Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park
A charming, well-maintained zoo in Idaho Falls featuring diverse animals, perfect for families and quick, engaging visits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active
Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, well-maintained zoo in Idaho Falls featuring diverse animals, perfect for families and quick, engaging visits.
"A delightful surprise and a well-maintained hidden gem, perfect for a relaxed afternoon visit. "
🎯 Arrive Early for Peak Activity
See animals at their most energetic by visiting right when the zoo opens. :clock1:
🎟️ Season Passes Save Money
Locals and frequent visitors can save significantly with a season pass. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Big Cats
Big Cat Enclosure
Witness the power and beauty of lions and tigers up close. A truly captivating sight for all ages.
Playful Penguins
Penguin Exhibit
Watch these charming birds waddle and dive. Their energetic antics are a crowd-pleaser.
Primate Encounters
Primate House
See gibbons 'singing' and other primates swinging through their habitats. Fascinating to observe.
Duck Feeding Area
Central Pond
A delightful spot for little ones to interact with ducks. Bring some bird-safe food for a memorable experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Active Animals
Season Passes for Local Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Peak Activity
See animals at their most energetic by visiting right when the zoo opens. :clock1:
🎟️ Season Passes Save Money
Locals and frequent visitors can save significantly with a season pass. :moneybag:
🗣️ Chat with Keepers/Volunteers
Engage with staff for fascinating facts and animal insights. :speech_balloon:
📸 Capture Cute Moments
Bring your camera for adorable shots, especially of the primates and big cats.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Peak Activity
See animals at their most energetic by visiting right when the zoo opens. :clock1:
🎟️ Season Passes Save Money
Locals and frequent visitors can save significantly with a season pass. :moneybag:
🗣️ Chat with Keepers/Volunteers
Engage with staff for fascinating facts and animal insights. :speech_balloon:
📸 Capture Cute Moments
Bring your camera for adorable shots, especially of the primates and big cats.
🎃 Boo at the Zoo Fun
Don't miss the Halloween event for trick-or-treating and spooky fun!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Idaho Falls Zoo as a delightful surprise and a well-maintained 'hidden gem.' Its manageable size is a significant plus, making it perfect for families and those with limited time, while still offering a diverse and engaging collection of animals. The friendly staff and opportunities for interaction further enhance the positive experience.
"We love the zoo! It's such a hidden gem for Idaho Falls. It not a big zoo, but it has a lot of really cool animals.
We love that it is smaller as we can see all the animals in about an hour, but can spend more time there if we want.
If you live in Idaho Falls, I definitely recommend a season pass. You make your money back in no time and it's such a great summer activity.
Another thing that is really cool, is they normally have zoo keepers/volunteers out that teach you different things about the animals, answer your questions, and sometimes you even get to touch fur of the animal."
Kayli Fuller
"The great part about anything zoo is the chance to see animals you normally wouldn't. Some zoos aren't managed well though.
This zoos was well maintained. The animals seemed well taken care of. It was a smaller zoo, but that was perfect for the time we had to visit. 3hrs to walk around the entire place was perfect. Little kids only have so much attention, and so this was perfect. I highly recommend going."
David Allen
"Idaho Falls Zoo is a delightful surprise nestled in a small city. Despite its modest size, the zoo offers an impressive and well-curated collection of animals from around the world—including lions, zebras, penguins, and primates. The layout is family-friendly and easy to navigate, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon visit.
One of the highlights for kids is the face painting station, which adds a fun and colorful touch to the experience. The zoo is clean, well-maintained, and staffed by friendly personnel who clearly care about the animals and guests alike.
Overall, it’s a gem for a city this size—a great place to bring the family and enjoy a few hours of nature and learning."
Tan. T.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Idaho Falls Zoo is located within Tautphaus Park at 2725 W. Sunnyside Road, Idaho Falls, ID. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available within the park. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there is parking available within Tautphaus Park, which serves the zoo and other park amenities. It's usually plentiful, especially during non-peak hours.
To avoid traffic and find easier parking, aim for weekday mornings or early afternoons. Weekend mornings right at opening are also a good bet before crowds build.
The zoo is generally well-maintained and easy to navigate with strollers and wheelchairs. Paths are paved and accessible throughout most of the park.
While specific policies can vary, most zoos allow visitors to bring their own non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. However, it's always a good idea to check the zoo's official website for their most current policy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally affordable, making it a great value. For the most up-to-date pricing, it's best to check the official Idaho Falls Zoo website, as they can change seasonally.
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and military personnel. Look out for special promotions or consider a season pass if you plan to visit multiple times.
For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required, but it can save time. For special events like 'Boo at the Zoo,' advance tickets are often recommended due to high demand.
The zoo typically operates from spring through fall, with hours varying by season. Check the official Idaho Falls Zoo website for the most accurate and current operating hours.
Yes, the zoo offers season passes which are highly recommended for locals or those planning multiple visits, offering excellent value.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The zoo features a diverse collection of over 130 animal species, including lions, tigers, zebras, primates, penguins, and more. They also have a petting zoo and aviary.
Absolutely! The zoo's manageable size makes it perfect for young children with shorter attention spans. The petting zoo and duck feeding area are particular hits.
Yes, the zoo often has keepers or volunteers sharing facts and sometimes allowing supervised animal touch experiences. They also host events like 'Boo at the Zoo' with activities. +1
Most visitors find it takes about 90 minutes to 3 hours to explore the entire 7-acre zoo, depending on how much time you spend at each exhibit.
The zoo offers a gift shop, food concessions, and clean restrooms. Face painting stations are also sometimes available for added fun.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the zoo typically has food concessions offering snacks and light meals. You can also bring your own food to enjoy in designated areas.
Concessions usually offer typical zoo fare like hot dogs, popcorn, ice cream, and drinks. It's a good option for a quick bite during your visit.
While not always explicitly designated as 'picnic areas,' there are usually spots within the zoo or the surrounding Tautphaus Park where you can enjoy your own packed lunch.
Yes, bringing your own reusable water bottles is generally encouraged. There are often water fountains available to refill them.
Options can vary, but typically you'll find items like pretzels, popcorn, and sometimes fruit cups. It's best to inquire at the concession stand for current offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The big cat enclosures, primate exhibits, and the penguin area offer fantastic photo opportunities. Early morning light is often best for animal photography.
Tripod policies can vary. It's advisable to check the zoo's official website or contact them directly to confirm their regulations regarding tripods and professional photography equipment.
Early morning, right after opening, is ideal. Animals are often more active, and the light is softer, leading to better photos.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in some areas to avoid disturbing the animals.
Keep an eye out for special events like 'Boo at the Zoo' which offer unique, themed photo backdrops and opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Consider visiting in the morning when animals are most active and crowds are thinner. Special events like 'Boo at the Zoo' also provide themed entertainment that kids will love.
+1 Many parents rave about how the zoo is a 'hidden gem' for families in the area, offering a delightful and educational experience without being too demanding. 💰 Budget-Conscious Visitors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Animal Kingdom
Despite its 7-acre size, the zoo is thoughtfully laid out, allowing visitors to see all the animals in approximately 90 minutes to 3 hours. This manageable scale is particularly beneficial for families with young children, ensuring that attention spans are kept engaged. The enclosures are generally well-maintained, and the animals appear calm and well-cared for, contributing to a positive viewing experience.
Beyond the permanent residents, the zoo occasionally welcomes new additions, such as baby animals, adding an element of surprise and delight to visits. Special events, like the popular 'Boo at the Zoo,' transform the park into a festive Halloween destination, offering unique experiences beyond the typical zoo visit.
Community and Conservation Efforts
Furthermore, the zoo often collaborates with organizations like INL's Environmental Monitoring and Natural Resources for special educational programs, such as bat-watching nights. These initiatives highlight the zoo's role in educating the public about local wildlife and broader conservation issues.
Educational programs and keeper talks are also a regular feature, providing visitors with in-depth knowledge about the animals and their habitats. These interactions, often led by passionate zoo staff or volunteers, enrich the visitor experience and foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit