Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium consistently ranks among the world's best zoos, offering an extraordinary day of exploration for families. From walking through the world's largest indoor desert and rainforest to marveling at underwater tunnels surrounded by sharks, this isn't just a zoo,it's an immersive adventure that will leave kids talking about it for months.

• ✓Lied Jungle - world's largest indoor rainforest with free-roaming monkeys and a multi-story waterfall
• ✓Desert Dome - largest indoor desert in the world featuring animals from three different deserts
• ✓Kingdoms of the Night - unique underground exhibit showcasing nocturnal animals in reverse light-cycle environments
• ✓Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium with a 70-foot shark tunnel and interactive touch pools
• ✓Hubbard Gorilla Valley and Hubbard Orangutan Forest for incredible primate encounters

1. 1.Arrive right at 10:00 AM opening to experience the most popular exhibits (Desert Dome and Kingdoms of the Night) before crowds build up
2. 2.Download the zoo app before visiting to plan your route,the zoo is massive at 160 acres, and strategic planning prevents exhausted kids and backtracking
3. 3.Bring a wagon or be prepared for lots of walking; comfortable shoes are essential and consider the Skyfari aerial tram ($8 extra) to give little legs a rest while enjoying aerial views
4. 4.Pack refillable water bottles,there are filling stations throughout, and staying hydrated is crucial when covering this much ground
5. 5.Don't miss the indoor Kingdoms of the Night exhibit during midday heat or cold,it's a climate-controlled highlight where kids can see nocturnal animals in action

Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) during spring or fall for the best experience with smaller crowds and pleasant weather. Animals are most active in cooler morning hours, and you'll have easier access to popular exhibits like the Lied Jungle and Desert Dome.

General admission ranges from $20-25 for adults and $15-18 for children (3-11), with additional fees for special experiences like the Skyfari or carousel. Multiple dining options are available throughout the zoo, from quick-service cafés to sit-down restaurants, and the facility is stroller and wheelchair accessible with rentals available.

Open year-round with winter hours (10 AM - 4 PM). Summer offers extended evening hours and special events. Indoor exhibits like the Desert Dome and Lied Jungle make this an excellent choice even in extreme heat or cold. Holiday lights and Zoo Lights events run November-December.

Zesto Ice Cream & Grill (classic burgers and ice cream, 10 minutes away) or Spaghetti Works in the Old Market district (15 minutes away) offers family-style Italian in a fun, casual atmosphere perfect for hungry kids.