St. Louis Zoo

The St. Louis Zoo is one of the most iconic zoos in the country, and for a good reason. With over 90 acres of beautifully landscaped parkland, the zoo is home to over 18,000 animals representing 600 species worldwide. This world-class zoo has something for everyone, from big majestic cats to exotic primates.

One of the things that makes the St. Louis Zoo so unique is its commitment to conservation and education. The zoo is a leader in conservation efforts, protecting endangered species and their habitats worldwide. The zoo’s WildCare Institute has worked on over 500 conservation projects in 60 countries. The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages, from summer camps to behind-the-scenes tours.

The St. Louis Zoo is divided into several areas, each with unique exhibits and animals. The River’s Edge area is home to elephants, rhinos, hippos, and other animals that live along the world’s great rivers. The Discovery Corner area is perfect for families with young children, with interactive exhibits and a petting zoo. The Big Cat Country area is home to lions, tigers, and cheetahs, while the Bird House features a variety of exotic birds from around the world.

One of the zoo’s most popular exhibits is the Penguin & Puffin Coast, home to over 80 penguins and 20 puffins. Visitors can watch the penguins dive and swim through the water, or catch a glimpse of the puffins as they dart through the air. The exhibit is designed to replicate the birds’ natural habitats in the wild, providing visitors with a unique and immersive experience.

In addition to the exhibits, the St. Louis Zoo also offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Visitors can enjoy everything from classic zoo fare like hot dogs and popcorn to gourmet meals made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Overall, the St. Louis Zoo is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area. With its commitment to conservation and education, beautiful parkland setting, and incredible array of animals, it’s no wonder the zoo is consistently ranked among the top zoos in the country. Whether you’re a family with young children or a seasoned traveler, the St. Louis Zoo is a destination you won’t want to miss.

History of the St. Louis Zoo

The St. Louis Zoo has a rich history dating back over 100 years. Its beginnings can be traced to the 1904 World’s Fair, which was held in St. Louis. During the fair, a temporary exhibit called the “Zoological Gardens” was created, featuring animals from around the world. The exhibit was so popular that the city decided to make it a permanent fixture.

In 1910, the St. Louis Zoological Society was formed to manage the new zoo. The society worked to improve the zoo’s exhibits and facilities, and by the 1920s, the zoo had become one of the best in the country. In 1927, the zoo moved to its current location in Forest Park, which had previously been a site for the World’s Fair.

Throughout the 20th century, the St. Louis Zoo continued to grow and expand. In the 1950s, a new primate house was built, followed by the addition of the Bird House in the 1960s. In the 1970s, the zoo introduced its first carousel and a children’s zoo, which was later expanded in the 1990s.

In the 1980s, the zoo began to focus more on conservation efforts. The WildCare Institute was established in 1984 to support conservation research and projects around the world. Today, the institute has worked on over 500 projects in 60 countries, helping to protect endangered species and their habitats.

In the 21st century, the St. Louis Zoo has continued to innovate and expand. In 2003, the zoo opened its River’s Edge exhibit, which features animals that live along the world’s great rivers, such as elephants, rhinos, and hippos. The Penguin & Puffin Coast exhibit opened in 2013, and the Primate House was renovated in 2017.

The St. Louis Zoo is now one of the largest and most popular zoos in the country, attracting over 3 million visitors each year. Its commitment to conservation and education, as well as its world-class exhibits and facilities, have made it a beloved institution in St. Louis and beyond.