What are the main exhibits at The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore?

The Maryland Zoo features four primary exhibit areas: African Journey, Maryland Wilderness, Northern Passage, and Penguin Coast. The African Journey includes animals like elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinos, and zebras. The Maryland Wilderness focuses on native Maryland species such as river otters and bobcats. The Northern Passage houses brown bears, bald eagles, and arctic foxes, while Penguin Coast is home to a large colony of African penguins.

Can visitors feed animals at The Maryland Zoo?

Yes, visitors often have the opportunity to participate in unique animal experiences like feeding the giraffes at a designated feeding station. There may also be special ticketed encounters, such as meeting African penguins or rhinos, that offer additional feeding opportunities.

Is parking available at The Maryland Zoo, and is it free?

Yes, parking is available at The Maryland Zoo and is typically free for visitors. The zoo is located within Druid Hill Park, which offers ample parking facilities.

ZooMaryland, US

The Maryland Zoo

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About

Nestled within the picturesque 745-acre expanse of Druid Hill Park, The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore offers an enchanting escape into the animal kingdom, making it a truly delightful destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. As one of the oldest zoological parks in the United States, established in 1876, the zoo blends rich history with immersive, naturalistic exhibits that transport visitors across continents and into Maryland's own backyard. With a collection of over 1,500 animals representing nearly 200 species, there's always something wild and wonderful to discover. The visitor experience at The Maryland Zoo is designed to engage and educate, fostering a deep appreciation for conservation.

Journey through distinct geographical regions, beginning with the award-winning Penguin Coast, home to North America's most successful breeding colony of African penguins. Here, you can watch these agile birds waddle and swim, with incredible underwater views in the Penguin Education Center. Continue your adventure through the expansive African Journey, where iconic wildlife like majestic elephants, towering giraffes, powerful lions, and striking zebras roam natural habitats. Don't miss the chance for an unforgettable giraffe feeding experience or to witness the playful antics of chimpanzees in the Chimpanzee Forest.

Beyond the savannahs of Africa, the Maryland Wilderness exhibit invites you to explore the state's native wildlife, featuring river otters, bobcats, and various avian species. Younger visitors will particularly enjoy the Farmyard, offering hands-on encounters with alpacas, miniature donkeys, pigs, and sheep, alongside the interactive Children's Zoo area. The zoo's commitment to animal care and conservation shines through its thoughtfully designed habitats and engaging keeper chats, making every visit a journey of discovery and a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting our planet's diverse creatures. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.

The Maryland Zoo boasts a storied past, tracing its origins back to the 1860s when the superintendent of Druid Hill Park began caring for a small collection of animals donated by Baltimore residents. The zoo was formally established on April 7, 1876, by an act of the Maryland state legislature, initially known as the Baltimore Zoo and later as the Druid Hill Park Menagerie. This makes it one of the oldest zoos in the United States. Early contributions, such as those from animal dealer Henry Bishop, helped form the nucleus of its animal collection. Over the decades, the zoo evolved, with infrastructure like a Camel House (1919), an Elephant and Hippopotamus House (1926), and a Reptile House (1948) being added. In the 1980s, the zoo began transitioning from traditional caged displays to naturalistic habitats, including the African Journey and Maryland Wilderness exhibits. In 2004, following a period of financial restructuring and increased support from private, state, and county funding, the institution was officially renamed "The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore," reaffirming its statewide significance.

What to do here

Enjoy daily keeper chats and animal demonstrations. Experience up-close encounters like giraffe feeding or a special penguin encounter. Ride the Jones Falls Zephyr train for a scenic journey past the African Journey exhibit, or take a spin on the animal-themed carousel. Explore the Wildlife Quest VR experience for an immersive journey to Africa.

Accessibility

The zoo features paved trails, making it generally wheelchair-accessible. A tram connects visitors to Zoo Central, which can be helpful as some paths are uphill on the return journey.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: Plan for a minimum of 3-4 hours to explore the main exhibits thoroughly. A full day (5-6 hours) allows for more leisurely viewing, participation in keeper chats, and enjoying attractions like the train and carousel.
Best time to visit: The zoo is open year-round, with each season offering unique experiences. Spring and fall provide pleasant weather for walking and active animals. Cooler months are ideal for seeing animals like river otters and the Amur leopard, and allow for indoor visits to the Chimpanzee Forest and Penguin Education Center. Mornings are generally less crowded and animals are often more active.
Location: Maryland, US
Species in this guide: 18

Best for

Families With Young ChildrenWildlife Photography EnthusiastsAnimal Conservation AdvocatesEducational Field TripsCouples Seeking A Unique Outdoor Experience

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Don't miss

Penguin Coast

Witness African penguins swimming and feeding, with excellent underwater viewing opportunities.

African Journey

Home to elephants, giraffes (with feeding opportunities), lions, zebras, ostriches, and white rhinoceros.

Chimpanzee Forest

Observe chimpanzees, lemurs, and Panamanian golden frogs in indoor and outdoor habitats.

Maryland Wilderness

Discover native Maryland wildlife, including river otters and bobcats, and explore the interactive Farmyard.

Wildlife you might spot

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

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

Beat the crowds and see animals at their most active by arriving shortly after opening.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo spans 135 acres, and while walkable, there's a lot of ground to cover.

Utilize the Tram

Consider walking downhill to the main exhibits and taking the tram back uphill, especially at the end of your visit.

Check Daily Schedules

Look up keeper chats, animal feedings (like the African penguin feedings at 10:30-10:45 am or 3:30-3:45 pm), and special demonstrations upon arrival or online to plan your day.

Pack Snacks and Water

While concessions are available, bringing your own snacks, water bottles, and even a picnic lunch can save money and time, with many picnic spots available.

Don't Rush the "Smaller" Exhibits

While large animals are a draw, take time to appreciate the smaller, often equally fascinating creatures in exhibits like the Chimpanzee Forest (Panamanian golden frogs) or the Maryland Wilderness (river otters, bobcats).

Frequently asked questions

: The Maryland Zoo features four primary exhibit areas: African Journey, Maryland Wilderness, Northern Passage, and Penguin Coast. The African Journey includes animals like elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinos, and zebras. The Maryland Wilderness focuses on native Maryland species such as river otters and bobcats. The Northern Passage houses brown bears, bald eagles, and arctic foxes, while Penguin Coast is home to a large colony of African penguins.
: Yes, visitors often have the opportunity to participate in unique animal experiences like feeding the giraffes at a designated feeding station. There may also be special ticketed encounters, such as meeting African penguins or rhinos, that offer additional feeding opportunities.
: Yes, parking is available at The Maryland Zoo and is typically free for visitors. The zoo is located within Druid Hill Park, which offers ample parking facilities.