How long should I plan for a visit to Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium?

It is recommended to plan for at least 4-6 hours to explore Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, though many visitors find that a full day or even two is needed to experience all the exhibits and attractions comprehensively.

What are some of the must-see exhibits at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo?

Key highlights include the Lied Jungle (one of the world's largest indoor rainforests), the Desert Dome (world's largest indoor desert), the Kingdoms of the Night (world's largest nocturnal exhibit), the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium (with a 70-foot shark tunnel), and the expansive African Grasslands.

Can I bring my own food and water to Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo?

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own lunch, snacks, and water bottles. There are numerous covered picnic areas available, and water refill stations are located throughout the park. Coolers and wagons are permitted, but glass containers and alcohol are not.

AquariumNebraska, US

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Nestled in the heart of Nebraska, Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is not just a local gem, but a globally celebrated institution consistently ranked among the world's best zoos.

Open in Maps

About

Nestled in the heart of Nebraska, Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is not just a local gem, but a globally celebrated institution consistently ranked among the world's best zoos. This expansive 160-acre biological park offers an unparalleled journey into diverse ecosystems, from steamy rainforests to arid deserts and vibrant ocean depths. It's a place where recreation, education, conservation, and research converge, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. The zoo is renowned for its groundbreaking, record-setting exhibits that transport you across continents.

Wander through the Lied Jungle, one of the world's largest indoor rainforests, where you'll encounter swinging gibbons, colorful macaws, and even pygmy hippos amidst lush vegetation and roaring waterfalls. Descend into the Desert Dome, the world's largest indoor desert, housing a fascinating array of reptiles, meerkats, and other desert dwellers within its iconic geodesic structure. Directly beneath the Desert Dome lies the mysterious Kingdoms of the Night, the world's largest nocturnal exhibit and indoor swamp, where you can observe creatures like aardvarks, bats, and alligators in their active nighttime environments. Beyond these signature attractions, explore the underwater wonders of the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium, featuring a 70-foot-long walk-through shark tunnel, vibrant coral reefs, and enchanting penguins.

Venture into the vast African Grasslands, home to elephants, giraffes, white rhinos, and cheetahs roaming expansive habitats designed to mimic their natural environment. The Asian Highlands offer a glimpse of snow leopards, red pandas, and other species from the Himalayan region, while Hubbard Gorilla Valley and Hubbard Orangutan Forest provide immersive homes for primates. With its commitment to providing naturalistic habitats and engaging visitor experiences, Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium offers a truly immersive and educational adventure into the animal kingdom. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium began its journey in 1894 as the Riverview Park Zoo, a small menagerie in Riverview Park. By 1898, its collection had grown to over 120 animals. A significant turning point arrived in 1952 with the formation of the Omaha Zoological Society, dedicated to the zoo's improvement and administration. In 1963, the zoo was renamed Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium following a generous $750,000 donation from Margaret Hitchcock Doorly. Her stipulation was that the zoo be named in memory of her late husband, Henry Doorly, a prominent chairman of the World Publishing Company. This pivotal gift, along with subsequent donations from other philanthropists, fueled the zoo's transformation into the world-class institution it is today, known for its leadership in conservation and research.

What to do here

Beyond animal viewing, the zoo offers various attractions. Consider riding the Zoo Railroad, the Skyfari aerial tram, or the carousel. Check the schedule for animal feedings, keeper talks, and special presentations. Don't miss the Alaskan Adventure Splash Park for kids.

Seasonal info

Summer: Arrive early to avoid heat and crowds. Prioritize indoor exhibits like the Desert Dome, Lied Jungle, Aquarium, and Kingdoms of the Night during the hottest parts of the day. Misting stations are available outdoors. Winter: The zoo is open year-round (except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day), and its numerous indoor exhibits provide a warm escape, making it an excellent winter destination.

Accessibility

The zoo strives to be inclusive and accessible. Most trails are paved, and strollers (rental available) are common, though some indoor exhibits may be crowded.

Don't miss

Lied Jungle

Immerse yourself in North America's largest indoor rainforest, a multi-level exhibit teeming with exotic birds, primates, and even small mammals like pygmy hippos and Malayan tapirs.

Desert Dome

Explore a vast indoor desert with three distinct habitats from around the world, showcasing fascinating reptiles and unique desert creatures.

Kingdoms of the Night

Descend beneath the Desert Dome into the world's largest nocturnal exhibit, where you'll encounter bats, alligators, aardvarks, and other fascinating creatures active in their dimly lit environments.

Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium

Walk through a 70-foot-long shark tunnel, marvel at vibrant coral reefs, and observe penguins and puffins.

Wildlife you might spot

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

African Lion

Giraffes

Tiger

Cheetahs

Snow Leopard

Polar Bear

Jaguar

Black Bear

Koi

Lionfish

Snap map for this place

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

Loading map…

Good to know before you go

Arrive early

Especially during peak season or on weekends, arriving at opening can help you avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

Wear comfortable shoes

The zoo is large (160 acres), so you'll be doing a lot of walking.

Hydrate frequently

Bring a refillable water bottle; there are water stations throughout the zoo.

Plan your route

Check the zoo map online or upon arrival and prioritize the exhibits you want to see most. Consider starting with the Lied Jungle, Desert Dome, and Aquarium as they are near the entrance and great for cooler mornings or hot afternoons.

Utilize transport options

The zoo offers a train, tram, and Skyfari aerial tram which can help cover distances and provide a different perspective, especially if you have small children or want to save your feet.

Pack a lunch

Food options are available, but packing your own lunch can save money and ensure you have food readily available when hunger strikes.

Frequently asked questions

: It is recommended to plan for at least 4-6 hours to explore Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, though many visitors find that a full day or even two is needed to experience all the exhibits and attractions comprehensively.
: Key highlights include the Lied Jungle (one of the world's largest indoor rainforests), the Desert Dome (world's largest indoor desert), the Kingdoms of the Night (world's largest nocturnal exhibit), the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium (with a 70-foot shark tunnel), and the expansive African Grasslands.
: Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own lunch, snacks, and water bottles. There are numerous covered picnic areas available, and water refill stations are located throughout the park. Coolers and wagons are permitted, but glass containers and alcohol are not.