Mourning Dove
ZooArizona, US
Wildlife World Zoo
Wildlife World Zoo is Arizona's largest collection of exotic and endangered animals.
About
Wildlife World Zoo is Arizona's largest collection of exotic and endangered animals. This expansive destination in Litchfield Park combines a zoo, aquarium, and safari park, offering a truly immersive wildlife experience. Boasting over 600 species and thousands of individual animals across 215 acres, it provides a remarkable opportunity for visitors of all ages to connect with creatures from around the globe.
Explore distinct regions like the African Safari Experience, where you can spot African lions, ostriches, and wildebeest, or venture into Adventureland to see ocelots and spider monkeys. The Aquarium features multiple buildings with diverse marine life, including sharks, penguins, otters, and interactive stingray touch pools. Don't miss engaging animal encounters such as feeding towering giraffes from an elevated platform, interacting with colorful lory parrots, or catching a captivating sea lion show.
Beyond animal viewing, the venue offers a variety of attractions like the Safari Train, Skyride, and even a log flume and roller coaster, ensuring entertainment for everyone. With its commitment to education and conservation, Wildlife World Zoo promises a day filled with excitement, discovery, and memorable moments, making it a unique and enriching outing for nature lovers and families alike. Unlock an interactive field guide for this spot: get the Snappit app to identify nature on the go.
Wildlife World Zoo began as a bird breeding farm by Mickey Ollson on 5 acres in Glendale, Arizona. Ollson, a teacher with a lifelong passion for animals, acquired 25 acres in Litchfield Park in 1973, which would eventually become the zoo's current site. The zoo officially opened its gates to the public in September 1984, initially spanning about 30 acres with a few animals and employees. Over the decades, the venue saw significant expansion and development. The Aquarium, featuring sharks, alligators, and stingrays, was added in 2008/2009, followed by the Safari Park in 2014, and Adventureland in 2016, which included new rides and a Mexican restaurant. Mickey Ollson remained actively involved in the daily operations, overseeing its growth into a major attraction until his passing in January 2022, with his family continuing to uphold his vision and legacy.
Wildlife you might spot
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Snap map for this place
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Good to know before you go
Arrive Early
Get to the zoo right when it opens to beat the crowds and experience more active animals, especially in the cooler morning hours.
Stay Hydrated
Arizona can be very hot; bring plenty of water or refillable bottles. Utilize the air-conditioned indoor exhibits like the Aquarium for breaks.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park is large (215 acres), and you'll be doing a lot of walking. Paths are generally stroller-friendly.
Carry Quarters/Small Bills
Many animal feeding opportunities, like the giraffe feeding, use coin-operated dispensers.
Plan Your Route
Grab a map upon arrival and note showtimes and feeding schedules for animals like sea lions, penguins, and lory parrots to optimize your visit.
Consider the Rides
The Safari Train and Skyride offer relaxing ways to see parts of the park and rest tired legs, providing unique vantage points.
Frequently asked questions
- Most visitors recommend allowing at least 4-5 hours to see everything comfortably. If you plan to attend shows, participate in all feeding experiences, and enjoy the rides, a full day (6-8 hours) is easily achievable.
- No, outside food or coolers are generally not permitted inside the Wildlife World Zoo, though you are welcome to hand-carry drinks. Pets and emotional support animals are also not allowed; only trained and vaccinated service animals, as defined by the ADA, are permitted with visitors with disabilities.
- Visitors highly enjoy feeding giraffes from an elevated platform, interacting with lory parrots as they land on your arm for nectar, and touching stingrays in the aquarium's touch pools. The sea lion shows and penguin talks are also popular educational experiences.
Recent snaps at this place
May 25, 2026
May 25, 2026
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May 14, 2026
May 14, 2026
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