Phoenix Zoo 2023-2024

The Phoenix Zoo is one of the largest non-profit zoos in the United States, home to more than 3,000 animals, including nearly 400 species, many of which are threatened or endangered. Instead of debating whether it's worth a visit, take it from us—it's a must-see destination. Here, you'll discover some of the Zoo's key highlights and activities that should be at the top of your list.

Best Time to Visit The Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo is a fantastic year-round destination, but certain seasons offer unique events and activities that make a visit even more special. From late fall to early winter (October to January), the Zoo hosts memorable events like the Spooky Safari, where Halloween is celebrated with trick-or-treating through themed candy stations scattered across the park. Another highlight is ZooLights, when millions of twinkling lights transform the Zoo into a stunning spectacle, guiding visitors through illuminated paths and animal habitats. To find out more about this event, click here.

For the best experience, visiting in the morning is ideal, as the weather is cooler and the animals are more active.

Activities

Spanning roughly 125 acres, the Phoenix Zoo offers about 2.5 miles (4 km) of walking paths, divided into four unique trails: Arizona, Africa, Tropics, and the Children's Trail. With such a vast area to explore, the Zoo provides a variety of daily activities, such as Animal Presentations, Keeper Chats, Monkey Village, Harmony Farm, Stingray Bay, Camel Rides, and much more.

Animals

The Phoenix Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals, including mammals, fish, invertebrates, birds, and reptiles. One of the unique experiences here is the open exhibit at Monkey Village, where visitors can walk among squirrel monkeys as they leap through trees just inches away. At Harmony Farm, zoo-goers can meet a variety of farm animals like cows, horses, chickens, turkeys, sheep, and goats. Beyond that, camels, zebras, elephants, lions, rhinos, and giraffes are just a few of the many animals waiting to be discovered.

Schedule

The Phoenix Zoo follows a seasonal schedule. In September, the Zoo is open Monday through Thursday from 8 am to 1 pm and Friday through Sunday from 8 am to 4 pm, with early entry for members at 7 am. From October through December, the Zoo operates daily from 9 am to 4 pm, with members allowed early entry at 8 am. During the spring, typical hours are from 9 am to 5 pm, while in the summer, the Zoo operates from 7 am to 1 pm due to the heat.

Tickets

Visitors may purchase tickets in advance online or at the Zoo. Online daytime general admission is priced at $37.95 for adults (14+) and $27.95 for children. On-site general admission is $39.95 for adults and $29.95 for children. Group tickets are also available for general admission when buying 25 or more in advance. Note that additional charges apply for certain animal interactions.

Rules & Restrictions

Visitors should be mindful of specific restrictions and rules while at the Zoo. It is essential to respect all fences and boundaries to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

The following items are not permitted: alcohol, glass containers, balloons, balls, frisbees, radios, whistles, musical instruments, hoverboards, skateboards, scooters, smart trikes, bikes, roller skates, rip-sticks, weapons, knives, selfie sticks, toy weapons, etc.

Smoking is strictly forbidden on Zoo grounds and in Papago Park. To prevent fire hazards, smoking in Papago Park is only permitted inside an enclosed personal vehicle, and cigarette butts must not be discarded within the park or Zoo grounds. Electronic cigarettes are also prohibited. Personal pets are not allowed at the Zoo. Only trained and vaccinated service animals are permitted to accompany guests.