The Best Zoos In Missouri, USA To See Elephants

1) STL Zoo

https://stlzoo.org/

Located in the vibrant city of St.

Louis, Missouri, the STL Zoo offers an unforgettable animal experience, which is both entertaining and educational, making it one of the best zoos in the state.

Covering 90 acres, the STL Zoo boasts a diverse collection of 16,000 animals including tigers, giraffes, capybaras, elephants, and sea lions, amongst others.

There’s something for everyone at this zoo, and accessibility is one of its main strengths with pathways that are wheelchair compatible.

Children of all ages are welcomed, making it a go-to destination for families.

The zoo takes pride in its free entry, offering affordable, fun-filled experiences for families and visitors.

From the plethora of family-oriented events and interactive attractions that take about 2-3 hours to explore, there’s never a dull moment.

Despite the inability to access the zoo via public transport, ample parking is available at a reasonable cost of $15 per car.

Visitors can also enjoy the array of food stalls or bring their own treats.

While pet dogs are not permitted within the venue, service animals are an exception.

Focused on conservation and education, the STL Zoo offers an overall value-filled day, establishing it as one of Missouri’s must-visit attractions.

2) Dickerson Park Zoo

https://dickersonparkzoo.org/

Nestled in the heart of Springfield, Missouri, is the impressive Dickerson Park Zoo.

This 70-acre haven for animal enthusiasts is home to over 450 distinct animal species, including majestic tigers, graceful giraffes, massive elephants and regal lions.

What sets Dickerson Park Zoo apart is the unique opportunity for close encounters with the animals, making it an engaging and educating experience for adults and children alike.

Given their commitment to animal protection and conservation, a visit to the zoo is also a lesson in empathy and awareness about wildlife.

Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, or have someone with mobility issues in your group — the zoo’s wheelchair-friendly walkways cater to everyone’s needs, even allowing for four-legged family members, dogs.

Individuals have a range of ticket options with adults at $17, children at $12, and concessions at $14.

A visit to the Dickerson Park Zoo, which usually spans 2-3 hours, ensures a fulfilling family day out that doesn’t burn a hole in one’s pocket.

However, do keep in mind that one has to arrange for private transport to reach this zoo, which rewards with ample and free parking space.

Savor the delicious offerings at the zoo’s food stalls as you embark on your exploration, because outside food and drinks are not allowed within premises.

While cuddling up with animals is restricted here, indirect interactions are just as rewarding.

In a nutshell, Dickerson Park Zoo contributes in its unique ways to making Missouri, a state worth exploring.

3) Kansas City Zoo

https://kansascityzoo.org/

Nestled in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri, the Kansas City Zoo is an expansive 202-acre wonderland for animal lovers and one of the best zoos in the state.

This large zoo is perfectly suited for family trips, with a host of intriguing animals ranging from majestic lions and tigers to exotic capybaras and sloths.

The zoo houses over 1,700 animals, ensuring an exhilarating experience that takes 2-3 hours on average to cover all its engaging attractions.

Considering accessibility, the Kansas City Zoo is known for its disability-friendly facilities, boasting walkways that are suitable for wheelchairs, making it an inclusive family-fun environment.

Although public transport does not directly serve the zoo, free parking is available for visitors who choose to drive.

A trip to the Kansas City Zoo represents great value for money.

With adult tickets priced at $22 and child tickets at $20, a family of four can enjoy this animal kingdom for a total cost of around $84.

Moreover, children under the age of two can enter for free.

During your visit, you’re free to choose from the various food stalls located within the zoo or bring your own food and drink.

However, please note that personal pets are not allowed, except for service animals.

In short, the Kansas City Zoo offers an accessible, fun, and budget-friendly day out that immerses you and your family in a world of unique wildlife.

With its diverse showcase of animals, considerate facilities, and accessible pricing, it’s no wonder it makes the list of Missouri’s best zoos.

Other Zoos To Enjoy Without Elephants

There are so many other great zoos to enjoy in Missouri.

If you want to try another zoo that doesn’t have Elephants, then one of these might be right for you.

Endangered Wolf Center

https://www.endangeredwolfcenter.org/

Located in Eureka, Missouri, the Endangered Wolf Center is a must-visit gem for animal lovers, notably known for its brilliant wolf rescue and conservation efforts.

Spanning 2000 acres, this extensive zoo provides an immersive and educational experience about wildlife, in particular, an insight into the majestic world of wolves and foxes.

Unfortunately, if you were hoping to spot elephants here, you might be disappointed as this zoo specializes in the conservation of endangered wolf species.

However, the diverse array of other activities and attractions are certainly bound to capture your interest.

The Endangered Wolf Center, believed to be one of Missouri’s best, is perfectly tailored for visits with the family, especially those with older children who have a keen interest in wildlife and the great outdoors.

Access for those with disabilities might be a bit challenging as some trails may not accommodate wheelchairs.

Nevertheless, the zoo’s management encourages all inquiries and aims to assist wherever possible.

If you are planning a visit, expect the tour to last around 90 minutes on average, and food stalls aren’t available on location, so remember to bring your packed lunch.

The cost for a family of four to explore the marvels of this large zoo is reasonable, coming in at an average of $66.

So, while it may not be the ideal spot for elephant enthusiasts, the Endangered Wolf Center is undeniably an exceptional choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

Grant’s Farm

https://grantsfarm.com/

Grant’s Farm, a sprawling 280-acre oasis of wildlife in St.

Louis, Missouri, stands as a premier destination for nature lovers, particularly those enamoured by the majestic beauty of elephants.

Although it is home to a variety of animals such as deer and goats, it is the elephants that truly capture the visitors’ attention.

Their enormous size, gentle demeanor, and fascinating habits create an unforgettable spectacle, making it a standout zoo in Missouri for elephant sightings.

To top it off, the accessibility of the zoo is commendable, with walkways that are not just extensive but are also wheelchair-friendly, making the experience even more inclusive and welcoming.

One of the greatest draws of Grant’s Farm is its free entry; adults, children, and concessions all have access to this enchanting wildlife haven without any cost.

This makes it an excellent choice for families with older children and toddlers who are looking to explore nature’s marvels while being mindful of their budget.

The average visit lasts between 2 to 3 hours, providing ample time for families to fully experience all the attractions available.

For added convenience, there is a reasonably priced parking lot available, although the zoo isn’t accessible through public transport.

Visitors are also advised that while bringing personal food and drink, or pet dogs is not permitted, the zoo does offer food stalls and allows service animals.

For any further details, the zoo’s information desk is always ready to assist.