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Nashville Zoo at Grassmere Description

Recently renovated and with new exhibits, the Nashville Zoo has become one of the country's "best zoos" in the past few years. Here you can view African elephants and Red River Hogs close up, watch the antics of African wild dogs, and feed Lorikeets from your hand. Thanks to innovative exhibitions like a 14-foot catwalk in the giraffe barn and an "all-access," behind-the-scenes tour, this zoo allows kids to get up close and personal in ways they never have before. The merry-go-round, which features unusual animals such as anteaters, flamingos, and bongos, has to be seen, even by kids who claim they're "too old" for such things.

Kid Tips

Babies: A stroller is essential because the distances are too far for short legs. You can rent single or double strollers for a small fee.

Toddlers & Pre-K: Don't miss Critter Encounters, a petting zoo featuring goats, toucans, and other animals.

School-Age Kids: They'll love the Jungle Gym, a spectacular wooden playground that covers 66,000 square feet of climbing adventure.

Pre-Teens & Teens: Leave time for a stop at the Zoofari market, which has lots of cool keychains and stuffed animals that make great presents for friends.

Planning Notes

Avoid long lines. Go after 1 p.m. on weekdays or first thing (9 a.m.) on weekends, when the zoo isn't as busy.

Dress for the heat. It gets very warm here during the summer, and since you'll want to stay more than just an hour, bring hats and sunscreen.

Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking.

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