The Country’s #1 Zoo -Again!
It’s no secret that those folks who live in the Omaha, Nebraska area and within a day’s drive love the Henry Doorly Zoo. I am also a huge fan. In fact, folks love this zoo so much they voted it as the #1 zoo in all three categories - Best Zoo, Best Zoo Attraction, and Best Safari Park in the most recent USA Today vote. I voted for the Henry Doorly Zoo multiple times, so I’m glad to see it won!
Because the Omaha zoo is large and has many great exhibits, I’m going to break this post into several parts. This post will encompass the overall zoo and some of its popular attractions.
Our family has had an Omaha Zoo membership for at least 22 years. We love it! Here are some of our favorites.
Desert Dome and Kingdoms of the Night - The Desert Dome won best zoo attraction in the USA contest this year and I can certainly see why. When I visited on a recent weekday, it looks like it has been recently renewed and includes more and more varied animals. It is housed in a giant dome. Underneath the dome is Kingdoms of the Night - which houses many nocturnal animals. It’s dark and a bit spooky, but that’s obviously fitting.
Owen Sea Lion Shores - This Attraction was added during Covid and is a really fun way to view sea lions both above and below the water. Kids’ play areas are included!
The Lied Jungle - While still in the process of refurbishment at my most recent visit, I like what I see already. There are two levels in this attraction with some surprises for both kids and adults. Both rainforest flora and fauna are included in this large, immersive environment.
Hubbard Gorilla Valley - Who likes to think about getting eye-to-eye with a big gorilla? In this large attraction, you certainly can. The Hubbard Orangutan Forest is currently undergoing remodeling and I can’t wait to see what that will be like.
Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium - This is one of my favorite exhibits. There’s lots to see here including a tunnel with sharks, rays, and turtles swimming overhead!
There are several I have missed - The Asian Highlands, the Simmons Aviary, the Scott African Grasslands, the Garden of the Senses, plus several more. I guess what I’m saying is there’s a bunch to see here and you can easily spend all day here and still not see it all! It really is the USA’s Best Zoo! Stay tuned for more!
