Peoria Zoo
Discover over 100 global species, including tigers and giraffes, at this charming zoo in Glen Oak Park. Enjoy unique exhibits and memorable animal enc...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Peoria Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover over 100 global species, including tigers and giraffes, at this charming zoo in Glen Oak Park. Enjoy unique exhibits and memorable animal encounters.
"What a treasure to our community! ...did you know you can get married here and have your reception?!"
🎯 Budget-Friendly Fun
A zoo membership can save you money, making family outings very affordable. :moneybag:
💧 Splash Zone Alert!
Watch out for the lemur's 'splash zone' when they cross the bridge! :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nikita the Tiger
Tiger Exhibit
Meet Nikita, the zoo's charming tiger, and learn about her personality from her keepers.
Australian Walkabout
Australian Walkabout
Experience emus and wallabies roaming freely in this unique exhibit where visitors stay on the path.
Giraffe Feeding
African Exhibits
A memorable experience where you can get up close and personal with the zoo's giraffes.
Lemur Splash Zone
Lemur Exhibit
Be prepared for a fun surprise when lemurs cross the bridge, offering a refreshing 'splash zone' experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Membership Magic
Event Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Budget-Friendly Fun
A zoo membership can save you money, making family outings very affordable.
💧 Splash Zone Alert!
Watch out for the lemur's 'splash zone' when they cross the bridge! :droplet:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The zoo is a unique spot for photos, even weddings! Capture memorable moments. :camerawithflash:
💡 Learn from Keepers
Engage with keepers to learn fascinating facts about the animals. :bulb:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Budget-Friendly Fun
A zoo membership can save you money, making family outings very affordable.
💧 Splash Zone Alert!
Watch out for the lemur's 'splash zone' when they cross the bridge! :droplet:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The zoo is a unique spot for photos, even weddings! Capture memorable moments. :camerawithflash:
💡 Learn from Keepers
Engage with keepers to learn fascinating facts about the animals. :bulb:
🎟️ Check Event Details
Review event specifics and pricing online to avoid surprises. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Peoria Zoo is a cherished community gem, praised for its unique exhibits like the Australian Walkabout and opportunities for animal encounters such as giraffe feeding. While some visitors find special events pricey, the zoo's charm and educational value make it a worthwhile stop, especially for families seeking budget-friendly fun with a membership.
"This place doesn’t even deserve any stars. The zoo here is just a big scam and the zootober event was the worse experience ever. They were stingy with the candy, half the food and drinks were expensive too. The “family events” which were just coloring was atleast a little fun, they weren’t too creative with this, I’ve seen school events better than this. Mind you, it’s 15 for each person so it all came up to around 60 there was no price different with kids and adults. The decorations were just giving “I’m too lazy”. I was very upset about this whole thing cause I spent around 63. They also don’t explain enough on the website, like prices of things. If you should bring your own buckets or if they have bags, what type of events they are going to have and so on. The person that wrote out everything about the event was lazy. I wish I could get a refund cause the whole thing was terrible and my siblings were upset."
Mari Hampton
"We always stop here on our annual road trips east. Is it's small (compared to what we are used to in Omah), quaint, and fun! My kids love it!
We really enjoy the Australian Walkabout with the emu and the wallabies where they are free roaming and the humans are confined to the path.
There are numerous opportunities to learn and see a variety of different species.
It will continue to be a regular stop for us to enjoy this gem in Peoria."
Bob Andersen
"What a treasure to our community! ...did you know you can get married here and have your reception?! It is truly one of the most unique places I have photographed. Feeling the giraffes is such a cool memory! I can't wait to be back here photographing weddings!"
Photography by Erin B.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Peoria Zoo is located within Glen Oak Park. You can typically drive and park nearby. Check local transit options if you're not driving.
Yes, there is parking available at Glen Oak Park, which is adjacent to the zoo. During peak times or special events, parking might be more challenging.
The zoo is accessible via major roads in Peoria, IL. Using a GPS or mapping app is recommended for real-time traffic updates.
Information on public transportation routes to Glen Oak Park can be found on the Peoria Park District website or local transit authority schedules.
The zoo is generally accessible, with paved paths throughout most of the grounds. Strollers and wheelchairs are commonly seen.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary. While some sources mention a $9 family price with a membership, general admission prices should be checked on the official Peoria Zoo website for the most current rates.
Admission costs for the Peoria Zoo should be verified on their official website. Some visitors have noted that prices can be around $15 per person for special events.
It's advisable to check the Peoria Zoo's official website for online ticket purchasing options, which can often save time.
Peoria Zoo hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Peoria Zoo website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, the Peoria Zoo offers memberships, which can provide significant savings for frequent visitors and families.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss Nikita the tiger, the free-roaming emus and wallabies in the Australian Walkabout, and the giraffes for feeding opportunities. +1
The zoo offers interactive experiences like giraffe feeding and the unique Australian Walkabout. Be prepared for the lemur's 'splash zone'! +1
Mornings are often best for seeing animals active, as they tend to be more energetic before the heat of the day.
Yes, the Peoria Zoo is generally considered a fun and engaging place for children, with various animals and interactive elements.
Specific animal feeding opportunities, like with the giraffes, are available. Always follow zoo guidelines for any feeding activities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options can include snacks and drinks. Some visitors have noted that prices for food and drinks can be on the higher side.
It's recommended to check the Peoria Zoo's policy on outside food and beverages before your visit. Picnic areas might be available.
Being located in Glen Oak Park, there may be dining options within the park or in the surrounding Peoria area.
Some reviews suggest that food and drink prices at the zoo can be expensive, so budgeting accordingly is advised.
The zoo typically has concessions available for snacks and drinks. Specific details can be found on their website.
📸 📸 Photography
The Australian Walkabout with its free-roaming animals and the giraffe feeding area offer unique photo opportunities. The zoo itself is also a picturesque location. +1
Yes, the zoo is a popular venue for photography, including professional shoots like weddings. Check their policies for specific requirements.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional shoots or commercial use might require permits or prior arrangements.
A camera with good zoom capabilities is helpful for capturing animal details. A smartphone is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
Lighting can vary depending on the time of day and weather. Mornings often provide softer light. Indoor exhibits may have lower light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will love the chance to see animals like Nikita the tiger and experience the unique Australian Walkabout.Be prepared for the unexpected 'splash zone' from the lemurs, which is always a hit with younger visitors!
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for opportunities to visit during off-peak hours, like weekday mornings, to enjoy the zoo without the highest crowds.While some visitors have noted that food and drink prices can be a bit high,
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during early mornings for softer lighting and potentially more active animals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Animal Kingdom
The zoo's layout encourages exploration, with distinct areas showcasing different regions and animal groups. Keepers are often on hand to share insights and answer questions, enriching the visitor experience. Special exhibits, like the African installations, offer a glimpse into different ecosystems and the animals that call them home.
Beyond the main exhibits, the Peoria Zoo often hosts special events and educational programs. These can range from seasonal celebrations to keeper talks, providing opportunities for deeper learning and interaction. Always check their schedule for upcoming activities.
Making the Most of Your Visit: Tips from Visitors
This makes spontaneous outings and repeat explorations much more accessible.When attending special events like Zootober, be aware that some visitors have found them to be pricey with limited offerings, particularly regarding candy and food.
For a more intimate experience with the animals, visiting during weekday mornings is often suggested. This is when crowds are typically lower, and animals tend to be more active and visible.
Peoria Zoo as a Venue
Photographers find the zoo to be a treasure trove of picturesque backdrops. From the free-roaming wallabies to the towering giraffes, there are countless opportunities to capture stunning images.
Beyond weddings, the zoo also hosts other family outings and events.
While some events might have mixed reviews regarding value, the overall atmosphere of the zoo provides a delightful backdrop for creating lasting memories. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit