Hogle Zoo
A 42-acre zoo at the base of the mountains, featuring diverse animals, tropical gardens, and family-friendly attractions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Hogle Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 42-acre zoo at the base of the mountains, featuring diverse animals, tropical gardens, and family-friendly attractions.
"Absolutely loved our visit to Hogle Zoo! This zoo is a standout attraction nestled at the base of the mountains."
🎯 Discount Days
Look for $5 admission days every weekday in December! :ticket:
🦒 Feed the Giraffes
An unforgettable experience, worth the extra cost. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giraffe Feeding
African Savanna
Get up close and personal to feed these gentle giants. A truly memorable experience!

Baby Animals
Various Exhibits
Spot adorable new arrivals like baby gorillas and giraffes. Always a crowd-pleaser!
Wild Utah Exhibit
Wild Utah
Discover native Utah wildlife, including the fascinating 'flying squirrel training'.
Big Cats & Bears
Various Exhibits
Observe lions, tigers, and bears, often more active in cooler weather.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Maximize Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Discount Days
Look for $5 admission days every weekday in December! :ticket:
🦒 Feed the Giraffes
An unforgettable experience, worth the extra cost. :moneybag:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on this 42-acre zoo. :athletic_shoe:
🧊 Pack a Cooler
Bring your own snacks and drinks to save money. :ice_cube:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Discount Days
Look for $5 admission days every weekday in December! :ticket:
🦒 Feed the Giraffes
An unforgettable experience, worth the extra cost. :moneybag:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on this 42-acre zoo. :athletic_shoe:
🧊 Pack a Cooler
Bring your own snacks and drinks to save money. :ice_cube:
☀️ Beat the Heat
Seek out shaded areas and water fans on hot days. :sunwithface:
📱 Check the Schedule
Plan around animal feedings and shows for the best experience. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hogle Zoo for its well-maintained grounds, diverse animal collection, and engaging exhibits. Many highlight the friendly staff, delicious food options, and family-friendly atmosphere. While some express general concerns about zoos, Hogle is often seen as a place that cares for its animals well and contributes to conservation efforts.
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely loved our visit to Hogle Zoo! This zoo is a standout attraction nestled at the base of the mountains, offering not only incredible views but an amazing variety of animals. From big cats and bears to sea lions and giraffes, every exhibit is thoughtfully designed and easy to explore. The animals look well cared for, and you can really tell the staff is passionate about what they do.
One thing that really stood out was the food—surprisingly delicious for a zoo! There were plenty of options, from classic favorites to healthier picks, and everything was fresh and reasonably priced. It made our visit even more enjoyable to be able to grab a great bite while relaxing in a beautiful setting.
All in all, Hogle Zoo is clean, well laid out, and packed with fun for all ages. Highly recommend spending a day here!"
DJ
"What a zoo!! So much to see! It’s huge and the areas being split up makes it very fun and unique. We got to feed giraffes, see bears swimming, orangutans do amazing things, a seal show and so many stinkin cute baby desert cats. Lots more as well! It was worth every penny to visit this zoo and it’s so well maintained. Even the Bistro and the train were cool additions we took part in. If I’m ever in the state again I’ll be sure to go back here"
Zack Maron
"Hogle Zoo is such a fun and well-kept place to spend the day! From feeding giraffes to watching sea lions and bears, every exhibit feels thoughtful and engaging. The train ride and shows add to the experience, and the food was surprisingly great for a zoo. Absolutely worth the visit!"
Rayleigh S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hogle Zoo is located at 2600 Sunstone Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84108. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options include bus routes that stop near the zoo entrance. Check UTA (Utah Transit Authority) for the most current routes and schedules.
Yes, Hogle Zoo offers parking for visitors. It can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended. There might be a parking fee, so it's good to check their official website before your visit.
Yes, you can reach Hogle Zoo via public transport. Several bus routes serve the area. It's advisable to check the UTA (Utah Transit Authority) website for the most up-to-date information on routes and schedules that will get you closest to the zoo.
The zoo is spread across 42 acres, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. You can grab a map at the entrance or use their mobile app if available. Some visitors suggest starting in one area and working your way through to avoid backtracking.
Hogle Zoo is generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The paths are paved, and most exhibits are designed with accessibility in mind. However, some areas might have inclines, so be prepared for some uphill walking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Hogle Zoo can vary. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing for adults, children, and seniors. Look out for special discount days, like the $5 admission weekdays in December, which can significantly reduce the cost of admission.
You can purchase Hogle Zoo tickets online through their official website, which is often recommended to secure your entry and potentially get better rates. Tickets can also be bought at the zoo's entrance, but online purchase is usually more convenient.
Yes, Hogle Zoo frequently offers discounts. Keep an eye out for special promotions like weekday discounts in December, or consider an annual pass if you plan to visit multiple times. Checking their website or social media pages is the best way to find current deals.
Hogle Zoo's operating hours can change seasonally. It's crucial to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours of operation for the specific day you plan to visit. They are typically open daily, but hours may vary.
Yes, Hogle Zoo offers annual passes and membership options. These can be a great value if you plan to visit frequently throughout the year, offering unlimited access and sometimes additional perks. Look for Black Friday deals on passes for significant savings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors rave about the giraffe feeding, baby animals like gorillas and giraffes, and the big cats. The Wild Utah exhibit is also a highlight, showcasing native species. Don't miss the sea lion shows if they are running!
Hogle Zoo often hosts animal shows, such as sea lion presentations, and sometimes bird shows. They also have special events throughout the year, including holiday-themed activities. Check their calendar online for schedules and details.
Beyond viewing animals, Hogle Zoo features a carousel and playgrounds that kids love. The giraffe feeding and opportunities to see baby animals are always a hit. The train ride is also a popular, albeit extra cost, attraction for families.
Yes, Hogle Zoo is considered very toddler-friendly. The zoo is manageable in size, with many engaging exhibits. The baby animals are a huge draw for little ones, and the shaded areas and cooling fans are a lifesaver on warm days.
While some visitors express concerns about zoos in general, Hogle Zoo participates in conservation efforts and breeding programs for various species. They aim to educate the public about wildlife and the importance of conservation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Hogle Zoo offers several dining options, including a main bistro. Reviewers often mention that the food is surprisingly good for a zoo, with a range of choices from classic favorites to healthier options. Prices are typical for a zoo setting.
While zoo food is generally pricey, many visitors find the food at Hogle Zoo to be reasonably priced for the quality and portion sizes. Packing your own snacks and drinks in a cooler is still a good way to save money.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is generally allowed at Hogle Zoo. Many visitors recommend packing a cooler with snacks and lunch to save money and have more control over your food choices.
While specific menus can change, zoos typically offer a variety of options that can accommodate vegetarian diets. It's best to check the current offerings at the zoo's dining facilities or inquire upon arrival for vegan choices.
The main bistro is a popular spot for a sit-down meal. There are also various snack stands throughout the zoo. Finding a shaded picnic area to enjoy your own packed lunch is also a great option.
📸 📸 Photography
The giraffe enclosure offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially during feeding times. The mountain backdrop provides a scenic element to many exhibits. Look for well-lit areas and try to capture animals in natural poses.
Try to photograph animals when they are most active, often in the morning or late afternoon. Use a zoom lens to get close-ups without disturbing the animals. Be patient and wait for the perfect moment.
Yes, video recording is generally permitted at Hogle Zoo for personal use. It's a great way to capture the sounds and movements of the animals. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the animals.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – often provide the best natural light for photography. This is also when many animals are most active.
Generally, personal cameras and phones are fine. However, professional photography or videography might require special permits. Always check the zoo's official policy if you plan to use extensive equipment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family outing, consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the biggest crowds. Bringing a cooler with snacks and drinks is a smart move to keep everyone fueled and save money. Don't forget comfortable shoes for both kids and adults, as you'll be doing plenty of walking. The train ride and carousel are extra treats that kids will adore.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food expenses, pack a cooler filled with your own snacks, drinks, and even a picnic lunch. This is a common strategy among visitors and can cut down on overall spending. Prioritize free activities like exploring the exhibits and watching animal shows over paid attractions like the train or carousel if budget is a primary concern.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best lighting and animal activity, aim for early morning or late afternoon visits. This 'golden hour' light is ideal for photography. Patience is key; wait for animals to engage in interesting behaviors. Consider bringing a zoom lens to get detailed shots without disturbing the wildlife.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Animal Exhibits
Recent additions and ongoing care mean that many enclosures are designed to mimic natural habitats, providing enrichment for the animals and an engaging experience for visitors. Keep an eye out for baby animals, as the zoo frequently welcomes new arrivals, which are always a major draw for families. The zoo's commitment to conservation is evident in its participation in breeding programs for endangered species.
Beyond the main exhibits, Hogle Zoo offers additional attractions like a carousel and a train ride, which are particularly popular with younger visitors. These add an extra layer of fun to a day at the zoo, though they often come with an additional fee.
Planning Your Visit: Tickets & Timing
To make the most of your visit and avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings. This is when you'll find fewer people, allowing for a more relaxed experience and better viewing opportunities. Visiting during the winter months can also be rewarding, as some animals are more active in cooler weather, and visitor numbers are typically lower.
Be aware of the Hogle Zoo hours, as they can vary seasonally. Always check the official website before your trip. For those looking for budget-friendly options, keep an eye out for discount days, such as the $5 admission weekdays offered in December. These deals can make a visit much more affordable.
Dining and Amenities
While the food is generally well-received, it is still zoo pricing, so it can add up. For budget-conscious visitors or those with specific dietary needs, bringing your own food and drinks in a cooler is a popular and practical strategy. This allows you to enjoy a picnic in one of the designated areas and save money.
Beyond dining, Hogle Zoo provides amenities like shaded areas and cooling fans, which are a lifesaver on hot Utah days. Restrooms are available throughout the park, and the overall cleanliness of the zoo is frequently praised by visitors.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit