of our exhibits are included in your admission price. Feeding tokens optional.

Snakes, tegu, monitors, bearded dragons and more in an interactive environment. So many of our reptiles are rehomed so the size, number and variety of our reptiles may vary by location. We take great pride in rehoming, rehabilitating and providing medical attention to a large variety of animals. Access to this and all of our exhibits are included in your admission price. Feeding tokens optional.

Saltwater creatures!

No aquarium is complete without a whole host of interesting and amazing saltwater creatures! Ours includes clownfish, seahorses, jellyfish, angelfish, eel, lionfish and more! You can even touch urchins, shrimp and crabs! Come check it out!

Fresh Water Center!

A family favorite, the Fresh Water Center includes the River Giant Tank, home to some of the largest freshwater fish! You’ll also find archer fish, an electric eel, beautiful discus and axolotl. So many of our fish, especially in are River Giant Tank, are rehomed so the size, number and variety of fish may vary by location. We take great pride in rehoming, rehabilitating and providing medical attention to a wide variety of animals at Blue Zoo.

Interactive Play!

We take fun, education and play to a whole new level with water play tables and a pirate ship, right inside of Blue Zoo! We’re more than an aquarium, more than a zoo!

Buy Annual & Daily Passes

Visit the interactive aquarium, BlueZoo! Your Daily Admission Pass gives you access to all animal exhibits! Or choose one of our great priced Annual Passes for full access, all year long.

Celebrations & Birthday Parties

Come join the fun and celebrate with us! From Birthday Parties to Private Parties, even after hours options, we have it all. Come see what we have to offer here at BlueZoo!

Fun & Educational Field Trips

Looking for fun things to do with your students? What better environment to educate and inspire children, than a hands-on, interactive aquarium?

Longtime OKC venue adds another summer show for after its renovations are done: What to know

Oklahoma City's storied Zoo Amphitheatre has added another concert to its summer show schedule.

R&B legends and Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Isley Brothers will perform live July 20 with special guests The Commodores and The Spinners at the venerable venue at the Oklahoma City Zoo.

The 90-year-old outdoor stage is undergoing infrastructure and facilities updates before this year's outdoor concert season begins, with a focus on retaining the amphitheater's history and integrity.

Last month, it was revealed that the Zoo Amphitheatre has brought on a seasoned local management team with the backing of national partners SaveLive to produce the 2024 concert season and beyond. SaveLive also manages the OKC venues The Criterion, Tower Theatre, Beer City Music Hall and Ponyboy.

What other acts are playing OKC's Zoo Amphitheatre this summer?

With the renovations, The Isley Brothers' July 20 concert is the earliest show slated so far on the Zoo Amp's summer schedule, which includes:

• July 20: "Shout" hitmakers The Isley Brothers with special guests The Commodores and The Spinners
• Aug. 2: Ice Cube and his "Legends of Hip Hop Tour" featuring E-40 and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
• Aug. 3: Grammy winners Blues Traveler and platinum-selling rockers Big Head Todd and the Monsters
• Aug. 24: British New Wave stalwarts Howard Jones and ABC , along with platinum-selling Brit-funk band Haircut One Hundred
• Sept. 1: Reggae rockers Dirty Heads and Slightly Stoopid will bring to the Zoo Amphitheatre
• Sept. 8: “The Distance" hitmakers Cake

When do tickets to The Isley Brothers at OKC's Zoo Amphitheatre go on sale?

Tickets to the newly announced Isley Brothers concert go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 26 at https://www.prekindle.com/events/zoo-amphitheatre .

For more information on the Zoo Amp's upcoming events, go to http://www.okczooamp.com , facebook.com/okczooamp and instagram.com/okczooamp .

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Longtime OKC venue adds another summer show for after its renovations are done: What to know

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Newsletter signup, visitor guide, okc zoo announces 2025 conservation travel program destinations to indonesia, sri lanka and zimbabwe.

Experience wildlife and wild places abroad with the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden’s Conservation Travel Program! In 2025, the OKC Zoo, in partnership with Safari Professionals, is hosting three different conservation travel experiences to Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, and inviting Oklahomans to come along on these trips of a lifetime!

“We want Oklahomans to explore more of the world with us,” said Dr. Dwight Lawson, OKC Zoo’s executive director/CEO. “Together with Safari Professionals, we have curated adventures that are memorable and immersive with unique conservation experiences. As travelers encounter the rich biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural treasures of each destination, our hope is they are inspired to become champions for protecting wildlife and wild places.”

The first of the Zoo’s three conservation travel opportunities is an exclusive 12-night immersion into Indonesia, from June 8 through 20, 2025. This is the Zoo’s first excursion to Indonesia and will provide travelers with extraordinary cultural and wildlife encounters experienced through boat journeys and walking excursions encompassing several islands. Guests will discover exotic, endangered species in their native habitats including Asian elephants and orangutans, and explore the famous pink beaches of Komodo Island, home to the largest lizards on Earth, Komodo dragons. The trip, limited to 14 guests of all ages, includes accommodations at six luxury lodges providing the ideal setting for relaxation and creating memorable moments while immersed in nature! 

For those dreaming of a destination with startling beauty, rich history, and fascinating wildlife–Sri Lanka awaits! The OKC Zoo is thrilled to offer a brand-new travel opportunity to the island nation of Sri Lanka from July 10 through 24, 2025. This adventure-filled trip is limited to 12 guests and includes extended stays in six cities allowing travelers quality time to explore stunning landscapes and celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites and, of course, connect with wildlife. Sri Lanka is home to a variety of primates, leopards, sloth bears, an array of birds and large populations of Asian elephants. This is the ultimate trip for elephant fans as guests will observe and learn how the Zoo is working with local groups to conserve this endangered and beloved species. In fact, the Oklahoma City Zoo is the only Association of Zoos and Aquariums member doing conservation work anywhere in Sri Lanka. Adventurers will also find themselves relaxing and recharging in some of Sri Lanka’s most luxurious and iconic hotels.

The expeditions continue with the Zoo’s third and final travel destination: Zimbabwe. Don’t miss this epic wildlife safari to Zimbabwe spanning 10 days and nine nights, August 11 through 20, 2025. Wildlife enthusiasts will be in awe of Zimbabwe, one of Africa’s most exciting safari destinations, as they take in incredible views of lions, elephants, African painted dogs, cheetahs, hyenas, hippos and more! Guests will also explore some of Africa’s most iconic natural treasures including Matobo National Park, Hwange National Park and the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Following exciting days out on safari, travelers return to top-rated accommodations with breathtaking views, exceptional amenities and dining. This trip is limited to 12 guests.

Inviting wildlife enthusiasts on safari to Zimbabwe aligns with the OKC Zoo’s anxiously anticipated opening of Expedition Africa, the Zoo’s largest new habitat expansion in its 122-year history. Set to officially open on March 26, the new 12-acre project will provide guests with more immersive experiences and larger habitats for animals native to the African continent including giraffes, wildebeests, ostriches, meerkats, African painted dogs, cheetahs, lemurs, honey badgers and more.

For adventurers wanting to get away this year, the OKC Zoo has limited spots remaining for a Costa Rica excursion. Join the OKC Zoo from July 5 through 13, 2024 for this 8-night safari to discover the incredible biodiversity of Costa Rica which literally means “rich coast” and is home to 5% of the planet’s biodiversity. Over the course of this trip, travelers will discover wildlife along the beaches, in the ocean and in the mountains including whales, sea turtles, birds, butterflies and so much more.

OKC Zoo supports conversation initiatives and partners around the world with funds from its Round Up for Conservation program. Guests are encouraged to donate their spare change when purchasing admission tickets, or when buying food or beverages at the OKC Zoo. By “rounding up” purchases, Zoo visitors have contributed over $1 million since the program’s inception in 2011.

These amazing travel opportunities are offered by the Oklahoma City Zoo in partnership with Safari Professionals–a wildlife conservation travel company with over 35 years of designing and conducting unique adventures in wildlife destinations throughout the world. To learn more about these trips including prices, locations, amenities, and travel protocols visit www.okczoo.org/travel .

Interested in learning more about these travel experiences? The OKC Zoo is hosting a “Conservation Travel Night” Tuesday, February 13, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at its Rosser Conservation Education Center Auditorium. At this informal gathering, Zoo representatives will describe these trips in greater detail and answer all of your questions. Attendees should park by and enter through the education center located at the east end of the Zoo’s parking lot.

The Oklahoma City Zoo is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily with the last entry no later than 4 p.m. Guests are encouraged to purchase advance Zoo admission at okczoo.org/tickets  for faster access. Located at the crossroads of I-44 and I-35, the OKC Zoo is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the American Alliance of Museums, and Oklahoma City’s Adventure District. Zoo admission is $16 for adults and $13 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children two and under are admitted free. Membership has its perks! As a ZOOfriends member of the Oklahoma City Zoo, enjoy free admission all year-long, plus many additional benefits and discounts. You will also be supporting the Zoo’s animal family, education programming and conservation initiatives both locally and globally. Join or renew today at www.okczoo.org/membership . 

Stay connected with the Zoo on Facebook , X , Instagram , Threads , Linktree  and TikTok , and by visiting our blog  stories. To learn more about Zoo happenings, call (405) 424-3344 or visit okczoo.org .