Sedgwick County Zoo, Kansas

Located in Northwest Wichita, Sedgwick County Zoo is one of the largest zoos not just in Kansas but also in the United States. Spread across 247 acres, the zoo opened back in 1971. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), this zoo is home to about 2,500 animals of nearly 500 different species. The zoo is also part of the Species Survival Plan and conducts the breeding of many rare and endangered species. It has also won several national and international awards for its contribution to conservation and breeding programs. 

Top Outdoor Attraction in Kansas

Sedgwick County Zoo is ranked as one of the top outdoor attractions in Kansas. There are plenty of exhibits, and you will need at least a day to cover all of them. You can find animal species not just from the country but also from Africa, Asia, and Australia. All animals are kept in exhibits that mimic their natural habitat and allow visitors to learn more about them. Some of the highlights of Sedgwick County Zoo are –

• ‘The Pride of the Plains’ exhibit is very popular among adults and houses lions, red river hogs, meerkats, African painted dogs.

• Downing Gorilla Forest is home to Gorillas, pink-backed pelicans, white pelicans, Brazza’s monkeys, and saddle-billed storks.

• The African exhibit has hippos, giraffes, African bush elephants, and eastern black rhinos.

• Penguin Cove is a relatively new exhibit, and its star attractions are Humboldt penguins that are native to the coastal parts of Peru and Chile.

• The Tiger Trek allows you to get close to Malayan tigers, red pandas, Amur tigers, and many other exotic animals.

Apart from the above, there are many other activities organized throughout the year that involve interaction with animals, learning more about animals, and creating awareness about how to conserve their natural environment.  

Events 

Sedgwick is a great place to hold group events such as weddings, birthdays, corporate events, and more next to many exotic animals. There are different packages available for people at different locations around the zoo. There are also a few meeting rooms, among which the largest one can hold about 350 people at a time. 

Upcoming Attractions

The zoo is currently building a new entrance and also an all-new elephant management complex. It is also adding a new amphibians and reptiles building that is set to open soon to the public. They are also expanding the number of different exhibits and are planning to add a water park and savannah exhibit. 

Hours of Operation:

• March to October – 9 am – 5:00 pm

• November to February – 9 am – 3:30 pm

Admission Fee: 

• Seniors (65+) – $11.95

• Adults (12-64) – $15.95

• Kids (3-11) – $11.95

• Kids 2 & Under-Free

There are many free and discounted days throughout the year that visitors can take advantage of. 

Parking: Free

Pet Daycare: 

There is a free pet daycare for families traveling with pets. But, remember to call and book in advance as there is limited space.