1. North Carolina Zoo – Asheboro, NC (2,600 acres)
At 2,600 acres, the North Carolina Zoo is the largest traditional zoo in the U.S. Its expansive environment gives African and North American animals like elephants, lions, and bison plenty of room to roam in naturalistic habitats. Visitors get to feel like they’re on safari or exploring North America’s wilderness.
2. The Wilds – Cumberland, OH (9,154 acres)
With 9,154 acres, The Wilds is a safari-style conservation park rather than a traditional zoo, but it tops the list for its sheer size. This Ohio park offers safari tours through sprawling landscapes where visitors spot rhinos, cheetahs, and giraffes in their expansive habitats. It’s like a slice of Africa in the Midwest, perfect for a unique and educational experience.
3. San Diego Zoo Safari Park – Escondido, CA (1,800 acres)
Part of the famous San Diego Zoo, this 1,800-acre safari park offers a unique, open-range experience. Rhinos, giraffes, and other African species thrive here, and the park’s Africa Tram tour makes for an exciting, safari-like experience, ideal for those interested in seeing animals in spacious, natural environments.
4. Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Orlando, FL (580 acres)
Disney’s Animal Kingdom combines theme park magic with a dedication to conservation across 580 acres. The Kilimanjaro Safaris exhibit alone feels like an African adventure, with over 1,700 animals from 250 species across the park. It’s a top destination for those wanting an educational and fun experience in true Disney style.
5. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium – Powell, OH (580 acres)
This Ohio-based zoo also covers 580 acres and is home to over 10,000 animals representing 600 species. Its Heart of Africa exhibit lets visitors observe lions, zebras, and giraffes in spacious, savanna-like enclosures. With themed regions and conservation programs, the Columbus Zoo is a crowd favorite.
6. Minnesota Zoo – Apple Valley, MN (485 acres)
The 485-acre Minnesota Zoo offers both native and exotic species in unique, immersive exhibits. The Minnesota Trail focuses on local wildlife, while the Tropics Trail features animals from far-off habitats, making it a well-rounded educational experience.
7. Bronx Zoo – New York, NY (265 acres)
One of America’s oldest and most famous zoos, the Bronx Zoo spans 265 acres in New York City. Known for iconic exhibits like the Congo Gorilla Forest, it combines large habitats with urban accessibility, offering a remarkable range of species and immersive environments for wildlife education.
8. Smithsonian’s National Zoo – Washington, DC (163 acres)
Covering 163 acres in the heart of DC, the National Zoo is known for its panda exhibit and its global conservation programs. It’s a popular, accessible spot with free admission, providing habitats for elephants, big cats, and more, making it a staple for animal lovers visiting the nation’s capital.
9. Detroit Zoo – Royal Oak, MI (125 acres)
With 125 acres, the Detroit Zoo is known for its dedication to animal welfare and sustainability. The zoo’s Arctic Ring of Life is a must-see, featuring one of North America’s largest polar bear exhibits, as well as a top-notch penguin conservation center.
10. San Diego Zoo – San Diego, CA (100 acres)
The San Diego Zoo spans 100 acres and is known worldwide for its extensive collection of animals and pioneering conservation efforts. Iconic exhibits like Koalafornia Adventure and Tiger Trail make it a beloved spot for visitors, offering an educational yet exciting experience.
11. Oakland Zoo – Oakland, CA (100 acres)
This 100-acre zoo in California stands out for its emphasis on local wildlife, especially in the California Trail exhibit, where visitors can see mountain lions and grizzly bears. With scenic views of the Bay Area from gondola rides, the Oakland Zoo is a hit among locals and tourists alike.
12. Saint Louis Zoo – St. Louis, MO (90 acres)
Although only 90 acres, the Saint Louis Zoo is renowned for its River’s Edge exhibit, where interconnected habitats showcase elephants, hippos, and more. Its free admission and well-designed enclosures make it a favorite for families and animal enthusiasts alike.
13. Indianapolis Zoo – Indianapolis, IN (64 acres)
At 64 acres, the Indianapolis Zoo combines a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden, making it a well-rounded destination. Its dolphin exhibit, where visitors can see dolphins up close, is particularly popular, as is its successful elephant breeding program.
14. Houston Zoo – Houston, TX (55 acres)
The Houston Zoo may be smaller at 55 acres, but it’s packed with over 6,000 animals. Highlights include the McNair Asian Elephant Habitat and Kipp Aquarium, and the zoo’s dedication to conservation shines throughout, offering a compact but impactful experience for visitors.
