The Phoenix Zoo

HTML clipboard   The Phoenix Zoo, having celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2003, is one of the younger zoos in the country. Not only is it a successful zoo, but it is a privately owned nonprofit zoo. That means that it operates strictly without any government funding. The Phoenix Zoo is totally supported by donors and private organizations.   Gone are the days when it is enough for a zoo to showcase cute animals. Recognizing the important role that zoos must play, the Phoenix Zoo has been very active in wildlife conservation programs. According the the Phoenix Zoo web site, "The Phoenix Zoo has rededicated itself to functioning as an advocate for the natural world, communicating with people about animals, plants, humanity, and the needs we share."   Visiting the Phoenix Zoo The Phoenix Zoo is open most days of the year. From early January through late May the Phoenix Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the summer (June through September) the Phoenix Zoo opens at 7 a.m. and closes either at 2 p.m. or 4 p.m., depending on the day of the week. In the summer it is advisable to get there as early as possible, since many animals head for shade and hide during the heat of the day. In October through January there are several special events at the Phoenix Zoo, so you'll want to check onoje or by phone to determine the hours they are open. Admission prices to the Phoenix Zoo are very reasonable. Now you can even buy tickets to the zoo online!   Getting to the Phoenix Zoo The Phoenix Zoo is located in central Phoenix. Here's a map and directions to the Phoenix Zoo. It is located in Papago Park, between McDowell and Van Buren.   What You'll See at the Phoenix Zoo There are several different sections on 125 acres to visit at the Phoenix Zoo. The Arizona Trail, the Africa Trail, the Tropics Trail, the Discovery Trail and the African Savanna are the major areas, and there are over 1,200 different animals to see and learn about. When you aren't looking at gila monsters and giraffes and raptors and elephants, you can take a pedal boat ride in the lake, or enjoy a snack, or take a leisurely ride around the zoo on the Safari Shuttle. Check the Phoenix Zoo's event calendar for concerts, special events, camps, special exhibits and holiday fun.   What The Phoenix Zoo Won't Do For You Please keep in mind that the Phoenix Zoo is not able to take your unwanted exotic pet if you no longer wish to keep it.   Looking for a Bargain? Two-for-one discount coupons are often available through the Entertainment Book. (Buy Direct) Our Phoenix Zoo is a wonderful place. I enjoy visiting the zoo several times a year, and over the years I have appreciated their efforts to not only be a recreational destination, but to also contribute to the community and serve as an educational resource for the area. Animals in light: Each year the Phoenix Zoo puts up an amazing holiday display of lights. The event is called ZooLights. ZooLights is open in the evenings for about six weeks during the holiday season, beginning late November and continuing through early January. The stars of the show are the lights, but especially the animals created from lights. The bats hanging from the trees, the rhinos, the ladybugs, the alligators, and many, many, more. One of my favorites was the blinking porcupine   Location and Hour: Don't forget to stop in the gift shop at the Phoenix Zoo on your way out. I think this is one of the best attraction gift shops in Phoenix. The address of the Phoenix Zoo is 455 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, Arizona 85008. You can call 602-273-1341 or visit the Phoenix Zoo online for more details about ZooLights.

 

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