ZooLouisiana, US

Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo

Discover over 400 animals across 80 acres at the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo.

About

Discover over 400 animals across 80 acres at the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo. This expansive zoological park and garden invites visitors to embark on an engaging journey along nearly two miles of pathways, winding through diverse animal exhibits, lush park-like grounds, and vibrant gardens. It's a place where education meets recreation, fostering a sustainable relationship with nature for all who visit. The zoo promises a dynamic visitor experience, featuring a wide array of creatures from around the globe, including majestic African lions and tigers, as well as captivating burchell's zebras and hippos. Don't miss the recently opened sloth exhibit, where Fiona and Flash are ready to greet guests from their branches. Interactive experiences abound, such as feeding the charming budgerigars in their aviary and offering treats to the Aldabra tortoises. Beyond the animal habitats, the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo offers exciting attractions like the refreshing Zooasis Splash Pad, a fun playground, and unique transportation options. Glide through the swamps on the Safari Boat ride to observe animals not visible from footpaths, including various hoofed animals and primates, or enjoy a leisurely trip on the ADA-compliant train for close encounters with species like African watusi and emus. The planned Louisiana Purchase Exhibit, a "swamp exhibit," is set to enhance the native wildlife experience with features like albino alligators, beavers, and otters. It's a truly memorable destination that combines wildlife conservation with family-friendly fun. Take the ultimate field guide with you: use the Snappit app to identify birds, plants, and animals on your trip.

The Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo traces its origins back to the Bernstein Park Zoo, named after Mayor Arnold Bernstein, who served Monroe from 1919 until his passing in 1937. The facility saw significant development under Mayor W. L. "Jack" Howard, who championed it as a cornerstone of his municipal improvement initiatives. The zoo officially adopted its current name, Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, following an ambitious expansion plan in 1961 that included acquiring 137 acres of land. In 2013, the United States Department of Agriculture mandated upgrades to the animal food preparation kitchen and the construction of new primate holding pens, with the zoo achieving full compliance by 2017. The zoo recently celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2023, a testament to its enduring commitment to wildlife and the community.

What to do here

Explore the diverse animal exhibits, stroll through the landscaped gardens, enjoy the Train and Safari Boat rides, participate in interactive animal feedings, and let children cool off at the Zooasis Splash Pad during warmer months.

Seasonal info

The Zooasis Splash Pad operates daily from May through September and on weekends in April and October, closing for the winter. Seasonal festivities include the Easter Egg Extravaganza, Boo at the Zoo, and Splash into Summer. Train and boat ride schedules may be limited during winter months.

Accessibility

The zoo is considered family-friendly and handicapped accessible, featuring wide paved walkways. The train offers a brand-new ADA-compliant, wheelchair-accessible car, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: With 80 acres to explore, featuring numerous animal exhibits, gardens, and rides, visitors should plan for a half to full day to fully experience all the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo has to offer.
Best time to visit: Weekday visits generally offer fewer crowds, though some attractions like the train might have reduced availability. Weekends tend to have more activities but can be busier. Summer mornings are ideal to avoid the heat and larger crowds. It's always advisable to check the zoo's official channels for the latest updates on exhibit availability and attraction operating hours, especially for the train and boat rides, as renovations and seasonal changes can occur.
Location: Louisiana, US
Species in this guide: 14

Best for

Families With Young ChildrenWildlife And Nature EnthusiastsThose Seeking Interactive Animal ExperiencesIndividuals Interested In A Relaxing Outdoor Excursion

Official website Open in Maps

Don't miss

Don't miss the Safari Boat ride, which provides unique views of hoofed animals, primates, and native species not visible from walking paths.

The Train ride offers close encounters with African watusi, zebra, camel, ostrich, and emu.

The new Sloth Exhibit, featuring Fiona and Flash, is a must-see.

Interactive experiences include the Budgie Aviary and Tortoise feeding opportunities.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Linnaeus's Two Toed Sloth

African Lion

Tiger

American Alligator

Aldabra Giant Tortoise

Spotted Hyena

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Always check the official website (monroezoo.org) or social media for the most current operating hours and the availability of specific attractions like the train and boat rides, especially during seasonal changes or potential renovations.

Consider purchasing tickets for both the train and boat rides as they offer different perspectives and opportunities to see animals not visible from the main footpaths.

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months, to enjoy the extensive pathways across the 80-acre park.

Plan your visit for cooler parts of the day or during spring and fall to experience more active animal behavior.

Take advantage of the interactive feeding opportunities at the Budgie Aviary and the Tortoise feeding sessions for memorable close-up animal encounters.

Don't rush the Safari Boat ride; it provides a unique and relaxing way to observe wildlife in a natural swamp setting.

Frequently asked questions

: The main attractions include diverse animal exhibits with over 400 animals, a Safari Boat ride that reveals unique species, a Train ride offering close encounters with larger animals, the interactive Budgie Aviary and Tortoise feeding, and the Zooasis Splash Pad for children. Upcoming attractions include the Louisiana Purchase Exhibit, a swamp-themed area.
: Yes, visitors can enjoy several interactive experiences, including feeding budgerigars in their aviary and participating in seasonal tortoise feedings. There's also a Children's Zoo where guests can pet and feed some of the friendliest creatures. Sloth encounters are also available.
: Yes, the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo is committed to accessibility. It features wide paved walkways throughout the park and offers a brand-new, ADA-compliant, wheelchair-accessible train car, ensuring that visitors with mobility needs can enjoy the attractions.