Our summer road trip was nothing short of epic, taking us from South Dakota’s rugged beauty to Wisconsin’s charming attractions and finally to Nebraska’s bustling city of Omaha. Before heading home to Colorado, we made one last unforgettable stop: the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, famously ranked as the #1 zoo in the nation. Exploring the Omaha Zoo with kids was sure to be an incredible journey!
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The History of the Omaha Zoo
The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium has a rich history dating back to 1894 when it was first established as Riverview Park Zoo. Over the decades, it has grown into a world-renowned facility, thanks in part to generous donations and visionary leadership. Today, it spans over 130 acres and is home to nearly 1,000 species. Its mission focuses on conservation, education, and creating immersive, engaging experiences for visitors. The zoo’s reputation for excellence has earned it the title of America’s top zoo, and after our visit, we can confirm it deserves every bit of that acclaim.
A Zoo Unlike Any Other
Walking into the Omaha Zoo is like stepping into another world. The attention to detail, thoughtful design, and immersive environments reminded us of the magic of Disney parks. Each section felt like its own adventure, with habitats meticulously crafted to provide ample space and enrichment for the animals. This isn’t just a zoo—it’s a journey across continents, ecosystems, and time.
Key Attractions at the Omaha Zoo With Kids
Lied Jungle
As the largest indoor rainforest in North America, the Lied Jungle was a must-visit for us—not only because it’s one of the zoo’s most iconic features but also because it shares our family name! While we’re not related to the Lied family who helped make this incredible exhibit possible, we couldn’t help but feel a special connection to it. Walking through the dense greenery, hearing the waterfalls, and spotting animals like monkeys and tapirs made this exhibit a family favorite.
Desert Dome
The Desert Dome is another iconic feature of the zoo and the largest indoor desert in the world. Its striking glass structure houses desert ecosystems from around the globe, including the Namib Desert, the Red Center of Australia, and the Sonoran Desert. The kids loved spotting meerkats, wallabies, and snakes while marveling at the unique plants and landscapes.
Kingdoms of the Night
Beneath the Desert Dome lies the Kingdoms of the Night, the world’s largest nocturnal animal exhibit. This underground journey was both educational and fun, offering a rare chance to see nocturnal creatures in action. The swamp area, complete with an alligator and glowing lights, was a highlight for the kids.
African Grasslands
Spanning 28 acres, the African Grasslands exhibit was a showstopper. From elephants and giraffes to lions and cheetahs, this area offers vast, open spaces that closely mimic the animals’ natural habitats. The kids were in awe of the majestic elephants, and we appreciated how much room the animals had to roam.
Aquarium
The Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium transported us under the sea, with exhibits featuring everything from coral reefs to penguins. Walking through the 70-foot shark tunnel was an unforgettable experience, and our youngest couldn’t stop talking about the playful penguins.
Asian Highlands
The Asian Highlands exhibit brought us face-to-face with red pandas, leopards, and tigers in a beautifully designed area. The attention to detail in recreating the animals’ native environments was incredible, making this another favorite spot.
Hubbard Orangutan Forest
The Orangutan Forest was one of the highlights of the zoo for us. It features a 20 foot waterfall and a tree climbing structure. We got up close and personal with the Orangutans and the kids really loved this. The entire section was themed and it felt like we were right in the heart of Asia.
Tips for Visiting the Omaha Zoo with Kids
- Bring a Stroller or Wagon: The zoo is massive, and with so much walking, having a stroller or wagon is a lifesaver for little ones.
- Stay Hydrated: The summer heat and humidity were intense, so we made sure to pack plenty of water. There are refill stations throughout the park, which were a big help.
- Pack Snacks: While there are food options at the zoo, bringing snacks for the kids helped keep everyone energized.
- Utilize the Tram System: Although we didn’t use it as much as we should have, the tram system is a great way to save some steps and get a different perspective of the zoo.
- Plan Your Route: With only one day to explore, we made a rough plan to hit the major exhibits. This helped us see everything, though we were absolutely exhausted by the end! And… try not to back track. We ended up walking extra distances because we didn’t plan accordingly!
Why It’s Ranked #1: Omaha Zoo with Kids
What sets the Omaha Zoo apart is its dedication to excellence in every aspect. The animal habitats are spacious and thoughtfully designed, ensuring both the animals’ well-being and an immersive experience for visitors. The exhibits go beyond simple viewing areas, often incorporating interactive elements and educational signage that make learning fun for all ages. The cleanliness and upkeep of the zoo were also top-notch, adding to the overall experience.
A Perfect Family Adventure: Omaha Zoo with Kids
Despite the heat and the miles we walked, our day at the Omaha Zoo was nothing short of magical. The kids were captivated by the animals, the exhibits, and the adventure of it all. From the joy of discovering bats in the Kingdoms of the Night to the thrill of walking through the shark tunnel, every moment was a highlight.
This zoo wasn’t just a place to see animals—it was a place to connect with nature, learn about conservation, and make memories as a family. The playgrounds, thoughtful design, and attention to detail ensured there was something for everyone, from our youngest to our oldest.
We’ll be back to the Omaha Zoo with Kids!
Our visit to the Omaha Zoo was the perfect way to end our summer road trip. It’s a destination that truly lives up to its reputation as the #1 zoo in the nation, offering an unparalleled blend of education, entertainment, and inspiration. If you’re ever in Omaha with kids, this zoo is an absolute must-visit. Whether you have a day or a week to explore, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. We can’t wait to return on our next trip to Omaha!
