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10 Best Zoos for Kids
It's unbelievable how close kids can get to the animals here. In Wallaroo Station, the zoo's four-and-a-half-acre Australian-themed children's area, kids can brush a goat's fur, feed birdseed lollipops to parakeets, and walk down a path as kangaroos and wallabies hop in front of them. They can ride on a llama or, in another part of the zoo, a camel -- which makes the pony treks seem almost trite. In Lowry's expanded Safari Africa exhibit, your family can climb up on a platform to offer one of the giraffes a snack. "Kids squeal in delight when the giraffe sticks out its 18-inch-long tongue to snatch a cracker," says Craig Pugh, acting director. Other cool animals that your children can feed: a white rhino, stingrays, and lorikeets.
Since Lowry Park is the only zoo in the country with an accredited preschool and kindergarten on-site, the staff is especially comfortable fielding questions from families. When your little kids need a break from the animal action, head to the playground or one of five rides including a kiddie coaster. And if you need to relax or nurse, there's even a "mommy stop," a shaded area with benches and child-size picnic tables.
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I grew up going to Lowry Park Zoo and I remember the changes they were making way back then. I haven't been back since 2000 because I moved, but I'm glad that it's now one of the best zoos. I wish I lived in Tampa still so my son could enjoy it.
9/28/2010 05:02:36 PM Report AbuseHow in the world can the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium not be ANYWHERE on this list?! It is rated the #1 Zoo in the country. The place is amazing and that is why their attendance continues to increase every year.
8/10/2010 10:58:49 AM Report AbuseWe have lived in Houston for almost 2 years now & got our zoo membership within the first week. While I miss the MN Zoo immensely, the Houston Zoo is beautiful and diverse. Although it is sad that they have lost several elephants over the last few years, increased research and prevention are shining through. We can't wait to see the newest elephant, Baby Baylor!!
5/10/2010 10:14:22 PM Report AbuseI was kind of surprised that Riverbanks zoo and garden in Columbia,SC was not on this list. They have giraffe feeding and it wasn't listed there either.
5/4/2010 01:08:45 PM Report AbuseSweepsgirl - you don't know what you're talking about. PETA doesn't have a 10 worst zoos list. The elephants at the Houston Zoo have been in a brand new barn and exhibit yard for over a year now. One of the best facilities in the nation. The Zoo is partnering with universities and medical research institutions across the country to learn more about herpes and find a cure. What are you doing?
4/7/2010 11:17:28 AM Report Abuse