Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park photo
ZooTennessee, US

Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park

The Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park offers an extraordinary, intimate wildlife experience, perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with the animal kingdom without feeling overwhelmed.

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The Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park offers an extraordinary, intimate wildlife experience, perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with the animal kingdom without feeling overwhelmed. Nestled within Warner Park, this 13-acre zoological park is renowned for its thoughtfully designed habitats that bring the natural world closer to you. Visitors can embark on a global adventure, encountering everything from the majestic snow leopards and elusive red pandas of the Himalayan Passage—which boasts the largest indoor red panda exhibit globally—to the playful chimpanzees residing in the expansive Gombe Forest. The zoo's commitment to creating an "up close" environment allows for a truly immersive and educational visit, where you can observe animal behaviors and learn about conservation efforts firsthand.Step into the vibrant Corcovado Jungle to discover Latin American marvels like jaguars, spider monkeys, capybaras, and colorful macaws.

Or explore the recently expanded Cape of Africa, where giraffes gracefully roam alongside warthogs, servals, and Aldabra tortoises, offering a glimpse into diverse ecosystems. The "Walkin' the Tracks" exhibit celebrates North American wildlife, featuring bobcats, prairie dogs, and white-tailed deer, all within a setting that pays homage to Chattanooga's railroad heritage. Every turn offers an opportunity to connect with animals, understanding their roles in the wild and the importance of preserving their habitats.Beyond passive viewing, the Chattanooga Zoo encourages active engagement.

Participate in daily Keeper Chats to learn fascinating facts directly from animal caregivers, or elevate your visit with unique "WILD Encounters" that allow for behind-the-scenes access and even hand-feeding experiences with animals like red pandas, meerkats, or Komodo dragons. For families, the Warner Park Ranch offers a chance to interact with domestic animals, including goats in a petting zoo, while the Zoo Choo Train and Endangered Species Carousel provide delightful rides. This carefully curated and interactive approach ensures that every visitor leaves with not just memories, but also a renewed appreciation for wildlife and conservation. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.

The Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park traces its origins back to 1937, when the City of Chattanooga established a permanent zoo with two small cages housing rhesus monkeys. This initial effort followed an earlier, short-lived public zoo in Chattanooga, the Oxley Zoo, which opened in 1900 but closed due to financial difficulties in 1911. Over the decades, the Chattanooga Zoo evolved significantly. In the 1960s, there was a shift towards a petting zoo environment with the opening of "Zooville." However, conditions deteriorated in the 1970s, prompting a public outcry that led to the formation of "Friends of the Zoo" (FOZ) in the 1980s, dedicated to improving the facility.A pivotal moment arrived in 1998 when the zoo achieved accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), signifying its adherence to high standards of animal care, conservation, and education. Since then, the zoo has undergone substantial expansion and modernization, growing from 1.5 acres to its current 13 acres. Notable developments include the opening of the $1.9 million Gombe Forest chimpanzee exhibit in 2001, the Himalayan Passage in 2004 (featuring the largest indoor red panda facility in the country), and a new front entrance complex in 2008. More recently, in May 2020, the Makazi Ya Twiga exhibit welcomed reticulated giraffes, and the 2024 "Cape of Africa" expansion further diversified its offerings, solidifying its reputation as a leading small zoo committed to wildlife preservation.

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Good to know before you go

Arrive Early

Visit right when the zoo opens to see the animals at their most active and to avoid larger crowds, especially during school group visits in spring and fall.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo is 13 acres, and while paths are paved, you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.

Bring Water Bottles

Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. Refill stations are available throughout the zoo.

Check the Daily Schedule

Before or upon arrival, check the schedule for Keeper Chats and animal feeding times to enhance your experience.

Consider a WILD Encounter or Giraffe Feeding: These additional experiences offer unique, memorable interactions and a deeper connection with specific animals. Book WILD Encounters in advance.

Utilize Accessibility Amenities

If needed, take advantage of the free parking, paved paths, wheelchair/stroller rentals, nursing station, sensory bags, and quiet zone to ensure a comfortable visit for everyone.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, parking is free for all guests at the Chattanooga Zoo. Reserved handicap parking spaces are conveniently located directly in front of the zoo's entrance.
Visitors usually spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the Chattanooga Zoo. However, if you plan to engage in additional activities such as animal encounters, giraffe feedings, or allow extra time for the Nature Play area, your visit could extend to 3-4 hours.
Absolutely! The Chattanooga Zoo offers "WILD Encounters" that provide exclusive, up-close experiences with animals like red pandas, meerkats, Komodo dragons, giant anteaters, and prehensile-tailed porcupines, often including hand-feeding opportunities. They also offer giraffe feedings and specialized zoo tours focusing on carnivores, primates, or reptiles, where you might even see a special feeding. These experiences often require advance booking.

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