Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo delights families with over 3,000 animals across beautifully landscaped trails in Papago Park. Kids can hop aboard the safari train for a narrated tour, feed giraffes at eye level, cool off at the Leapin' Lagoon splash pad, and enjoy hands-on encounters at the petting zoo. With shaded pathways and plenty of interactive exhibits, it's one of Arizona's premier family destinations.

• ✓Safari train ride through the zoo with narrated tour
• ✓Giraffe feeding platform for up-close encounters
• ✓Leapin' Lagoon splash pad and water play area
• ✓Stingray Bay touch pool experience
• ✓Monkey Village and Orangutan habitat with climbing structures

1. 1.Arrive right at 9:00 AM when animals are most active and before the Arizona heat sets in,mornings are also less crowded.
2. 2.Download the Phoenix Zoo app before visiting to access the interactive map, feeding times, and keeper talks schedule.
3. 3.Bring swimsuits and towels for the Leapin' Lagoon splash pad, especially during warmer months when kids need a cool-down break.
4. 4.Don't miss the giraffe feeding experience ($6-8 per person),it's the highlight for most kids and creates incredible photo opportunities.
5. 5.Pack refillable water bottles; there are filling stations throughout the zoo, which helps save money and keeps everyone hydrated in the desert climate.

Visit October through April when temperatures are mild, arriving right at opening (9:00 AM) for active animals and smaller crowds. Weekday mornings are ideal, especially Tuesday through Thursday when school groups are less common.

General admission runs $27-30 for adults and $17-20 for kids ages 3-13 (under 3 free). Parking is $10 and fills quickly on weekends. Food options include several cafés and snack stands, though many families pack picnic lunches for the designated eating areas.

Summer months (June-August) feature extended evening hours with reduced admission prices after 4:00 PM. ZooLights runs November through January with millions of twinkling lights and holiday displays. The splash pad typically closes during winter months (November-February).

The nearby Desert Botanical Garden Café (5 minutes away) offers fresh, family-friendly meals with outdoor seating. For casual dining, Oregano's Pizza Bistro in Tempe (10 minutes) is a local favorite with a fun atmosphere and generous portions kids enjoy.