ZooIdaho, US

Zoo Boise

Nestled within the picturesque Julia Davis Park in downtown Boise, Idaho, Zoo Boise offers an immersive and educational wildlife experience.

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About

Nestled within the picturesque Julia Davis Park in downtown Boise, Idaho, Zoo Boise offers an immersive and educational wildlife experience. As an 11-acre (expanding to 17 acres) zoological park, it is home to over 300 animals representing more than 100 species, providing a captivating journey through diverse ecosystems. Visitors can wander through the expansive African Plains, observing majestic giraffes, powerful lions, and Grévy's zebras, or step into the Gorongosa National Park Exhibit, which transports guests to Mozambique to see Nile crocodiles, olive baboons, and African painted dogs while learning about vital conservation efforts. Beyond simply observing, Zoo Boise is renowned for its interactive animal encounters. Guests can hand-feed gentle giraffes, offer mealworms to sloth bears, or get up close with friendly residents at the Zoo Farm. The zoo also features the charming Penguin Pavilion, where Magellanic penguins delight with their playful antics, and a lush Tropical Rainforest exhibit housing anacondas and capybaras. With a strong commitment to wildlife conservation, a portion of every admission fee directly funds projects in Idaho and around the world, empowering visitors to be part of the solution to protect endangered species. Zoo Boise continually evolves, with exciting new developments like the Virginia R. Bartak Red Panda Passage, set to open in 2025. This new exhibit will provide enhanced habitats for both subspecies of red pandas, a popular and "snappable" species. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), Zoo Boise upholds high standards for animal care, conservation, and education, making it a valuable community treasure and a must-visit destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

Zoo Boise boasts a unique and captivating origin story, beginning in 1916. Its genesis traces back to an escaped circus monkey discovered in the Mountain Home Desert after the circus had left town. This monkey, along with a collection of exotic birds, formed the initial menagerie that would eventually become Zoo Boise. In its early years, even the Boise Police Department helped care for the animals, collecting leftover food from local establishments to feed them. The zoo faced challenges, almost closing due to neglect in 1961, but was saved by a dedicated citizens' task force that established the Idaho Zoological Society, now known as the Friends of Zoo Boise. This organization has been instrumental in the zoo's growth and success. A significant milestone occurred in 2007 when Zoo Boise became the first zoo in the United States to implement a conservation fee (initially 50 cents, now $1) directly integrated into its admission price, turning every visit into a conservation action. Over the past decade, this fund has generated more than $4 million for conservation projects globally.

What to do here

Enjoy daily animal keeper talks, participate in seasonal events like "Boo at the Zoo" or "Roars and Pours" (21+), and explore the various habitat zones.

Seasonal info

Summer: The zoo operates with extended hours (9 AM - 5 PM). The seasonal "Butterflies in Bloom" exhibit is typically open from June 1st to Labor Day. Fall/Winter/Spring: Hours are generally 10 AM - 5 PM. While some animals may choose to stay in their heated indoor enclosures during colder weather, many can still be seen, and cold-weather species are often more active. The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

Accessibility

Zoo Boise is committed to providing an inclusive experience. It offers an accessibility map highlighting accessible routes, and service animals are permitted. Wagons, wheelchairs, and ECV scooters are available for rent. Visitors requiring disability-related accommodations are encouraged to contact the zoo at least two weeks in advance.

Don't miss

Gorongosa National Park Exhibit

Immerse yourself in the story of conservation and see animals like Nile crocodiles, olive baboons, and African painted dogs.

African Plains

Encounter iconic species including African lions, giraffes, and Grévy's zebras.

Animal Encounters

Don't miss the chance to hand-feed giraffes, sloth bears, or the friendly residents of the Zoo Farm.

Penguin Pavilion

Watch the Magellanic penguins swim and waddle.

Wildlife you might spot

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

African Lion

Giraffes

Tiger

Red Panda

Snow Leopard

Crocodile

Komodo Dragon

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

Zoo Boise shares parking with other attractions in Julia Davis Park, so arriving early, especially on weekends or during special events, can help secure parking.

Take advantage of encounters

Participate in the giraffe, sloth bear, or zoo farm encounters for a memorable experience and to directly contribute to conservation.

Check for events

Consult the zoo's website for special events, seasonal exhibits like "Butterflies in Bloom," or discounted days, especially during off-peak seasons.

Consider a membership

If you plan to visit multiple times a year, a membership offers free admission and other benefits, all while supporting conservation.

Combine with other attractions

Located in Julia Davis Park, the zoo is within walking distance of the Boise Art Museum and the Idaho State Museum, making it easy to create a full day of activities.

Pack snacks/water

You are allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks (excluding glass containers and straws) into the zoo.

Frequently asked questions

: Yes, Zoo Boise offers unique opportunities for guests to feed specific animals. You can hand-feed giraffes, offer treats to sloth bears, and interact with friendly livestock at the Zoo Farm, all for a small fee that supports conservation.
: Zoo Boise was the first zoo in the country to implement a conservation fee, which is now $1 and built into the admission price. This fee, along with proceeds from animal encounters, directly funds wildlife conservation projects both locally in Idaho and internationally, such as the restoration of Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique.
: Zoo Boise is dedicated to accessibility and provides features such as an accessibility map and welcomes service animals. Wheelchairs and ECV scooters are available for rent. The zoo recommends contacting them in advance for specific accommodation needs.