Welcome to Reid Park Zoo, Tucson's premier destination for wildlife exploration and family fun. Nestled in the scenic surroundings of Gene C. Reid Park, this 24-acre zoo offers an unforgettable experience featuring over 250 animals from around the globe. Whether you're a local or visiting from out of town, Reid Park Zoo provides an enriching day of adventure, education, and conservation awareness. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the zoo is an ideal spot for visitors of all ages.
Reid Park Zoo, Tucson
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| Reid Park Zoo, Tucson Source: Wikipedia |
A Snapshot of Reid Park Zoo
From the moment you step through the entrance, you’ll be transported to a wild world filled with fascinating creatures. The zoo is home to animals from every corner of the globe, from the playful squirrel monkeys to the majestic giraffes. Visitors of all ages can enjoy the variety of exhibits and exciting experiences.
Explore the Wild Life at Reid Park Zoo
Reid Park Zoo (Wikipedia) is home to over 250 species of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The zoo’s exhibits are thoughtfully designed to replicate natural habitats, allowing you to observe the animals in settings that mimic their real-life environments. Whether you're watching a lion bask in the sun, feeding a giraffe, or learning about endangered species, there’s something for every animal lover.
Meet the Animals
Mammals
The zoo’s mammal exhibits feature a variety of fascinating species from across the globe. Some of the standout animals you’ll encounter include:
- African Elephants: The zoo is home to a herd of African elephants, offering an opportunity to learn about the behavior, diet, and conservation of these majestic animals.
- Giraffes: Tall, graceful, and always captivating, the giraffes at Reid Park Zoo are a favorite among visitors.
- Lions: The zoo has a pride of lions, providing a rare chance to witness these powerful animals up close.
- Monkeys and Primates: Watch orangutans, gibbons, and other primates swing from branch to branch in their spacious enclosures.
Birds
Reid Park Zoo houses a diverse collection of birds, from colorful parrots to elegant flamingos. Some of the bird species you'll find include:
- Macaws: These brightly colored, large parrots are a true visual delight.
- Flamingos: With their signature pink feathers and graceful postures, flamingos are always a popular attraction.
- Hornbills: These unique birds, known for their striking beaks, are an exciting part of the zoo’s exotic collection.
Reptiles
If reptiles are your thing, you won’t be disappointed. Reid Park Zoo has a variety of reptiles, each with their own fascinating traits:
- Komodo Dragons: These massive lizards, known for their size and strength, are sure to make a lasting impression.
- Tortoises: Slow-moving and serene, the zoo’s tortoises are a perfect example of resilience and endurance.
- Snakes: The zoo houses a number of snake species, including local Arizona rattlesnakes and exotic pythons.
Amphibians
While often overlooked, amphibians play an important role in the zoo’s ecosystem. These creatures, including frogs, salamanders, and newts, are part of the zoo’s efforts to highlight species that are often underappreciated in the wild.
- Poison Dart Frogs: Known for their bright colors and toxic skin, these frogs are an intriguing and eye-catching species in the zoo’s amphibian section.
- Salamanders: These creatures, found in a variety of colors, provide visitors with a fascinating look into the lives of amphibians.
Zoo Attractions
Reid Park Zoo offers more than just animal exhibits. The zoo provides a variety of attractions and activities to enhance your visit, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Reid Park Zoo Railway
Take a relaxing ride aboard the Reid Park Zoo Railway, a miniature train that circles the zoo’s perimeter. It’s an excellent way to see the zoo from a different perspective and enjoy the beautiful landscaping and wildlife.- Operating Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (October-May); 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (June-September)
- Cost: $4 per rider
Cox Wildlife Carousel
For a whimsical experience, take a spin on the Cox Wildlife Carousel. This colorful carousel features 30 hand-carved animals that are native to the zoo’s exhibits, making it a fun and educational activity for younger guests.- Operating Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (October-May); 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (June-September)
- Cost: $4 per guest
Giraffe Encounter
One of the most popular experiences at Reid Park Zoo is the Giraffe Encounter, where guests can feed and interact with the zoo’s giraffes. This hands-on experience allows you to learn about giraffe behavior, diet, and conservation while feeding these gentle giants.- Operating Hours: Daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. and noon to 12:30 p.m.
- Cost: $4 per guest
Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes at a zoo? Take a Behind-the-Scenes Tour and experience animal care firsthand. Whether you’re interested in learning about squirrel monkeys or the conservation efforts for endangered species, these tours offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
- Price: Varies by experience.
- Capacity: Small groups (10 people or fewer).
Daily Activities & Presentations
Reid Park Zoo offers a variety of interactive presentations and activities throughout the day, ensuring that your visit is educational and engaging.
Keeper Chats
Keeper Chats provide guests with the opportunity to interact directly with the zookeepers who care for the animals. These talks offer valuable insights into animal behavior, care, and conservation efforts.- When: Daily at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
- Duration: 15 minutes
- Cost: Free with admission
Animal Presentations
Throughout the day, Reid Park Zoo hosts Animal Presentations that showcase specific animals and their unique characteristics. These presentations help guests learn about animal behavior, the role of zoos in wildlife conservation, and more.Plan Your Visit
Reid Park Zoo is open year-round and offers a variety of amenities to make your visit as enjoyable as possible.
Zoo Hours & Admission
- Hours:
- October – May: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- June – September: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
- Admission:
- Adults (15-61): $11.25
- Seniors (62+): $9.25
- Children (2-14): $7.00
- Children under 2: Free
- Members: Free
Getting There & Parking
The zoo is located at 1100 S. Randolph Way in Tucson, Arizona. There’s plenty of free parking available right at the zoo, so you don’t need to worry about finding a spot.Accessibility & Amenities
Reid Park Zoo is committed to ensuring that all visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Wheelchair & Stroller Rentals
The zoo offers both manual and electric wheelchairs, as well as single and double strollers for rent. You can pick them up at the Discover the Wild Gift Shop.- Fees:
- Electric Wheelchair: $25 (plus deposit)
- Manual Wheelchair: $10 (plus deposit)
- Strollers: $8 (single) and $10 (double)
Accessibility for Guests with Disabilities
Reid Park Zoo is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, accessible restrooms, and sensory spaces. The zoo also offers sensory bags for guests with sensory sensitivities.Food & Drink
The zoo has several dining options for guests. The Flamingo Grill, located near the zoo entrance, serves a variety of meals and snacks. For those who prefer to pack their own meals, there are picnic areas outside the zoo’s entrance.Support Reid Park Zoo
Reid Park Zoo relies on the support of its community to continue its mission of conservation, education, and animal care. Here’s how you can get involved:
Become a Member
Become a zoo member to enjoy unlimited daytime admission, discounts on special events, and more.Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering at the zoo is a great way to give back to the community while learning more about wildlife conservation.Donate
Your donation helps fund conservation efforts, animal care, and educational programs. Every contribution supports the zoo’s mission of wildlife protection.Educational Programs
Reid Park Zoo is passionate about educating the public and fostering a greater understanding of wildlife. The zoo offers various programs to enrich the learning experience of both children and adults.
School Field Trips
Reid Park Zoo offers educational programs tailored to school groups, with opportunities for guided tours, hands-on activities, and live animal presentations. It’s a fantastic way to learn about biology, ecology, and conservation.Summer Camps
The zoo runs Summer Camps where children can dive into the world of wildlife conservation, learn about animal care, and discover the natural world through fun, engaging activities.Birthday Parties
Celebrate your child’s special day at Reid Park Zoo with a customized birthday party package, featuring animal encounters, party favors, and plenty of fun.Contact & Information
For more details, to book your next visit, or to learn more about upcoming events, contact the zoo directly.
- Location: 1100 S. Randolph Way, Tucson, AZ
- Phone: (520) 791-4022
- Website: www.reidparkzoo.org
Final Thoughts: Visit Reid Park Zoo Today!
Whether you’re spending a day with the family, learning about conservation, or simply exploring the zoo’s various exhibits, Reid Park Zoo offers a memorable and fun experience for all ages. With its engaging activities, exciting animal encounters, and dedication to conservation, it’s no wonder why it’s one of Tucson's most popular attractions. Plan your visit today, and experience the wild side of Tucson!
For more information about tickets, hours, and events, visit Reid Park Zoo’s official website.
