Explore the Wonders of Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Discover the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium, where adventure and education come together in an unforgettable wildlife experience for all ages.
The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium offers an unforgettable adventure for visitors of all ages. Home to over 1,700 animals, stunning exhibits, and interactive experiences, it's a perfect destination for families and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
- 6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, Missouri, 64132, US
- +1816-595-1234
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the animals at their most active.
- Check the daily schedule for animal feeding times and special events to enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo covers a large area with many walking paths.
- Bring a refillable water bottle; there are several filling stations throughout the zoo.
- Consider purchasing a membership if you plan to visit multiple times; it often pays for itself within a few visits.
Getting There
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Bus
From Independence, head to the nearest bus stop. You can catch the KCATA Route 24 bus towards 'Walnut & 20th'. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes. You will need to transfer at the '20th & Main' stop to the Route 47 bus, which goes to 'Swope Park'. Stay on this bus for another 20 minutes until you reach the 'Zoo' stop. From there, it’s a short walk to the entrance of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to cycle, you can start at the Independence Square. Head west on Kansas Ave, then turn left onto US-40 W. Continue for about 10 miles on the bike lane until you reach the intersection with Swope Parkway. Follow Swope Parkway until you see signs for the Kansas City Zoo. The zoo has bike racks available for parking.
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Walking
Walking directly from Independence to the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is quite a distance (around 10 miles), but if you're up for it, start at Independence Square. Head west on US-40 W. Continue walking straight, and cross the bordering Kansas City line. Once you reach Swope Park, look for signs indicating the Kansas City Zoo. The walk will take approximately 3-4 hours, so plan accordingly!
Discover more about Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wieduwilt Swales - National Historic Trails
4.9 km
Explore the Historic Wieduwilt Swales, a significant landmark of the Oregon Trail in Kansas City, where history meets nature in a serene landscape.
Frank T. Riley Memorial
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Santa Fe National Historic Trail Marker 1913
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Powder Mill Bridge
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Extended Stay America - Kansas City - Country Club Plaza
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Experience the charm of Kansas City with a stay at Extended Stay America - Country Club Plaza, where comfort meets convenience in a vibrant neighborhood.
Seville Light Fountain
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The Cheesecake Factory
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Country Club Plaza (Christmas lights)
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Apple Country Club Plaza
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Wild Boar of Florence - Bronze Replica
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Quiet talk sculpture
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Bent and Ward Houses
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True Food Kitchen
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Residence Inn Kansas City Country Club Plaza
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Country Club Plaza
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Unmissable attractions to see
Tropics
0.2 km
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Swope Park
0.5 km
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Lakeside Nature Center
1.4 km
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Bruce R Watkins Cultural Center
3.5 km
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Cave Spring Park
4.2 km
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William M. Klein Park
4.2 km
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Escape This Place
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Experience the ultimate thrill of escape rooms at Escape This Place in Raytown, Missouri, where teamwork and adventure collide in an unforgettable journey.
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
5.3 km
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The John Wornall House Museum
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The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden
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Frank A. Theis Park
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GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium
6.1 km
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The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
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Southmoreland Park
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Jacob L. Loose Park
6.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Cafe Trio
6.4 km
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Chaz on the Plaza
6.5 km
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Seasons 52
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Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
6.5 km
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The Capital Grille
6.6 km
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Creators' Kitchen as Seen on TikTok
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The Melting Pot
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Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant- Kansas City
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Gram & Dun
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The Granfalloon Restaurant And Bar
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McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks
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Eddie V's Prime Seafood
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JJ's Restaurant
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TAILLEUR RESTAURANT
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Bistro 303
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Eclectics Gift Gallery
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A STORE NAMED STUFF
5.5 km
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KC Style Haus
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Charlie Hustle
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Made in KC Marketplace - Plaza
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francesca's
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vineyard vines
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Razzleberry
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Altar'd State Country Club Plaza
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Free People
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GOOD for YOU
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Westport Merchant Circle
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Wonderland
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Clothz Minded
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POP! Vintage Furniture and Accessories
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Flying Horse Taproom
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O’Dowd’s Gastrobar
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Levee Bar & Grill
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Prime Social
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The Monarch Bar
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Nine Zero One Rooftop Bar & Lounge
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Westport Bar & Rec
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The Bar West Plaza
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Harry's Bar & Tables
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Westport Entertainment District
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Tin Roof
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Score Sports Bar & Grill
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Harve's Neon Bar
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The Pressed Penny Tavern
8.0 km
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