
Sedgwick County Zoo
Explore diverse animal habitats from around the globe, featuring adorable baby elephants and chimpanzees, plus enchanting Wild Lights displays.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & see active animals

Sedgwick County Zoo
Best Time
Beat the heat & see active animals

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore diverse animal habitats from around the globe, featuring adorable baby elephants and chimpanzees, plus enchanting Wild Lights displays.
"A top-notch zoo and a fantastic value, offering an amazing day out with world-class habitats."

🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save money and time by purchasing your Sedgwick County Zoo tickets online in advance .
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is large; expect a lot of walking to see all the animals .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baby Elephants
African Elephant Exhibit
Witness the adorable antics of multiple baby elephants, including Bomani and Kijani, who have captured hearts .

Chimpanzee Family
Chimpanzee Exhibit
See young chimpanzees like Kyansa and Alizeti learning to crawl and play, showcasing their developing social skills .

Wild Lights
Throughout the Zoo
Experience the zoo transformed into a magical wonderland with Asian-inspired lantern sculptures during this popular holiday event .

World-Class Habitats
Africa, South America, Australia
Explore meticulously designed exhibits that offer immersive experiences for both animals and visitors .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets Online & Arrive Early
Check for Closures & Animal Activity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save money and time by purchasing your Sedgwick County Zoo tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is large; expect a lot of walking to see all the animals.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Arrive early, especially on sunny days, to see animals when they're most active and avoid the midday heat.
📱 Check Zoo Website
Verify exhibit closures or special event schedules before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save money and time by purchasing your Sedgwick County Zoo tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is large; expect a lot of walking to see all the animals.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Arrive early, especially on sunny days, to see animals when they're most active and avoid the midday heat.
📱 Check Zoo Website
Verify exhibit closures or special event schedules before your visit to avoid disappointment.
🦒 Feed the Giraffes
An interactive experience that's a hit with visitors of all ages.
💡 Plan for a Full Day
There's so much to see and do, you'll want to dedicate an entire day to explore.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sedgwick County Zoo for its beautiful, clean grounds and world-class animal habitats, especially the popular baby elephants and chimpanzees. While some note the extensive walking and occasional animal inactivity, the overall experience is considered a fantastic value and a top-notch destination for all ages.
"Had a wonderful Saturday exploring the Sedgwick County Zoo with two friends! We booked our tickets online, which I highly recommend—it was simple and saved us $25 total ($5 per ticket) compared to the gate price.
The zoo itself is beautiful and was decorated with these incredible, giant animal lanterns from some kind of special event. The snow leopard and butterfly displays we saw were a magical touch and made the walkways even more fun.
We spent most of our day exploring the Africa, South America, and Australia sections, and the habitats are truly world-class.
A few tips for your visit:
Arrive Early! The zoo is HUGE. We weren't able to see the North America section because we ran out of time. To cover everything without rushing, I'd say the best time to get there is between 10 and 11 AM.
Check for Closures: We were disappointed to find the Cessna Penguin Cove was closed for maintenance. It’s probably a good idea to check their website before you go.
Animal Naps are Real: It was a sunny day, so the lion and tiger were snoozing in the shade, and we couldn't find the red panda. It happens, but if you want to see them active, an earlier or cooler day might be better!
Even with the few things we missed, it was an amazing day out. It’s a top-notch zoo and a fantastic value."
Raj Kopuru
"Beautiful, clean, fun. Expect a lot of walking so the earlier you go to beat the heat, the better. Probably a good idea to wear a hat or use sunscreen too. Loved seeing the animals up close. The gift shop was very nice too. We bought our tickets online and saved some money."
pav413
"Big area with lots of walking. Had a few exotic amimal . Wish they had more viewing of the big game but were mostly camouflaged by too many obstacles in the way . They need more indoor viewings. more single directional signs instead of multi signs . Enjoyed the different decoration. Should post signs at the entrance of closed exhibits. Employees were awesome. Bit pricey for the selections of animals. About 50.00 dollars for 2 adults. Tomorrow, Omaha's zoo. we'll have to see the difference. Indoor lighting needs adjustments too much reflection on glass. Over-all good"
Pedro Sanchez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sedgwick County Zoo is located at 5555 W Zoo Blvd, Wichita, KS 67212.
It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is generally recommended for visitors coming from outside the immediate Wichita area.Yes, Sedgwick County Zoo offers parking for visitors. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons or special events, to secure a convenient spot.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at the zoo's entrance. This can be a convenient option if you're not driving.
The zoo is generally accessible, with paved pathways throughout. Motorized scooters are also available for rent for those who need them.
From downtown Wichita, take I-235 North to the Zoo Boulevard exit. Turn west onto Zoo Boulevard, and the zoo will be on your right. Always check a GPS for real-time traffic updates.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but booking online in advance often provides a discount compared to purchasing at the gate.
Check the official Sedgwick County Zoo website for the most current pricing for adults, children, and seniors. Sedgwick County Zoo prices are generally considered a good value for the experience.You can purchase Sedgwick County Zoo tickets online through their official website, which is highly recommended to save money.
Tickets are also available for purchase at the zoo's entrance, but may be more expensive.Look for online booking discounts.
The zoo may offer special promotions or military discounts; checking their website or contacting them directly is the best way to find current offers. Sedgwick County Zoo discount days are not always advertised, so online booking is key.Sedgwick County Zoo hours typically vary by season. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit, as they can change.
Yes, Sedgwick County Zoo offers membership options that can provide benefits like free admission for a year and discounts on special events. This can be a great value for frequent visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors rave about the baby elephants
and the young chimpanzees like Kyansa. Other popular exhibits include the African lions, tigers, and the snow leopard display.Yes, Sedgwick County Zoo features a petting zoo area, offering a hands-on experience for younger visitors to interact with friendly farm animals.
Beyond the petting zoo, kids can enjoy a train ride through the zoo and a boat ride on the river.
The zoo also has interactive exhibits and plenty of space to explore.Yes, motorized scooters and possibly strollers are available for rent at the zoo. This is a great option for those who need assistance with mobility.
Wild Lights is a popular holiday event where the zoo is transformed with thousands of Asian-inspired lantern sculptures and light displays.
It typically runs from mid-October through December.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The zoo offers various dining options, including cafes and snack stands. You can also purchase a cup for $10 that provides free refills for the day.
Generally, outside food and drinks are permitted at Sedgwick County Zoo, but it's always a good idea to check their specific policy on their website. This can be a great way to save money.
Yes, there are several restaurants located near Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, KS, offering a range of cuisines for visitors looking for dining options outside the zoo.
While specific menus can change, most zoo eateries offer a selection of items that can accommodate vegetarian diets. Vegan options may be more limited, so checking with the food vendor on-site is recommended.
Yes, Sedgwick County Zoo has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, animal-themed merchandise, and other items.
📸 📸 Photography
The baby elephants are incredibly photogenic,
as are the young chimpanzees. The Wild Lights event offers stunning nighttime photo opportunities. The diverse habitats also provide beautiful backdrops.Typically, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography for commercial purposes may require special permits. It's best to contact the zoo's media relations department for clarification.
While generally permitted, avoid using flash photography near sensitive animals, as it can disturb them. Also, be mindful of other visitors and do not block pathways while taking photos.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing clear shots of animals. The Wild Lights event provides unique opportunities for evening photography.
The African Elephant exhibit with the babies,
the Chimpanzee enclosure, and the open bird exhibits are often highlighted for their photographic potential.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family visit, arrive early to beat the crowds and heat, and wear comfortable shoes for all the walking. Checking the zoo's website for any exhibit closures beforehand can help manage expectations. The zoo's clean facilities and scattered restrooms also make it convenient for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
While admission has a cost, the zoo offers a full day of entertainment and educational experiences. Look out for any potential discount days or membership benefits if you plan to visit multiple times. The sheer variety of animals and exhibits provides excellent value for the admission price.
💑 Couples & Date Nights
For a truly romantic evening, the Wild Lights event during the holiday season is a must. Wandering through the illuminated zoo under the stars creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for a memorable date night. Booking tickets in advance is recommended for this popular event.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Baby Animals
Similarly, the chimpanzee troop has welcomed new additions like Kyansa, who has been documented learning to crawl and interact with her mother, Mahale. The zoo's veterinary team and animal care staff play a crucial role in ensuring the health and development of these young animals, often sharing updates on their progress. The emotional reunion between Mahale and her newborn Kucheza after a difficult birth also garnered international attention, highlighting the deep bonds within animal families.
These baby animal stories not only bring joy to visitors but also underscore the zoo's commitment to conservation and breeding programs. Seeing these young animals thrive is a testament to the dedicated care provided by the Sedgwick County Zoo team, making it a truly special place for animal lovers.
Wild Lights: A Festive Transformation
The event typically runs from mid-October through December, offering a unique opportunity to experience the zoo in a different light. It's a perfect destination for families, couples, and anyone looking to embrace the festive spirit. The intricate designs of the lanterns, often depicting animals and natural scenes, create a breathtaking spectacle. It's advisable to purchase tickets in advance for Wild Lights, as it's a highly anticipated event that draws large crowds.
Wild Lights provides a memorable evening out, combining the wonder of the zoo with the magic of holiday lights. It's a chance to see familiar exhibits in a completely new and dazzling perspective, making it a must-visit during the festive season in Wichita.
Navigating the Zoo: Tips for a Great Visit
Comfortable footwear is essential, as the zoo involves a significant amount of walking. Visitors also recommend checking the zoo's website for any exhibit closures or maintenance schedules before arriving to prevent disappointment, such as the closure of the Penguin Cove mentioned by one reviewer. The zoo's layout is organized by continent, making it easier to explore specific regions, but it's still a large area to cover in a single visit.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience or with mobility challenges, renting a motorized scooter is a viable option. The zoo also offers interactive experiences like feeding the giraffes and stingrays, which are highly recommended for adding an extra layer of engagement to the visit. Overall, a well-planned visit, considering the zoo's size and animal activity patterns, ensures a rewarding experience.
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