ZooArizona, US

Reid Park Zoo

Reid Park Zoo offers an intimate wildlife experience in the heart of Tucson.

About

Reid Park Zoo offers an intimate wildlife experience in the heart of Tucson. This 24-acre, city-owned and operated nonprofit zoo is a cherished oasis, accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), dedicated to connecting people with animals and inspiring the protection of wild places. Visitors can explore naturalistic habitats that are home to over 500 animals from around the world, making for a captivating journey through diverse ecosystems. The zoo prides itself on being a clean, well-kept, and moderately sized venue, offering a perfect balance of variety and walkability that allows guests to immerse themselves in the animal world without feeling rushed. The visitor experience at Reid Park Zoo emphasizes "doing, not just viewing," providing memorable interactive opportunities. Imagine standing eye-to-eye with a reticulated giraffe, gently offering a leaf, or splashing with cownose rays in the engaging Wings & Water exhibit. Beyond these unique encounters, the zoo features popular zones like Expedition Tanzania, where African bush elephants roam, and the South America zone, home to jaguars and spectacled bears. The new World of Play sensory nature playground is an adventure zone where children can learn through exploration, climbing, and splashing. Reid Park Zoo is more than just an attraction; it's a conservation powerhouse deeply committed to education and research, ensuring every visit contributes to global wildlife protection efforts. With peacocks, squirrels, and geese freely roaming the grounds, the zoo provides a vibrant and engaging environment that appeals to all ages. Whether you're observing an African lion on heated rocks, marveling at the colorful Chilean flamingos in their lagoon, or exploring the diverse bird species in the Flight Connection Aviary, Reid Park Zoo promises an enriching and inspiring day out. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

Reid Park Zoo's story began unofficially in 1965 when Gene Reid, then Tucson's Parks and Recreation director, established a small collection of pheasants, peafowl, guinea fowl, and prairie dogs. The collection quickly grew, acquiring its first "exotic" animal—a two-year-old Asian elephant—in 1966. With the approval of its first budget in 1967-1968, the facility officially became part of city operations, initially known as Randolph Park Zoo before being renamed Reid Park Zoo. Over the decades, the zoo has expanded significantly, driven by a mission to inspire conservation. Key milestones include the opening of the LEED-certified Conservation Learning Center in 2008 and the impressive 7-acre Expedition Tanzania in 2012, which revolutionized its elephant program. In 2017, a voter-approved sales tax enabled a 10-Year Master Plan, signaling further enhancements such as a "Pathway to Asia" exhibit featuring tigers and red pandas, as well as continued expansion of its African and South American areas.

What to do here

Beyond animal viewing, enjoy rides like the Wildlife Carousel and the Reid Park Zoo Railway, which offers unique perspectives of the habitats or the surrounding park. Look for scheduled zookeeper talks to gain deeper insights into the animals. The zoo also hosts seasonal special events such as ZooLights, Brew at the Zoo, and ZOOcson.

Seasonal info

Hours: From October to May, the zoo is typically open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. From June to September, hours shift to 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Weather: Tucson summers are hot, so prioritize early morning visits, stay hydrated, and utilize shaded areas and indoor exhibits like the Reptile Center. Cooler months (October-April) offer pleasant weather but can be busier with school groups and "snowbirds." Animal Activity: Animals tend to be most active in the early morning and just before closing.

Accessibility

Reid Park Zoo is ADA compliant and strives to be inclusive for all visitors. Paved, stroller-friendly paths make navigation easy throughout the zoo. Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent at the Gift Shop. Trained service animals are welcome, with exceptions for aviaries. Accessible restrooms and water bottle fill-up stations are located conveniently throughout the park. The Reid Park Zoo Railway features a roomy caboose designed for wheelchairs.

Don't miss

interactive giraffe feeding experience

fascinating lion training demonstrations

playful stingrays at the Wings & Water exhibit

Expedition Tanzania (African elephants and savanna species)

Wildlife you might spot

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

African Elephant

Giraffes

African Lion

Jaguar

Grizzly Bear

Aldabra Giant Tortoise

Giant Anteaters

Capybara

Blue Spotted Stingray

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

Arrive Early

Especially in warmer months or during peak season (October-April), arriving at opening ensures cooler temperatures, more active animals, and smaller crowds.

Hydrate and Protect from Sun

Tucson's sun can be intense. Bring plenty of water, wear a hat, apply sunscreen, and use sunglasses. Water bottle fill-up stations are available.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo is best explored on foot, and while compact, comfortable walking shoes will enhance your experience.

Experience Giraffe Feeding

Head to the giraffe exhibit early if you want to participate in the feeding experience, as the leaf cups can sell out quickly, especially on weekends.

Check for Daily Programs

Look for schedules of zookeeper talks or lion training demonstrations upon arrival; these provide insightful and engaging animal encounters.

Utilize Free Parking

Reid Park Zoo offers free and ample parking, which is located north of the Zoo Entrance, behind the Edith Ball Adaptive Recreation Center.

Frequently asked questions

: Outside food is generally not permitted inside Reid Park Zoo, but bottled water is always allowed and encouraged. There is an air-conditioned cafe, Flamingo Grill, offering a variety of menu items. You can also bring your own food and enjoy it at the picnic areas located just outside the zoo within Reid Park.
: To avoid the largest crowds, particularly school groups, it's best to visit during the summer months (June-September) or on weekdays outside of school holidays. Arriving right at opening time, especially on cooler days, generally allows for a more peaceful experience with active animals and fewer people.
: Yes, Reid Park Zoo is fully wheelchair accessible and meets ADA guidelines. The paths are paved and flat, making it easy to navigate. Wheelchairs are available for rent at the Gift Shop, and the Reid Park Zoo Railway even has a specially designed caboose for wheelchair users.