Kid Tips

Toddlers & Pre-K: The primate and aquarium exhibits are the farthest uphill and best accessed by the zoo tram that runs every 10 minutes. There is room for strollers, and the ride is just long enough to put drowsy ones to sleep.

Pre-Teens & Teens: A zoo visit might not be the most exciting event for older kids, but even they will appreciate the zoo's unique offerings, like the touch tanks (shark petting, anyone?) and the RainForest area (with more than 6,000 plants and 600 animals from Asia, Africa, and the Americas).

Planning Notes

• Bring a stroller. This is a big zoo and there's plenty of ground to traverse. Little ones will tire quickly, so come prepared with a stroller or rent one ($7 for a single, $10 for a double) from the zoo gift shop, Machaba Curios.
• Bring a cooler. Packed lunches and drinks are welcome. Pick a bench in a shaded spot and enjoy your snacks away from the busy exhibits.

Just the Facts

Hours: Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m., with extended summer hours on weekends.

Fees: Less than $10

Recommended Time: Half day

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