St. Louis Zoo: The Ultimate Guide to Free Admission
The St. Louis Zoo is a world-class attraction that draws visitors from all over the world. One of the most appealing aspects of the zoo is that it is completely free to enter. This makes it an affordable and accessible destination for families, school groups, and anyone who loves animals.
The St. Louis Zoo has a rich history that dates back to 1910, when it was first established in Forest Park. Over the years, the zoo has grown and evolved, adding new exhibits and attractions that showcase a wide range of animal species from around the world. Today, the St. Louis Zoo is home to over 17,000 animals, representing more than 600 species.
Key Takeaways
- The St. Louis Zoo is a free attraction that is accessible to everyone.
- The zoo has a rich history and has been a beloved destination for over a century.
- Visitors can see a wide range of animal species from around the world at the St. Louis Zoo.
History of St. Louis Zoo
The St. Louis Zoo, located in Forest Park, is one of the top-rated zoos in the United States. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, attracting over 3 million visitors annually. The zoo has a rich history that dates back to the 1904 World’s Fair, which was held in St. Louis.
During the World’s Fair, the city of St. Louis established the “Zoological Society of St. Louis” to promote the creation of a zoological park in the city. The society’s vision was realized in 1910 when the St. Louis Zoo officially opened its doors to the public.
The zoo was initially part of the “Metropolitan Zoological Park and Museum District,” which was established in 1971. This district was created to support the zoo and other cultural institutions in the area. Today, the district includes the St. Louis Zoo, the Missouri Botanical Garden, the St. Louis Art Museum, and the Missouri History Museum.
Over the years, the St. Louis Zoo has undergone several renovations and expansions. In 1963, the zoo added the “Primate House,” which was the first zoo building in the world to simulate a natural habitat for primates. In 1986, the zoo opened the “River’s Edge” exhibit, which features animals from different river habitats around the world.
The St. Louis Zoo has also been recognized for its conservation efforts. The zoo is home to the WildCare Institute, which works to protect endangered species and their habitats. The institute has partnered with organizations around the world to support conservation efforts.
In summary, the St. Louis Zoo has a long and rich history that dates back to the 1904 World’s Fair. Today, it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, known for its innovative exhibits and commitment to conservation.
Zoo Attractions and Exhibits
St. Louis Zoo offers a wide range of attractions and exhibits that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. From the playful sea lions to the majestic elephants, the zoo has something for everyone.
Sea Lion Sound
Sea Lion Sound is a popular attraction that offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with these playful creatures. Visitors can watch the sea lions swim and play in their natural habitat, or attend one of the daily sea lion shows.
Historic Hill
Historic Hill is home to some of the oldest and most iconic buildings in the zoo, including the Bird House and the Primate House. Visitors can explore the beautiful architecture and learn about the history of the zoo.
The Living World
The Living World is a state-of-the-art exhibit that showcases a variety of species from around the world. Visitors can see everything from lemurs and camels to hippos and bears.
River’s Edge
River’s Edge is a unique exhibit that takes visitors on a journey through different habitats, including the African savanna and the Asian riverfront. Visitors can see a variety of species, including elephants, rhinos, and big cats.
Red Rocks
Red Rocks is home to a variety of species that are native to the American Southwest, including mountain lions, bears, and wolves. Visitors can explore the beautiful desert landscape and learn about these fascinating animals.
Dinoroarus
Dinoroarus is a popular exhibit that features life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. Visitors can explore the prehistoric landscape and learn about these ancient creatures.
Insectarium
The Insectarium is a fascinating exhibit that showcases the incredible world of insects. Visitors can see everything from giant beetles to colorful butterflies.
Penguin and Puffin Coast
Penguin and Puffin Coast is home to a variety of species of penguins and puffins. Visitors can watch these playful birds swim and play in their natural habitat.
Polar Bear Point
Polar Bear Point is home to the zoo’s resident polar bears. Visitors can watch these magnificent animals swim and play in their arctic habitat.
Discovery Corner
Discovery Corner is a popular attraction for children, featuring hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. Visitors can learn about a variety of species and habitats in a fun and engaging way.
Lakeside Crossing
Lakeside Crossing is a beautiful exhibit that showcases a variety of species that are native to the North American wetlands. Visitors can see everything from otters and beavers to herons and cranes.
Animals Always Sculpture
The Animals Always Sculpture is a stunning work of art that celebrates the beauty and diversity of the animal kingdom. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the sculpture and learn about the different species it represents.
Big Cat Country
Big Cat Country is home to a variety of species of big cats, including lions, tigers, and leopards. Visitors can watch these magnificent animals roam and play in their natural habitat.
Jungle of the Apes
Jungle of the Apes is home to a variety of species of primates, including gorillas, orangutans, and chimpanzees. Visitors can watch these intelligent and fascinating animals interact with each other and their environment.
Centene Grizzly Ridge
Centene Grizzly Ridge is home to the zoo’s resident grizzly bears. Visitors can watch these powerful animals roam and play in their natural habitat.
Emerson Dinoroarus
Emerson Dinoroarus is a popular exhibit that features life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. Visitors can explore the prehistoric landscape and learn about these ancient creatures.
Overall, St. Louis Zoo offers a wide range of attractions and exhibits that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. From the playful sea lions to the majestic elephants, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Animal Species at the Zoo
The St. Louis Zoo is home to a wide variety of animal species, including mammals, birds, fish, amphibians, invertebrates, and reptiles. Visitors can see over 16,000 animals from 600 different species at the zoo. Here are some of the most popular animal species at the St. Louis Zoo:
Cheetahs
The St. Louis Zoo is home to several cheetahs, which are known for their incredible speed. Visitors can watch these majestic animals run and play in their natural habitat at the zoo.
Giraffes
The giraffes at the St. Louis Zoo are a popular attraction for visitors of all ages. These gentle giants can be seen grazing and interacting with each other in their spacious habitat.
Addax
The addax is a critically endangered species of antelope that is native to the Sahara desert. The St. Louis Zoo is one of only a few zoos in the world that has successfully bred addax in captivity.
Birds
The St. Louis Zoo has a large collection of bird species from all over the world. Visitors can see everything from penguins and flamingos to eagles and owls.
Fish and Stingrays
The zoo’s Sea Lion Sound exhibit features a variety of fish and stingrays that visitors can observe up close. The exhibit includes a touch pool where visitors can touch and feed the stingrays.
Amphibians and Invertebrates
The St. Louis Zoo has a large collection of amphibians and invertebrates, including frogs, toads, snakes, and spiders. Visitors can learn about these fascinating creatures and their habitats at the zoo’s Herpetarium exhibit.
Reptiles
The zoo’s Reptile House is home to a variety of reptile species, including snakes, lizards, and turtles. Visitors can see these animals up close and learn about their unique characteristics and behaviors.
Overall, the St. Louis Zoo offers visitors a unique opportunity to see a wide variety of animal species from all over the world.
Conservation Efforts
St. Louis Zoo is not only a place for entertainment but also a hub for conservation efforts. The zoo has a strong commitment to protecting endangered species and their habitats. The zoo has been involved in many conservation efforts, including research and breeding programs for endangered species.
The zoo’s WildCare Institute has been instrumental in supporting conservation efforts in the wild. The institute has provided funding and expertise to conservation projects around the world. The institute has also partnered with other organizations to support conservation efforts.
The zoo has a strong commitment to research and has a team of scientists and researchers who work to better understand animal behavior and ecology. The research conducted at the zoo helps to inform conservation efforts and ensure that they are effective.
In addition to research and conservation efforts, the zoo also has a breeding program for endangered species. The zoo has successfully bred many endangered species, including the black rhinoceros, Chinese alligator, and Asian elephant. The breeding program helps to ensure the survival of endangered species and helps to increase their population.
Overall, St. Louis Zoo’s conservation efforts are impressive and demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting endangered species and their habitats. The zoo’s research and breeding programs have been successful in helping to increase the population of endangered species and ensure their survival in the wild.
Visitor Information
Zoo Hours
The St. Louis Zoo is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The zoo’s regular hours are from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, but the hours may vary depending on the season and special events. Visitors are advised to check the zoo’s website or call ahead to confirm the hours of operation.
Parking and Directions
The zoo has two main entrances, the North Entrance and the South Entrance. Parking is available at both entrances for a fee. The South Entrance is located off of Wells Drive, and the North Entrance is located off of Government Drive. Visitors are encouraged to use the South Entrance as it offers more parking spaces. The zoo is also accessible by public transportation, and visitors can take the MetroLink to the Forest Park-DeBaliviere Station and then transfer to the #90 Hampton bus.
Admission and Prices
Admission to the St. Louis Zoo is free. However, some attractions and exhibits may require a fee. The zoo offers a number of free educational programs throughout the day, including animal feedings and keeper chats. Visitors can also purchase tickets for special events and experiences, such as the Zootennial Plaza, Stingrays at Caribbean Cove, and the Emerson Children’s Zoo.
Membership Details
The St. Louis Zoo offers a membership program that provides a number of benefits, including free parking, discounts on food and merchandise, and free admission to special events. Memberships are available for individuals, families, and groups, and prices vary depending on the level of membership. Memberships can be purchased online or at the zoo’s membership office.
Zoo Map
The St. Louis Zoo offers a detailed map of the zoo on its website, which can be downloaded and printed for free. The map includes information about the zoo’s exhibits, attractions, and amenities, as well as the location of restrooms, food stands, and gift shops. Visitors are encouraged to use the map to plan their visit and make the most of their time at the zoo.
Additional Facilities
Visitors to the St. Louis Zoo can enjoy more than just the animal exhibits. The zoo is located in Forest Park, which is home to several other attractions that visitors may want to explore during their visit.
Forest Park
Forest Park is a large urban park that covers over 1,300 acres. In addition to the zoo, the park is home to several other attractions, including the Missouri History Museum, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the Missouri Botanical Garden. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and biking trails, boating, and golf.
Missouri Botanical Garden
The Missouri Botanical Garden is located just a short distance from the zoo and is considered one of the top botanical gardens in the world. The garden features over 79 acres of beautiful gardens, including a Japanese garden, a Chinese garden, and a rose garden. Visitors can also explore the Climatron, a geodesic dome that houses a rainforest ecosystem.
History Museum
The Missouri History Museum is located in Forest Park and is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Missouri and St. Louis. The museum features exhibits on a variety of topics, including the Lewis and Clark expedition, the Civil War, and the history of the city of St. Louis.
Art Museum
The Saint Louis Art Museum is also located in Forest Park and features an extensive collection of art from around the world. The museum’s collection includes works from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, as well as contemporary art from around the world.
Overall, visitors to the St. Louis Zoo can enjoy a full day of activities by exploring the other attractions located in Forest Park. The Metropolitan Zoological Park and Museum District (ZMD) oversees the operations of all these attractions, ensuring that visitors have a seamless experience.
Events and Shows
The St. Louis Zoo offers a variety of events and shows throughout the year that are free and open to the public. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from animal encounters to live performances.
One popular event is the Sea Lion Show, which takes place daily at the Sea Lion Sound exhibit. Visitors can watch as the sea lions perform a variety of tricks and behaviors, including flips, jumps, and vocalizations. The show is both entertaining and educational, as it teaches visitors about the natural behaviors and habitats of sea lions.
In addition to the Sea Lion Show, the St. Louis Zoo also offers a variety of other shows and events throughout the year. Visitors can attend animal feedings, where they can watch as zookeepers feed and interact with various animals, including penguins, elephants, and gorillas. There are also live performances by local musicians and dancers, as well as special events for holidays such as Halloween and Christmas.
For those who are looking for a more interactive experience, the St. Louis Zoo also offers a range of action-packed activities. Visitors can participate in the Stingrays at Caribbean Cove exhibit, where they can touch and feed live stingrays. They can also take part in the Zooline Railroad, which offers a scenic tour of the zoo’s exhibits and attractions.
Overall, the St. Louis Zoo’s events and shows provide visitors with a unique and memorable experience. Whether visitors are looking for entertainment, education, or adventure, there is something for everyone at the St. Louis Zoo.
St. Louis Zoo in the Community
The St. Louis Zoo is not only a popular tourist attraction, but it is also an integral part of the local community. The zoo has been a staple in the Saint Louis area for over 100 years and has contributed significantly to the local economy.
Businesses in the area benefit from the influx of visitors that the zoo brings in each year. In addition to the direct revenue generated by visitors, the zoo also supports local businesses by purchasing goods and services from them. The zoo is committed to supporting the local economy, and this has been a significant part of its success.
The zoo’s president, Dr. Jeffrey Bonner, has been instrumental in the zoo’s success. He has led the zoo through significant changes, including the addition of new exhibits, the implementation of sustainable practices, and the expansion of the zoo’s research and conservation efforts.
One of the unique features of the St. Louis Zoo is the collection of sculptures that can be found throughout the park. These sculptures are not only beautiful works of art, but they also serve to educate visitors about the animals and their habitats.
Overall, the St. Louis Zoo is a vital part of the local community. Its commitment to sustainability, conservation, and education has made it a leader in the zoo industry. The zoo’s impact on the local economy and its dedication to the community make it a beloved institution in Saint Louis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission prices for the St Louis Zoo?
Admission to the St Louis Zoo is free. However, certain attractions within the zoo may require a fee.
Can I visit the St Louis Zoo for free?
Yes, admission to the St Louis Zoo is free for all visitors.
What are the requirements to qualify for free admission to the St Louis Zoo?
There are no requirements to qualify for free admission to the St Louis Zoo. It is open to all visitors free of charge.
Are there any special offers for visiting the St Louis Zoo?
The St Louis Zoo offers special programs and events throughout the year. Check their website for more information on current offers.
How do I get to the St Louis Zoo?
The St Louis Zoo is located in Forest Park, which is easily accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. Check their website for more detailed information on directions and parking.
What are the operating hours for the St Louis Zoo?
The St Louis Zoo is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm, with extended hours during the summer months. Check their website for more information on current hours and special events.