
Montgomery Zoo
A 40-acre zoo featuring over 700 animals and the educational Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, with ongoing upgrades.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, active animals

Montgomery Zoo
Best Time
Cooler temps, active animals

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 40-acre zoo featuring over 700 animals and the educational Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, with ongoing upgrades.
"Nice place to spend a couple hours! Plenty of animals and the museum were really nice."

Grab a Zoo Map
Signage can be tricky; a map is essential for navigating the zoo efficiently. :world_map:
Ride the Train!
A must-do for families, the zoo train offers a fun way to see more of the grounds. :train2:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pygmy Hippos
Pygmy Hippo Exhibit
Meet adorable pygmy hippo calves like Meela and Anuket, often seen close to their mothers, Lola.

Mann Wildlife Learning Museum
Adjacent Museum
Explore impressive taxidermy displays showcasing a wide variety of animals, offering an educational complement to the live exhibits.

Zoo Train Ride
Zoo Train Station
A mandatory and fun ride for families, offering a scenic tour around the zoo grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Grab a Zoo Map
Signage can be tricky; a map is essential for navigating the zoo efficiently. :world_map:
Ride the Train!
A must-do for families, the zoo train offers a fun way to see more of the grounds. :train2:
Check for Closures
Some exhibits may be closed for upgrades, so check ahead if you have specific animals in mind. :construction:
Hydrate and Snack Smart
Bring your own water bottles and snacks, as on-site options can be pricey. :water_wave: :apple:
Tips
from all over the internet
Grab a Zoo Map
Signage can be tricky; a map is essential for navigating the zoo efficiently. :world_map:
Ride the Train!
A must-do for families, the zoo train offers a fun way to see more of the grounds. :train2:
Check for Closures
Some exhibits may be closed for upgrades, so check ahead if you have specific animals in mind. :construction:
Hydrate and Snack Smart
Bring your own water bottles and snacks, as on-site options can be pricey. :water_wave: :apple:
Consider the Skylift
A fun ride for all ages, the skylift offers a unique perspective of the zoo. :mountain_cableway:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Montgomery Zoo to be a pleasant place for a few hours, with highlights like the pygmy hippos and the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. While parking and food prices are generally well-received, some guests note that ticket prices are high for the current number of exhibits, and signage can be confusing. The zoo is undergoing renovations, which may affect exhibit availability.
"Our first time going:
1. Lacks directional signage for how to navigate around the zoo.
2. Tickets are priced too high for the few animals on exhibit.
3. Accessible for mobility impaired customers seemed good
4. Gift shop was small but cute
I will table my plans to buy a membership until I can determine if it is worthwhile once more exhibits are open and renovation is further along.
5"
Katrina Upshaw
"8/2025
We like zoos and had a little extra time in Montgomery so we decided to stop by. It was hot so some animals were inside, but we really liked the ones we saw including the Pygmy hippos, elephants, lions, cheetahs, other cats, rhino, chimpanzees, lemurs, and more.
Nice place to spend a couple hours!"
Mark Smith
"My husband and I went on Military Appreciation Day. We took 2 of our grandchildren ages 6 and 8. It was a great day. The zoo was big enough that it kept us busy all day. Yet small enough that it didn't overwhelm us. They are upgrading the zoo and some animal exhibits were closed."
Lynne Parmer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Montgomery Zoo is located at 3001 Zoo Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36111. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors use GPS or mapping apps to find the most direct route.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the Montgomery Zoo, and it's generally considered a strong point by visitors.
Information on public transportation options to the Montgomery Zoo is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of arrival.
While walking is the primary way to explore, the zoo offers a train ride and a skylift (cable car) that can help you navigate between exhibits and save energy, especially for families.
The zoo is generally considered accessible for mobility-impaired customers, with paved paths and accessible viewing areas for many exhibits.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but visitors have noted they can be on the higher side for the number of animals on exhibit. It's best to check the official Montgomery Zoo website for the most current admission prices.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the zoo's entrance or potentially online through their official website. Some events might have separate ticketing.
Yes, the zoo offers memberships, which can be a worthwhile investment for frequent visitors. However, some reviewers suggest evaluating if it's worth it after seeing the current exhibits.
Zoo hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by holidays or special events. It's recommended to check the official Montgomery Zoo website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
While specific discount coupons aren't always advertised, the zoo sometimes offers special pricing for military appreciation days or other events. Checking their website or local event listings is advisable.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
The Montgomery Zoo houses over 700 animals, including pygmy hippos, elephants, lions, cheetahs, rhinos, chimpanzees, and lemurs. Visitors have enjoyed seeing these and many other exotic species.
The zoo is undergoing upgrades, so some exhibits might be closed. However, highlights include the pygmy hippos and the adjacent Mann Wildlife Learning Museum with taxidermy displays.
The Mann Wildlife Learning Museum is a separate facility connected to the zoo, featuring an extensive collection of taxidermied animals from around the world, offering an educational experience.
While not explicitly detailed as a dedicated petting zoo, the zoo does have various animal encounters and exhibits that allow for closer viewing, and some younger visitors enjoy the interactive aspects.
Kids can enjoy the train ride, the skylift, and exploring the diverse animal exhibits. The water adventure house is also a hit during warmer months.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
The zoo has a cafe, and visitors have noted that the food prices are reasonable for a zoo setting. The staff at the overlook cafe received specific praise for their customer service.
Some visitors have found the snacks for kids to be quite expensive. It's often recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks to save money.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted and recommended by visitors to manage costs, especially for families.
While specific picnic areas aren't always highlighted, visitors can often find spots to enjoy their own packed meals. It's a good idea to check a zoo map for designated areas.
The food quality at the zoo cafe is generally considered decent for a zoo setting, with the staff receiving positive remarks for their service.
📸 📸 Photography
The pygmy hippo exhibit, especially with the calves, offers adorable photo opportunities. The diverse animal enclosures and the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum also provide unique shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged. However, always be mindful of animal welfare and avoid using flash photography directly at the animals.
While not explicitly stated, standard zoo etiquette applies. Avoid disturbing animals or other visitors. Professional photography permits might be required for commercial shoots.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer lighting, which is ideal for photography. Animals are also often more active during these cooler parts of the day.
The pygmy hippos, especially the young ones, are a major draw for photographers. The skylift also provides a unique aerial perspective for capturing the zoo's layout.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for potentially expensive snacks, so packing your own is a smart move. While signage can be a bit confusing, a map will help you navigate. Consider the skylift for a unique ride and a different view of the zoo. Some exhibits may be closed due to renovations, but there's still plenty to keep the little ones entertained for a few hours.
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pygmy Hippo Family
Visitors often express delight at seeing the young hippos, with many sharing videos and photos of their interactions. The zoo's commitment to conservation and successful breeding programs is evident here, making it a highlight for many families.
While the zoo is undergoing renovations, the pygmy hippo enclosure remains a consistent attraction, offering a glimpse into the lives of these endangered creatures. It's a testament to the zoo's efforts in animal care and education.
Navigating the Zoo: Tips from Visitors
For those looking to conserve energy or add a bit of fun to their exploration, the zoo train and the skylift are excellent options. The train offers a scenic tour around the grounds, while the skylift provides a unique aerial perspective. These modes of transport are particularly beneficial for families with young children or individuals with mobility concerns, making the zoo more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
It's also worth noting that the zoo is undergoing renovations, which means some exhibits might be temporarily closed. While this can be a slight disappointment, the available attractions, combined with the train and skylift, still offer a fulfilling experience. Planning your visit during cooler parts of the day can also enhance your navigation experience.
The Mann Wildlife Learning Museum Experience
Many visitors find the museum to be a valuable addition to their zoo visit, providing a deeper understanding of animal diversity and conservation. The detailed displays offer a different perspective compared to live animal exhibits, allowing for a closer examination of anatomy and form. It's a quiet, educational space that complements the more active experience of exploring the zoo itself.
While the zoo focuses on live animals, the museum provides a static yet informative look at wildlife. It's particularly interesting for those who appreciate natural history and the art of taxidermy. The museum's presence adds significant educational value to the Montgomery Zoo experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit