Virginia Zoo Norfolk
Discover over 700 animals from 150+ species at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk. Enjoy gardens, tours, and family fun!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Virginia Zoo Norfolk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover over 700 animals from 150+ species at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk. Enjoy gardens, tours, and family fun!
"A wonderful experience with well-organized exhibits and a peaceful vibe, perfect for families and solo visitors."
🎯 Senior Wednesday Free Admission
Seniors get in free on Wednesdays! A great way to save money and enjoy the zoo.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo has a convenient loop trail, but you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
African Elephant Habitat
Africa
Witness these magnificent creatures in a spacious, naturalistic setting. A truly awe-inspiring sight!
Orangutan Exhibit
See playful orangutans, including adorable babies, in their treetop home. A heartwarming experience for all ages.
Reptile House
Explore a fascinating collection of snakes, lizards, and other cold-blooded creatures. A cool escape on a warm day.
Zoo Train
Hop aboard the electric Virginia Zoo Express for a scenic and relaxing ride around the park. Fun for the whole family!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting Around the Zoo
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Senior Wednesday Free Admission
Seniors get in free on Wednesdays! A great way to save money and enjoy the zoo.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo has a convenient loop trail, but you'll be doing a lot of walking.
🚆 Ride the Zoo Train
The new electric train is a fun and relaxing way to see the park.
☀️ Plenty of Shade
Enjoy ample shade throughout the zoo, making it comfortable even on hot days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Senior Wednesday Free Admission
Seniors get in free on Wednesdays! A great way to save money and enjoy the zoo.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo has a convenient loop trail, but you'll be doing a lot of walking.
🚆 Ride the Zoo Train
The new electric train is a fun and relaxing way to see the park.
☀️ Plenty of Shade
Enjoy ample shade throughout the zoo, making it comfortable even on hot days.
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save time and hassle by purchasing your tickets online in advance.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Guaranteed
A fantastic spot for family outings with engaging exhibits for kids. +1
🐘 Check for Animal Encounters
Look for opportunities for personal encounters and educational talks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Virginia Zoo for its clean, well-organized layout and the ample living conditions provided for its animals. Many highlight the enjoyable experience of seeing animals up close in naturalistic settings and appreciate the convenience of the loop trail and the fun zoo train. While some find it smaller than other zoos, the overall sentiment is positive, with many recommending it for families and a pleasant day outdoors.
"My husband and I visited on a Wednesday, senior citizens can get tickets to enter free on Wednesdays. The zoo was laid out in a very convenient pattern. There was plenty of shade. The animals have ample living conditions. A very pleasant experience"
Caroline Guillemette
"What a wonderful experience at the Virginia Zoo!
I bought my tickets online—super convenient and easy to use. Once inside, everything was well-organized, clean, and inviting. I loved walking through the beautiful garden areas filled with colorful flowers—it really added to the peaceful vibe.
Watching the animals up close was such a joy. Each exhibit was thoughtfully designed and gave a great view of the animals in a natural setting. One of the highlights was riding the zoo train for just $3—such a fun way to relax and take in the scenery.
A perfect place for families, friends, or solo visitors. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a lovely day outdoors with nature and wildlife!"
Chida S.
"Always a great experience. Love the zoo workers who teach about certain animals. Best zoo to check out rhinos, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, and tigers!
Food court is ok, but plenty of food options around the zoo. It takes rough 1.5 hours to 2 hours to tour the whole zoo."
Katie VanMeter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Virginia Zoo is located at 3500 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23504. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the Granby Street area. 
Yes, the Virginia Zoo offers on-site parking for visitors. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on busy days, to secure a spot.
While specific routes can vary, it's advisable to check with the local Norfolk transit authority for bus or other public transport options that service the Granby Street area near the zoo.
The zoo is laid out with a convenient loop trail, making it easy to explore on foot. For a more relaxed experience, consider riding the new electric zoo train.
The zoo is generally accessible with paved paths and a loop trail. Many exhibits are designed to be viewed from accessible vantage points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for the Virginia Zoo typically range from $17-$20 for adults and children, with younger children often free. Check the official Virginia Zoo website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Yes, seniors can enjoy free admission on Wednesdays. Military veterans also receive free admission. Keep an eye out for special events or member swap days for potential savings.
Absolutely! Purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended for convenience and to save time upon arrival.
The Virginia Zoo is typically open daily from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM. It's always best to verify the current hours on their official website before your visit, as they can change seasonally.
Yes, the Virginia Zoo offers various membership options, including family memberships, which can provide great value if you plan to visit multiple times a year.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors often rave about the African elephants, orangutans (especially babies!), lions, giraffes, and tigers. The reptile house is also a popular attraction.
Yes, the Virginia Zoo has a petting zoo area where visitors can interact with and pet animals like goats.
Beyond animal exhibits, kids can enjoy the zoo train, educational talks, and the nature discovery zone. Some reviews suggest a better play area would be a welcome addition. +1
Most visitors find that it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to tour the entire zoo. Some may spend longer if they take advantage of special programs or enjoy a leisurely pace.
Yes, there is a food court available, and reviews suggest there are also plenty of food options around the zoo. Bringing your own snacks and water is also a good idea.
📸 📸 Photography
The diverse habitats, from the African savanna to the lush gardens, offer many picturesque opportunities. The orangutan exhibit and the elephants are particularly photogenic. +1
Generally, personal photography is allowed. For professional shoots or commercial use, it's best to contact the zoo directly to inquire about their policies and any necessary permits.
While specific restrictions are not widely publicized, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography that might disturb the animals.
A versatile zoom lens is ideal for capturing animals at various distances. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the zoo's gardens and habitats.
The zoo's well-designed exhibits often provide naturalistic backdrops. Look for opportunities to capture animals interacting with their environment or with each other.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider packing snacks and drinks to keep energy levels high. While there's a petting zoo, some visitors suggest a more developed play area would be a great addition. Overall, it's a well-rounded experience that offers both fun and educational opportunities for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there are food options, packing your own snacks and water can significantly cut down on expenses. The zoo's manageable size means you can see a lot in a few hours, making it a cost-effective way to spend an afternoon.
❤️ Couples and Date Ideas
Consider visiting during a weekday evening if the zoo offers extended hours, or pack a picnic to enjoy in a scenic spot. It's a great way to connect and create lasting memories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Virginia Zoo's Animal Collection
Visitors often highlight the well-maintained exhibits that aim to provide a naturalistic environment for the animals. The zoo's commitment to conservation is evident in its breeding programs and educational initiatives. Keep an eye out for specific species that are frequently mentioned as highlights, such as the orangutans and the various big cats.
While the zoo is considered smaller than some larger metropolitan zoos, its manageable size makes it ideal for a focused and enjoyable visit. The layout encourages exploration, and many visitors appreciate the opportunity to see a wide variety of animals in a relatively compact space.
Family Fun and Activities at the Norfolk Zoo
+1Beyond the animal encounters, the zoo often hosts special events and educational programs. These can include keeper talks, animal feeding demonstrations, and seasonal celebrations. The petting zoo area also provides a hands-on experience for younger visitors.
While many families have a wonderful time, some reviews suggest that a more robust play area could enhance the experience for children. However, the overall consensus is that the Virginia Zoo offers a delightful and memorable day out for families looking for engaging activities in the Norfolk area.
Visiting the Virginia Zoo: Practical Tips and Insights
Comfortable footwear is essential, as the zoo features a loop trail that covers a significant area. Bringing water bottles and snacks is also a good idea, although food options are available within the zoo and in the surrounding area.
For those looking to save money, take advantage of free admission days for seniors on Wednesdays and free entry for military veterans. Purchasing tickets online in advance can also streamline your entry.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit