ZooUtah, US

Wild Kingdom Train Zoo

The Wild Kingdom Train provides a delightful, scenic escape within Lagoon Amusement Park.

About

The Wild Kingdom Train provides a delightful, scenic escape within Lagoon Amusement Park. Once a unique railway zoo, this attraction now invites visitors on a leisurely ride around Lagoon Lake, offering picturesque views and a moment of tranquility amidst the park's vibrant energy. The journey, powered by authentic steam locomotives, winds through a tunnel and along the lakeside, providing a different perspective of the park's landscape. It’s a perfect opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy a classic amusement park experience, appreciating the intricate details of the vintage trains and the natural beauty of the surroundings. While the train previously offered glimpses of exotic animals, Lagoon Amusement Park announced in March 2025 that the animal exhibits would be phased out throughout the year, with animals rehomed to suitable facilities. Therefore, as of the current date, the Wild Kingdom Train no longer functions as a zoo experience, but rather as a beloved, historic train ride. This transformation allows guests to focus on the charm of the steam-powered journey itself and the scenic vistas of the park. It's a wonderful way for families and train enthusiasts to enjoy a gentle ride, making it a memorable part of their Lagoon visit. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.

The Wild Kingdom Train has a rich history within Lagoon Amusement Park, tracing its origins back to 1967 when it first opened as the "Animaland Train". This narrow-gauge railway initially transported guests past various animal exhibits housed on the banks of a pond. In 1975, the attraction was renamed the "Wild Kingdom Train," and the park often advertised it as the second-largest zoo in Utah. The train featured two steam-powered engines, Houston and Merriweather, both built by Crown Metal Products (CMP), with Merriweather having previously operated under the name "Old Ironsides" on another park railway. Over the years, the zoo component of the Wild Kingdom Train faced criticism from animal welfare groups regarding the living conditions of the animals, leading to protests and USDA inspection reports citing concerns. In response to a desire to expand the park's offerings and likely due to ongoing controversies, Lagoon Amusement Park announced in March 2025 that it would be phasing out the zoo element and rehoming the animals. Several big cats were already relocated in late 2024, and the remaining animal exhibits were to be phased out throughout the 2025 calendar year, with the train ride itself continuing to operate.

What to do here

Enjoy the ride on the historic steam train, observe the park's landscape from a unique vantage point, and take in the charming details of the locomotives, Merriweather and Houston. The train's slow pace allows for careful observation of the park's various features as you circle the lagoon.

Seasonal info

Lagoon Amusement Park operates on a seasonal schedule, typically opening on weekends in spring and fall, and daily during the summer. Animal exhibits are no longer a feature, so seasonal changes in animal activity are not relevant.

Accessibility

As a train ride within an amusement park, the Wild Kingdom Train generally accommodates guests by boarding onto the train cars. Lagoon Amusement Park as a whole strives for accessibility, and guests with mobility concerns should consult the park's official website or guest services for specific details regarding boarding procedures for the Wild Kingdom Train.

Don't miss

The main highlight is the nostalgic journey aboard a real steam-powered locomotive, providing scenic views of Lagoon Lake and a gentle ride through a tunnel.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Steam Locomotive

African Lion

Tiger

Camel

Red Kangaroo

Eurasian Eagle Owl

Snap map for this place

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Good to know before you go

Check Lagoon's Schedule

Always verify Lagoon Amusement Park's operating hours and days before your visit, as they vary seasonally.

Combine with Other Rides

The Wild Kingdom Train is a great way to take a relaxing break between more intense rides or as a gentle start or end to your day at Lagoon.

Enjoy the Scenery

Keep an eye out for interesting views of the park, Lagoon Lake, and the passing landscape during the ride.

Appreciate the History

Take a moment to admire the vintage steam locomotives, Houston and Merriweather, which are part of the ride's historical charm.

Sit Back and Relax

The train offers a slower pace, making it an ideal opportunity to rest your feet and enjoy a peaceful moment with family or friends.

Frequently asked questions

: No, the Wild Kingdom Train Zoo no longer operates as a zoo. Lagoon Amusement Park announced in March 2025 that the animal exhibits were being phased out and the animals rehomed throughout 2025. The train ride itself continues to operate as a scenic attraction within the park.
: The Wild Kingdom Train offers a scenic journey around Lagoon Lake, showcasing various views of the amusement park and its natural surroundings. You'll experience a ride on a historic steam-powered locomotive, including passing through a tunnel. While it previously featured animal exhibits, these have been closed and removed.
: The Wild Kingdom Train began as the "Animaland Train" in 1967, offering rides past animal exhibits. It was renamed in 1975 and featured authentic steam locomotives. The animal exhibits, which were once marketed as Utah's second-largest zoo, were phased out in 2025 due to park expansion plans and past animal welfare concerns.