I think our zoo has one the most personal, down-home feels of any zoo I've ever visited (and I go to the zoo in every city I visit). When you walk in, you really do feel like you're a part of the zoo. The animal keepers are generally visible and friendly (although busy), most of the exhibits are very easy to view and it just has a friendly feel. It might not be as glitzy as some of the zoos in the bigger cities, but neither is Little Rock. This is definitely a Little Rock Zoo with a Little Rock personality.
If you haven't been in a while, you'll be surprised to see that many of exhibits have been redesigned to be more animal friendly. Most of the exhibits are large and allow the animals to be out in the open. However, even the smaller, enclosed exhibits (like the small cats) have been updated with new scenery including gravel, plants, logs and toys to make the the animal's lives happier and healthier.
Just because it's not as "glitzy" doesn't mean the exhibits aren't just as good as other zoos. Some are even better. Take the lionesses, for example. That is an amazing exhibit that allows you, if you time it right, to be face to face with one of the most majestic cats in the world. The tropical birdhouse is another personal fave. It's an indoor tropical aviary where you can walk through and look at many colorful species of birds, right at your feet (sometimes on top of them). The reptile house is another favorite and during the warmer months, you can't miss the alligator feedings at 2:00 every Saturday. That's great fun.
The Zoo is also very active in education. Chances are, if you visit on a weekend, you'll get an up close and personal encounter with at least one animal. During the weekends, Zoo Docents (volunteers) are normally on hand to introduce you to some of their animal friends. You might even see Docents with animals in other places around the city. That's right, the animals can come to you for a very reasonable fee. The educational animals do parties, educational programs for youth groups and clubs and more. You can also schedule programs at the amphitheater and children's birthday parties. Contact the education department at 501-666-2406 ext. 124 for more information on pricing and how to get The Zoo to your organization.
During the Spring, you'll probably see lots of baby animals as the Little Rock Zoo is a participant in may breeding programs. This is a great time to bring your kids. Not only will they see baby animals, but the warmer months are the time when the petting zoo is normally open. You'd be surprised how excited kids are to see pygmy goats. The petting zoo is not always open. Please call (501-666-2406) if you want to confirm that it is open.
Regular admission is only $10.00 for adults and $7.00 for children. You can become a member and visit as much as you want for a low price. Check it out.
