Reid Park Zoo Tucson - a tree with a sign hanging from it's branches
1 / 10

Reid Park Zoo Tucson

4.6
·11k reviews·Tucson, United States

A charming and engaging zoo in Tucson, Arizona, featuring diverse animals, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly attractions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Reid Park Zoo Tucson - a tree with a sign hanging from it's branches

Reid Park Zoo Tucson

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming and engaging zoo in Tucson, Arizona, featuring diverse animals, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly attractions.

4.6
(11k reviews)

"We had an absolute blast at the Reid Park Zoo! The zoo is awesome, and we already can't wait to go back again!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early or Late

Beat the heat and crowds by arriving at opening or visiting during cooler evening events. Parking can fill up!

🦒 Feed the Giraffes!

A must-do experience! Kids (and adults!) love getting up close to feed these majestic animals.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giraffe Feeding Station

Giraffe Feeding Station

Giraffe Exhibit

Get up close and personal with these gentle giants. A truly memorable experience for all ages!

World of Play

World of Play

Children's Play Area

An immersive, nature-themed play zone where kids can explore Antarctic ice caves to rainforests.

Asian Exhibit

Asian Exhibit

Asian Animals Section

Discover a variety of animals, including elephants and tigers, in thoughtfully designed habitats.

Wild Wonders Art Installation

Wild Wonders Art Installation

Various Locations

Experience vibrant, larger-than-life sculptures celebrating wildlife in the Huichol style.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Tucson's heat can be intense. Visit early in the morning or during cooler evening events like ZooLights for a more comfortable experience. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, especially around midday when school groups might be present.

Family Fun & Interactive Experiences

Reid Park Zoo offers engaging activities like giraffe feeding and a dedicated 'World of Play' zone for younger children. Check the schedule for keeper talks and special events to maximize your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Evening Events (ZooLights)
Why
Magical holiday atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Cooler Months (Oct-Apr)
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Me tocó ir al Red Park Zoo #zootucson #redpark #arizona #tucson
@fco.javi3r
111 likes • 8.7K views

🎯 Arrive Early or Late

Beat the heat and crowds by arriving at opening or visiting during cooler evening events. Parking can fill up! Instagram

🦒 Feed the Giraffes!

A must-do experience! Kids (and adults!) love getting up close to feed these majestic animals. TikTokInstagram

Reid Park Zoo in Tucson, AZ has a station to feed the giraffe ❤️ I cant wait to go back again.
@spring_love5
92 likes • 5.3K views
Ayer visité el zoológico Reid Park Zoo, de Tucson, Arizona. 🐻🐯🐒🐍🦓🐆🐘🦏🦒 #zoo #nature #wild #animals #fyp #naturaleza #zoológico #animales
renevalram
68 likes • 4.8K views

👟 Stroller Friendly Paths

The zoo is well-maintained and easy to navigate with strollers, making it great for families with little ones. Instagram

🎟️ Check for Discounts

Look out for special event days like 'Dollar Zoo Day' or inquire about memberships for cost savings. TikTok

Family Fun in Tucson! ✨🌵 Looking for exciting activities in Tucson with the family? Here are three spots:⬇️⬇️⬇️ Cactus Springs Waterpark: Enjoy the slides, lazy river, and splash zones. Perfect for a sunny day! 💦 @funtasticksfamilyfunpark Reid Park Zoo: Feed the giraffes, see the baby elephants, and explore fun rides. A wild adventure for all ages! 🦒🐘 @reidparkzoo Golf ‘n’ Stuff: Dive into f...
az_familyadventures
379 likes • 22.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early or Late

Beat the heat and crowds by arriving at opening or visiting during cooler evening events. Parking can fill up! Instagram

🦒 Feed the Giraffes!

A must-do experience! Kids (and adults!) love getting up close to feed these majestic animals. TikTokInstagram

👟 Stroller Friendly Paths

The zoo is well-maintained and easy to navigate with strollers, making it great for families with little ones. Instagram

🎟️ Check for Discounts

Look out for special event days like 'Dollar Zoo Day' or inquire about memberships for cost savings. TikTok

📸 Capture the Moments

Bring your camera or phone to snap photos of active animals and your family's adventures. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Tucson can get hot! Bring plenty of water or plan to purchase drinks at various stands. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(11k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Reid Park Zoo for its well-maintained and spacious animal habitats, active animals, and engaging interactive experiences like giraffe feeding. The 'World of Play' area is a hit with families, and the zoo's manageable size and cleanliness are frequently highlighted. While some mention it's not the largest zoo, its charm and value make it a highly recommended destination for a fun day out.

"We went to the zoo for the first time yesterday, during the cooler 6-8 pm hours. I was very impressed with the habitats, they were spacious and provide lots of shade and places to get away from us when the animals wish to. Being from the East Coast originally we enjoyed seeing animals we had not seen in person at other zoos. The layout provided lots of walking space and provided a pleasant experience. There was lots for kids to do and a good musician performing. We will definitely be back to see the new Asian exhibit."

Jennifer Higdon

"We had an absolute blast at the Reid Park Zoo! Recently came here for the first time and was honestly blown away. The zoo is awesome, and we already can't wait to go back again!

Once you're inside, there is so much to do and see. The zoo itself is a really great size. The walking paths give you great views of all the animals. The exhibits are really nice, well kept, and pretty spacious.

We really enjoyed all the different animals that are here. Most of them were very active when we were there, which made the experience even better! There are multiple walk-in exhibits, a huge playground area for kids, zoo keeper interactive experiences, and more. Keep an eye out for a peacock, or a bunch, roaming around, too!

There is a gift shop, restaurant, and plenty of snack stands throughout the zoo as well. The whole zoo is easily accessible and very clean as well. We can't wait to come back and spend another great day at Reid Park Zoo!"

T Stoey

"Coming on a weekday right around noon. When the kids were headed out was perfect timing. You were able to enjoy the exhibits, still see lots of animals, without crazy crowds. I was super impressed with the bird exhibits and being able to sit among the exotic birds. The well, habitats are well done and you really feel pretty darn close to the animals. We come from a big city with a much bigger zoo, but this zoo is pretty awesome. Will be back for the night time program!"

Michelle Mindala

What People Like

Spacious and well-kept habitats
Active and engaging animals
Interactive experiences (giraffe feeding)

What People Dislike

Can get crowded on weekends
Tucson heat can be intense

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Reid Park Zoo is located at 3400 E Zoo Ct, Tucson, AZ 85716. 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 park. TikTok

There is parking available at the zoo, but it can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. Arriving early or considering public transport is recommended. Instagram

Yes, the zoo features stroller-friendly paths, making it convenient for families with young children. Instagram

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option for reaching Reid Park Zoo. Drop-off points are typically near the main entrance. TikTok

The zoo is designed with accessibility in mind, offering paved paths that are generally suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but general admission is typically around $10-$15 for adults and less for children. It's best to check the official Reid Park Zoo website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts. TikTokInstagram

Reid Park Zoo hours typically vary by season. It's recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit. TikTokInstagram

Yes, discounts may be available for military personnel, children, and seniors. Special event days, like 'Dollar Zoo Day,' also offer reduced admission. TikTokInstagram

Purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially for special events, to save time and guarantee entry. Visit the official Reid Park Zoo website for online ticket sales. Instagram

Yes, Reid Park Zoo offers various membership options that can provide unlimited access for a year and other benefits, which can be very cost-effective for frequent visitors. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors often rave about the elephants, giraffes (especially during feeding times), tigers, and the capybaras. The zoo also features a variety of birds and reptiles. TikTokReddit+1

Absolutely! The 'World of Play' is a major attraction, offering an interactive nature-themed play zone. Giraffe feeding and other keeper talks also engage younger visitors. TikTokInstagram

This is a new, immersive, nature-themed play area designed for children of all ages and abilities, featuring sensory exhibits, climbing structures, and slides. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can feed the giraffes at a designated station for an additional fee. This is a very popular and interactive experience. TikTokInstagram

Reid Park Zoo hosts various events throughout the year, including 'Boo at the Zoo' for Halloween and 'ZooLights' during the holiday season. Check their website for event schedules. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The zoo offers a gift shop, a restaurant, and several snack stands throughout the park, providing a range of options for visitors. Reddit

While specific policies can change, it's generally advisable to check the zoo's official guidelines regarding outside food and beverages. Some visitors mention bringing snacks. TikTok

Information on specific dietary options can be limited. It's best to inquire directly with the food vendors at the zoo or pack your own suitable meals if you have specific dietary needs. Reddit

Yes, Reid Park Zoo has a restaurant and various snack stands, some of which may offer seating areas for guests to enjoy their food. Reddit

Reid Park Zoo is a popular venue for birthday parties and other private events. Contact their events department for booking information and packages. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The giraffe exhibit, elephant habitats, and the 'World of Play' area offer great photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for peacocks roaming freely! InstagramReddit

Typically, drones are not permitted within zoo grounds due to safety regulations and the potential disturbance to animals. Always check the zoo's official policy. TikTok

Visitors often capture photos of the animals, family interactions, and the zoo's unique art installations like 'Wild Wonders.' InstagramReddit

Many exhibits are designed to provide good viewing angles. Animals can be active, so patience and a good zoom lens can be helpful for capturing clear shots. Reddit

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Reid Park Zoo is a top-tier choice for families. The 'World of Play' offers an engaging, sensory-rich environment for children, while the giraffe feeding station provides an unforgettable interactive experience. The zoo's layout is stroller-friendly, and many animals are quite active, keeping little ones entertained. TikTokInstagram+1

Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds and the peak heat. Pack plenty of snacks and water, or utilize the on-site food options. The zoo's manageable size makes it less overwhelming for younger children compared to larger institutions. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Reid Park Zoo offers good value, especially with its reasonable admission prices. Look out for special 'Dollar Zoo Day' events for significant savings. TikTok Purchasing a membership can also be cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple times a year. Reddit

While there are food vendors, bringing your own water bottles and some snacks can help reduce on-site spending. Weekday visits generally mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience without the premium weekend pricing. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The zoo provides numerous opportunities for capturing stunning wildlife photos. The well-designed habitats offer good viewing angles, and animals like elephants, tigers, and giraffes are popular subjects. Reddit Don't miss the chance to photograph the 'Wild Wonders' art installations for a unique artistic flair. Instagram

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for softer lighting and potentially more active animals. Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography to avoid disturbing the animals. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Animal Habitats

Reid Park Zoo is home to a diverse range of animals, with exhibits designed to mimic their natural environments. Visitors frequently praise the spaciousness and thoughtful design of these habitats, noting that animals often have ample room to roam and retreat. This allows for a more natural viewing experience, where animals are often active and engaged. Reddit

Key areas include the Asian exhibit, featuring elephants and tigers, and the African savanna section. The zoo also boasts impressive bird exhibits, where visitors can sometimes walk among exotic species. For those interested in smaller creatures, the dart frog exhibit has recently undergone renovations, showcasing vibrant displays. Instagram

Many visitors highlight the active nature of the animals during their visits, attributing this to the well-maintained and enriching environments. The zoo also emphasizes its commitment to conservation and educating the public about the animals in its care, with animal care specialists often available to share insights. Instagram

Family Fun and Play Zones

Reid Park Zoo is a fantastic destination for families, with several attractions specifically designed for children. The 'World of Play' is a standout feature, an immersive, nature-themed play zone that allows kids to explore different environments like rainforests and ice caves. This area is designed to be sensory-rich and accessible for children of all ages and abilities. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the dedicated play area, the zoo offers interactive experiences such as giraffe feeding, which is a consistent crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. The presence of playful baby elephants and other young animals also adds to the excitement for younger visitors. InstagramReddit

The zoo's layout is also conducive to family outings, with wide paths that are stroller-friendly, making it easy to navigate with little ones. Many reviewers mention their children having an absolute blast and wanting to return, highlighting the zoo's success in creating a fun and engaging experience for the whole family. InstagramReddit

Special Events and Seasonal Attractions

Reid Park Zoo comes alive with special events throughout the year, offering unique experiences beyond the daily animal encounters. 'Boo at the Zoo' is a popular Halloween event, transforming the park into a festive, family-friendly haunt with trick-or-treating and themed activities. Instagram

During the holiday season, 'ZooLights' transforms the zoo into a dazzling winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy festive decorations, live music, hot chocolate, and interactive holiday activities, creating a magical atmosphere for all ages. Instagram

These events often draw larger crowds but provide a distinct and memorable way to experience the zoo. It's advisable to check the zoo's official website for specific dates, times, and ticket information for these popular seasonal attractions. Instagram

You may also like