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5 Must-Visit Aquariums and Zoos in the United States

Plus how to save on tickets at the San Diego Zoo, Zoo Atlanta and more!

By Macaroni KID March 1, 2023

Whether you're looking for a local destination or planning a cross-country road trip, there are plenty of amazing places to explore and discover the wonders of the animal kingdom with your kids, from the towering giraffes of the African savannah to the colorful schools of fish in the depths of the ocean.

Here are 5 of our favorite zoos and aquariums across the country to see animals ... plus we've got some GREAT ways to save on tickets from our friends at CertifiKID!


San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is a must-see in Southern California. Winding paths through the tropical oasis of a botanical garden bring you to more than 4,000 rare and fascinating animals, including koalas, Galápagos tortoises, tigers, eagles, and more. Our favorite experience? The San Diego Zoo Safari Park immerses you in an active, hands-on safari experience where herds of animals roam natural habitats in a 1,800-acre reserve. Choose from a variety of exciting safari expeditions by tram, caravan truck, electric cart, zip line, and more, all with expert guides and fascinating animal information.

San Diego Zoo and Safari Park - Save Over 15% 

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Zoo Tampa

When in Florida, don't forget to find some wildlife. We recommend Zoo Tampa where you can get up close and personal with wildlife from around the globe. And if you're a sucker for sick and injured panthers, it's the number one facility in the world for their care. Not to mention one of only four manatee rehab locations. There's so much to see and learn in this lush tropical zoo your crew is sure to love.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park - Save 20% 

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 Alexas_Fotos from Pixabay

CertifiKID has great deals on zoos and aquariums across the country: See the full list! 


Phoenix Zoo

Beat the desert heat on 125 acres of zoo-tastic fun. With over 3000 animals and 400 unique species, it's sure to check off the must-see's from everyone's list. Plus with special attractions like Stingray Bay and the Giraffe Encounter, it'll be a day to remember.

Phoenix Zoo - Save Over 15% 

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Zoo Atlanta

Currently the only zoo in the US with giant pandas, Zoo Atlanta is a can't-miss stop for animal lovers. Don't forget to check out the children's zoo with plenty of curious creatures to hug and snuggle. Or the African Savanna exhibit that'll have you feeling like a world traveler. 1500 animals and minutes from downtown, we'll be there.

Zoo Atlanta - Save 10% 

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Bronx Zoo

The Big Apple is home to so many amazing attractions, but be sure to add the Bronx Zoo to your bucket list. It's one of the largest zoos in the US and the biggest metropolitan zoo in the country. With 11,000 animals ranging from tiny toads to big cats, it really does have it all. Visiting with animals and nature makes this the perfect spot to unwind and let the kids get a little wild.

Bronx Zoo - Save Over 15% 

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