Discover the Wonders of Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Explore the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium, where adventure meets education in a vibrant setting filled with wildlife wonders and aquatic marvels.
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
The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is a vibrant and expansive destination that invites visitors of all ages to explore the beauty of wildlife from around the world. Nestled in the heart of Kansas City, this zoo spans over 202 acres, showcasing a diverse collection of animals that include everything from majestic elephants to playful sea otters. As you stroll through the lushly landscaped grounds, each exhibit is thoughtfully designed to replicate the natural habitats of the animals, ensuring an immersive experience that educates and entertains. One of the highlights of the Kansas City Zoo is the unique opportunity to observe animals in environments that closely mirror their native habitats. The zoo features themed areas such as the Africa section, where guests can observe lions and giraffes in a savanna-like setting, and the Australian exhibit, which provides a glimpse into the lives of kangaroos and koalas. Additionally, the aquarium offers a stunning showcase of marine life, from colorful tropical fish to fascinating jellyfish exhibits. This combination of land and sea makes the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium a perfect family-friendly attraction. To enhance your visit, the zoo hosts various educational programs, animal encounters, and seasonal events that engage visitors and foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife conservation. Whether you're feeding the giraffes or watching the penguins swim, there’s always something exciting happening. With its commitment to animal welfare and education, the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium not only serves as a fun destination but also plays an important role in promoting environmental awareness and conservation efforts.
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Take advantage of the interactive exhibits and scheduled animal feedings for a more engaging experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the zoo covers a large area with plenty of walking paths.
- Check the event calendar for special programs or exhibits happening during your visit.
- Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the designated areas, as there are many beautiful spots to relax.
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!
Attractions Nearby to Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
- Tropics
- Swope Park
- Lakeside Nature Center
- Bruce R Watkins Cultural Center
- Cave Spring Park
- William M. Klein Park
- Escape This Place
- The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
- The John Wornall House Museum
- The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden
- Frank A. Theis Park
- The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
- Southmoreland Park
- Jacob L. Loose Park
- Fountain in Mill Creek Park
Landmarks nearby to Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
- Frank T. Riley Memorial
- Santa Fe National Historic Trail Marker 1913
- Powder Mill Bridge
- Community Christian Church
- Extended Stay America - Kansas City - Country Club Plaza
- Seville Light Fountain
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Country Club Plaza (Christmas lights)
- Apple Country Club Plaza
- Wild Boar of Florence - Bronze Replica
- Quiet talk sculpture
- Bent and Ward Houses
- True Food Kitchen
- Residence Inn Kansas City Country Club Plaza
- Country Club Plaza