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Photo: Leona Mayne
Photo: Anastasia Jones
Fort Wayne Zoo
★4.7(10,302 reviews)$$Zoo
🕑 2.5-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love the splash pads and seeing large animals up close, while elementary-aged kids enjoy the interactive feeding experiences, train rides, and learning about wildlife conservation through engaging exhibits.🧡 Saved by 450+ families
About
The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo is an award-winning destination that delights families with over 3,000 animals across beautifully landscaped exhibits. Kids can enjoy hands-on experiences like feeding giraffes, cooling off in splash pads, and taking scenic train rides through the zoo grounds. With its impressive 4.7-star rating from over 10,000 reviews, this zoo consistently delivers memorable animal encounters and interactive fun for the whole family.
Highlights
- ✓Hand-feeding giraffes at the African Journey exhibit
- ✓Splash pads and water play areas perfect for hot days
- ✓Scenic train rides through the zoo grounds
- ✓Over 3,000 animals from around the world
- ✓Beautifully landscaped naturalistic habitats
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right when the zoo opens at 7:30 PM on operating days to beat crowds and see animals at their most active during the cooler evening hours
- 2.Purchase giraffe feeding tickets early as they sell out quickly - head straight to the African Journey area upon arrival
- 3.Bring swimsuits and towels for the splash pad areas so kids can cool off between exhibits
- 4.Pack your own snacks and water bottles to save money, though the zoo does have dining options available
- 5.Download the zoo map ahead of time and plan your route to hit must-see exhibits first when kids have the most energy
Best Time to Visit
Visit on Thursday, Friday, or weekends during summer evenings (note the unusual 7:30-10:00 PM hours). Evening visits offer cooler temperatures, smaller crowds than traditional daytime hours, and more active animals. The zoo is closed Monday-Wednesday.
What to Know
The zoo operates limited evening hours (7:30-10:00 PM) Thursday through Sunday, and is closed Monday-Wednesday. Parking is available on-site, and the zoo offers various food concessions along with picnic areas if you prefer to bring your own meals.
Seasonal Notes
The zoo appears to operate seasonally with evening hours only. Check the website before visiting as hours and days may vary by season. The zoo likely has special holiday events and may be closed during winter months.
Real Experiences
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Nearby Eats
Head to Batter Up Pancakes & Cafe (family-friendly breakfast and lunch spot) or Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen (casual American fare with a kids menu) both within a short drive from the zoo.
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