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Frankfurt Zoo: A Wildlife Oasis in the City

Discover a world of wildlife in the heart of Frankfurt: explore diverse habitats, encounter fascinating animals, and support global conservation efforts at Germany's second oldest zoo.

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Frankfurt Zoo, the second oldest zoo in Germany, is a captivating urban oasis showcasing over 4,500 animals from around 450 species. Located in the heart of Frankfurt, the zoo offers a diverse range of habitats, from the dense jungle-like Borgori Forest, home to gorillas and bonobos, to the nocturnal realm of the Grzimek House, where bats and aardvarks roam. Visitors can marvel at Sumatran tigers, African animals, playful seals, and a vibrant array of marine life in the Exotarium. Beyond its impressive collection, Frankfurt Zoo actively participates in global conservation efforts, making it a must-visit destination for animal lovers and those seeking a deeper understanding of the natural world. The zoo's commitment to education and conservation, combined with its accessible location and diverse exhibits, ensures a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Don't miss the opportunity to witness wildlife thriving in the heart of the city.

A brief summary to Zoo Frankfurt

  • Monday 9 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-7 pm
  • Friday 9 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Grzimek House to experience nocturnal animals in their active phase, a unique opportunity to observe creatures that are usually asleep during the day.
  • Check the zoo's schedule for feeding times and animal demonstrations, which offer a chance to learn more about the animals and their behaviors.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid queues and ensure entry, as visitor capacity may be limited.
  • Consider supporting the zoo's conservation efforts by donating to the Nature Conservation Euro program when purchasing your ticket.
  • Take advantage of the zoo's accessibility by using public transport; the U6/U7 and tram line 14 stop directly at the 'Zoo' station.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The most convenient way to reach Frankfurt Zoo is by public transport. From Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Central Station), take any S-Bahn heading towards the city center to Konstablerwache (approximately 3 stops). At Konstablerwache, transfer to the U6 or U7 U-Bahn lines in the direction of Ostbahnhof or Enkheim. Get off at the 'Zoo' station, which is just one stop from Konstablerwache. The zoo entrance is directly in front of the station exit. A single ticket (Einzelfahrschein) for Frankfurt costs €3.80 and is valid for travel on all forms of public transport within the city. Alternatively, a short-trip ticket (Kurzstrecke) costing €2.25 may be sufficient depending on your starting point. A day ticket (Tageskarte) is available for €7.40 if you plan to make multiple trips. The Frankfurt Card, offering unlimited travel and discounts on attractions, costs €12.00 for a single-day ticket.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Frankfurt. A taxi ride from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof to the zoo will typically cost between €15 and €20, depending on traffic. Be sure to specify 'Zoo Frankfurt' as your destination. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy during peak hours, potentially increasing the fare.

  • Driving

    If driving, use a GPS and input the address 'Bernhard-Grzimek-Allee 1, 60316 Frankfurt am Main'. Note that free parking around the zoo is very limited, especially on weekends. Several paid parking garages are located in the immediate vicinity, including Zoopassage (Grüne Straße 11), City-Parkhaus Ost (Waldschmidtstr. 43 or Wittelsbacher-Allee 26), and Mousonturm (Waldschmidtstr. 6). Parking fees typically range from €2 to €4 per hour, with daily maximums around €20. Consider using public transport to avoid parking hassles and contribute to a greener environment.

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Discover more about Zoo Frankfurt

Frankfurt Zoo, officially known as Zoologischer Garten Frankfurt, is a verdant escape nestled within the bustling metropolis of Frankfurt am Main. Founded in 1858, it stands as Germany's second-oldest zoo, a testament to the city's long-standing commitment to wildlife and conservation. Spanning over 11 hectares, the zoo is home to more than 4,500 animals representing approximately 450 different species from across the globe. The zoo's layout is designed to immerse visitors in a variety of ecosystems. The Borgori Forest, a meticulously crafted ape house, replicates a dense jungle environment where gorillas and bonobos can be observed in a naturalistic setting. The Grzimek House, named after the zoo's legendary director Bernhard Grzimek, is Europe's largest nocturnal animal house, offering a unique glimpse into the hidden lives of bats, sloths, and other creatures of the night. The Exotarium showcases a stunning array of aquatic life, from colorful fish and delicate seahorses to penguins, reptiles, and amphibians. One of the zoo's highlights is the Cat Jungle, where visitors can safely observe majestic Indian lions, Sumatran tigers, and rusty-spotted cats. Instead of traditional cages, the animals are separated from the public by moats and glass panes, providing unobstructed views and a sense of closeness. The zoo also features a variety of other animal houses, including bird halls with free-flight enclosures, a giraffe house with braille signage, and a rhinoceros house. Frankfurt Zoo is not just a place to observe animals; it is a center for education and conservation. The zoo actively participates in international breeding programs for endangered species and supports various conservation projects around the world. The Frankfurt Zoological Society (FZS), headquartered at the zoo's main entrance, plays a crucial role in these efforts, working to protect wildlife and ecosystems in Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia. The zoo's commitment to conservation extends to its educational programs, which aim to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the threats facing wildlife. The zoo offers guided tours, lectures, and events for visitors of all ages, providing insights into animal behavior, ecology, and conservation issues. The zoo also works closely with schools and community groups to promote environmental education. Bernhard Grzimek, who served as the zoo's director from 1945 to 1974, played a pivotal role in shaping the zoo's modern identity. Grzimek was a renowned zoologist, animal filmmaker, and conservationist who rebuilt the zoo after its destruction in World War II and introduced innovative animal management practices. His popular television program, 'Ein Platz für Tiere' (A Place for Animals), made Frankfurt Zoo famous throughout Germany and beyond. Today, Frankfurt Zoo continues to uphold Grzimek's legacy by promoting animal welfare, supporting conservation efforts, and providing engaging educational experiences for visitors. The zoo's redesign divides the zoo into biomes, such as savannas and rainforests. Visitor and operational areas will be clearly separated. The zoo is also committed to providing a welcoming and accessible environment for all visitors. The zoo offers a range of facilities, including restaurants, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The zoo is also accessible for visitors with mobility issues, with wheelchair rentals available and most paths designed to be barrier-free. Visiting Frankfurt Zoo is an opportunity to connect with the natural world, learn about wildlife conservation, and support the zoo's important work. Whether you are an animal lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and educational day out, Frankfurt Zoo offers a memorable experience for the whole family. The zoo's diverse collection of animals, its commitment to conservation, and its accessible location make it a must-visit destination in Frankfurt. As Germany's second-oldest zoo, Frankfurt Zoo has experienced many changes. After being almost entirely destroyed in World War II, it was rebuilt post-war. While some areas have been modernized in the last 20 years, other major sections still date back to the 1950s and 1960s. These older areas no longer meet the requirements of modern animal care or the expectations of a contemporary zoo. Therefore, a significant redesign of more than half of the site is necessary for the zoo, founded in 1865, to continue fulfilling its diverse responsibilities. The zoo’s redesign must also be considered in the context of urban development, taking into account future changes in population growth, urban climate, energy efficiency, and sufficiency. With this new Masterplan, Frankfurt Zoo is well-equipped for the future and its role as a center for global conservation efforts. Educational elements will help deepen visitors' understanding and complement the zoo's educational mission, focusing on conservation. The architects and zoo planners at dan pearlman worked with the city of Frankfurt's team to tackle a comprehensive list of tasks. The initial ideas from the concept study were evaluated for urban planning, architectural, structural, biological, and ecological feasibility. The Masterplan focuses on creating future-proof animal care, a high-quality experience for visitors, and excellent working conditions for staff.

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