Good-for-Kids Rating

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Memphis Zoo Description

Polar bears, panda bears, and meerkats, oh my! The Memphis Zoo allows some seriously up-close interaction with its inhabitants, from the polar bears chilling out in their icy pool to lions who often lounge just a few feet away from a fascinated audience. The panda exhibit is also fun, with pandas LeLe and YaYa frolicking in their outdoor play area. Everyone will love the adjacent carousel with its intricately-carved Chinese animals.

Kid Tips

Babies: Smooth strolling equals easy riding for babes, and practically guarantees a good nap.

Toddlers & Pre-K: Face time with the polar bears and big cats is a smash; as is watching the seals and visiting the farm, where there's a train and petting zoo.

School-Age Kids: It's the unusual zoo residents that grab the elementary school set, from the giant anaconda in the reptile house to the antics of the meerkats in their habitat.

Pre-Teens & Teens: They'll never own up to it, but they still love the zoo and everything about it -- especially the sea lion show, riding the carousel, and pondering the polar bears.

Planning Notes

Map it out. The exhibits meander, with the China and NW Territory areas being the most popular but least accessible. So keep the zoo map handy, and be sure to arrive early for scheduled feedings.

Dress for the weather. In summer, it's the blistering heat; in winter, the chilly air. But in every season, there are a few places to cool down or warm up, depending on your needs. Be sure to pace the visit so a stop at the Cat House Café provides a timely break from the elements.

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