The Kansas City Zoo is a popular attraction located in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri. In addition to the zoo, there are many other things to do around the city, such as visiting the nearby Kansas City Amusement Park and Oceans of Fun Kansas City. In this post, I will try to provide an overview of the Kansas City Zoo, including its hours of operation, ticket prices, parking options, food policies, and other things to do in the area.

Kansas City Zoo Hours

The regular operating hours of the Kansas City Zoo are from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm on weekdays and 9:30 am to 5:00 pm on weekends. However, it’s important to note that the zoo may have special hours during holidays or special events, so it’s always a good idea to check the zoo’s website or call ahead before visiting. Checking the hours beforehand can save you time and ensure that you have enough time to see all of the exhibits.

Ticket Prices and Parking

The Kansas City Zoo offers a variety of admission tickets, including individual tickets, group tickets, and annual memberships. The ticket prices vary depending on the age of the visitor, with adults costing $18.00, children (ages 3-11) costing $15.00, and seniors (ages 55 and over) costing $17.00. There are also discounts available for military members, first responders, and educators. In terms of parking, there are several options available at the zoo. Parking in the main lot costs $5.00 per vehicle, while overflow parking in a nearby lot costs $7.00 per vehicle. Visitors can also find free street parking nearby, but it can be limited during peak times.

Walking Through the Zoo

The Kansas City Zoo is home to over 1,700 animals and features several different exhibits. Some of these exhibits include the African Sky Safari, Helzberg Penguin Plaza, and the Tiger Trail. The zoo is spread out over 202 acres. It can take several hours to see everything. Visitors can expect to spend anywhere from 2-4 hours walking through the zoo. This time varies depending on their pace and interest in the exhibits. Some of the must-see exhibits include the Polar Bear Passage, Orangutan Canopy, and the Koala Exhibit.

African Plains Exhibit

The African Plains exhibit is one of the most popular attractions at the Kansas City Zoo. This exhibit spans over 18 acres and features a variety of animals from the African savanna, including giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs. Visitors can observe the animals from multiple viewpoints, including a boardwalk that takes them over the savanna for an immersive experience.

The giraffes are a highlight of the exhibit, and visitors can even feed them during certain times of the day. The zebras are also a favorite among visitors, with their distinctive stripes and playful personalities. The cheetahs are another must-see animal in the exhibit, with their impressive speed and agility.

In addition to these main attractions, the African Plains exhibit also features a variety of other African animals, including ostriches, gazelles, and wildebeests. There are also informative signs throughout the exhibit that provide interesting facts about the animals and their natural habitats.

Overall, the African Plains exhibit offers a unique opportunity to see some of Africa’s most iconic animals up close and in person. It’s a must-visit for any animal lover or anyone looking for an exciting and educational experience at the Kansas City Zoo.

Kansas City Zoo Food and Drink Policies

Visitors are allowed to bring food and drinks into the zoo. Glass containers, alcohol, and straws are not permitted in the park for obvious reasons. There are also several food options available at the zoo, including a food court, snack stands, and several restaurants. Visitors can choose from a variety of foods, such as burgers, pizza, salads, and ice cream.

Other Attractions in the Area

In addition to the Kansas City Zoo, there are several other attractions in the area that are worth checking out. One of the most popular is the nearby Kansas City Amusement Park. Worlds of Fun. It features several rides, games, and water attractions. Another popular attraction is Oceans of Fun Kansas City. This is a water park that is open during the summer months that is located next to Worlds of Fun. There are also several museums, parks, and shopping centers in the area that visitors can explore.

The Kansas City Zoo is a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. By following these tips and recommendations, you can make the most of your visit and enjoy all that the zoo has to offer. Additionally, there are plenty of other things to do in the area. Be sure to explore all that Kansas City has to offer. You can visit the Kansas City Zoo website here

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