How much are tickets to Zoo Knoxville?

General admission tickets for Zoo Knoxville are $26.95 for adults and $21.95 for children aged 3-12 and seniors 65+. Children 2 and under are admitted free. Members receive free admission. It is recommended to purchase tickets online to save a $2 per ticket service fee applied to in-park purchases and to avoid lines.

What are some key exhibits at Zoo Knoxville?

Key exhibits at Zoo Knoxville include the Boyd Family Red Panda Village, renowned for its successful breeding program, Grasslands Africa featuring giraffes and soon-to-arrive rhinos, and Valley of the Kings, home to African lions and Hamadryas baboons. Visitors can also explore the Clayton Family Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Campus (ARC), which houses Cuban crocodiles, a two-toed sloth, and numerous endangered tortoises, as well as Black Bear Falls and Otter Creek.

Is Zoo Knoxville accessible for visitors with special needs?

Yes, Zoo Knoxville is a KultureCity Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue, offering a welcoming experience for guests of all ages and abilities. The zoo provides accessible facilities, including rentals for strollers, wheelchairs, and scooters. Sensory Bags are available at Admissions, and there are designated Quiet Zones and Headphone Zones throughout the park. Free handicap parking is also offered, and support persons accompanying special needs individuals receive complimentary admission.

ZooTennessee, US

Zoo Knoxville

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of East Tennessee, Zoo Knoxville is a vibrant, family-friendly destination renowned for its immersive exhibits and dedicated conservation efforts.

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About

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of East Tennessee, Zoo Knoxville is a vibrant, family-friendly destination renowned for its immersive exhibits and dedicated conservation efforts. Spanning 53 acres, this AZA-accredited zoo is home to between 800 and 1,500 animals representing over 200 different species, offering visitors a captivating journey through diverse ecosystems. From the moment you step inside, you'll discover a world where wildlife comes alive, inspiring a deeper connection to the natural world.The visitor experience at Zoo Knoxville is designed to be engaging and educational for all ages.

Wander through the Boyd Family Asian Trek and Red Panda Village, where you can marvel at the adorable red pandas, a species for which Zoo Knoxville is a global leader in breeding and conservation. Journey to Grasslands Africa to witness the majestic reticulated giraffes, with opportunities for unforgettable feeding encounters, and anticipate the arrival of southern white rhinos in 2026. The dramatic Valley of the Kings brings you face-to-face with African lions and Hamadryas baboons, showcasing powerful predators and social primates.Beyond the iconic large mammals, explore the cutting-edge Clayton Family Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Campus (ARC), an indoor facility highlighting endangered tortoises, fascinating Cuban crocodiles, and even a two-toed sloth named Joe.

Other notable habitats include Black Bear Falls, home to North American black bears, and Otter Creek, where playful North American river otters delight visitors. Zoo Knoxville's commitment to conservation, including its success in breeding endangered species like red pandas and tortoises, makes every visit not just an adventure, but a contribution to protecting wildlife globally. Enhance your adventure: download the Snappit app to identify the local species you encounter.

Zoo Knoxville's roots trace back to an inspiring community initiative in 1923, when a local newspaper launched a 'Birthday Fund' to create a park for underprivileged children. This led to the establishment of Birthday Park in 1935. The park eventually evolved, reopening as the Municipal Zoo in 1951, with its first attraction being an American alligator named 'Al.' A significant moment in its early history was the arrival of 'Old Diamond,' a seven-ton bull African elephant donated by the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus in 1963, which sparked renewed interest in the zoo. The modern Zoo Knoxville was officially founded in 1971. It quickly rose to prominence in the zoological community, achieving a historic milestone in 1978 with the birth of the first two African elephants in the Western Hemisphere. The zoo has continued its legacy of conservation leadership, particularly becoming known as the 'Red Panda Capital of the World' for breeding more red pandas than any other zoo globally, with over 110 cubs born since 1978. Recent years have seen significant growth and redevelopment, including the opening of the state-of-the-art Clayton Family Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Campus in 2021 and the interactive Clayton Otter Creek in 2022.

What to do here

Beyond animal viewing, engage in daily animal encounters and keeper talks. Participate in paid experiences like Giraffe Feeding or the VIP Rhino Experience. Enjoy additional attractions such as the carousel, Soaring Eagle Zipline, and Zoo Choo Train. During warmer months, the Clayton Safari Splash offers a fun way to cool off.

Seasonal info

Spring/Fall: Pleasant weather, active animals, ideal for a full day of exploration. Summer: Can be hot; animals might be less active midday. Utilize indoor exhibits like the ARC, shaded areas, and the splash pad. Special late hours might be available. Winter: Many animals, including red pandas, river otters, and big cats, remain active in cooler temperatures. Some animals are moved indoors on very cold days, but indoor viewing is often available. The Pilot Flying J Wee Play Adventure offers a warm indoor play area.

Accessibility

Zoo Knoxville is a KultureCity Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue, providing accessible facilities throughout the park. Strollers, wheelchairs, and electric scooters are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis. Sensory Bags are offered at Admissions, and designated Quiet Zones and Headphone Zones are available for guests needing a calmer environment. Free handicap parking is provided, and support persons accompanying individuals with special needs receive complimentary admission.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: Most families spend between 4 to 6 hours exploring the zoo, including its splash pad, rides, and play areas. For those focusing primarily on animal exhibits, 2-3 hours can be sufficient.
Best time to visit: The ideal times to visit Zoo Knoxville are during the spring or fall when temperatures are cooler, leading to more active animals. Arriving in the morning, right after opening, is highly recommended as it's less crowded and animals are typically more lively. During summer, checking for 'Early Bird Hours' can allow for a more comfortable experience in cooler temperatures.
Location: Tennessee, US
Species in this guide: 11

Best for

Families With ChildrenAnimal Lovers And Wildlife EnthusiastsConservation And Education Focused VisitorsPhotography EnthusiastsSchool Groups And Educational TripsSeniors Looking For An Engaging And Accessible Outing

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Don't miss

Boyd Family Red Panda Village

Grasslands Africa

Valley of the Kings

Clayton Family Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Campus (ARC)

Wildlife you might spot

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

African Lion

Giraffes

African Elephant

Red Panda

American Beaver

Black Bear

Baboon

Tiger

North American River Otter

Radiated Tortoise

Chimpanzee

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

Get to the zoo right at opening time to experience cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and more active animals, especially at popular exhibits like the Red Panda Village and Grasslands Africa.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across the 53-acre park, so comfortable footwear is essential for an enjoyable visit.

Stay Hydrated

Bring a refillable water bottle or purchase one upon arrival. Shade can be limited, especially during summer months.

Pack Snacks or Lunch

While dining options are available, bringing your own food and non-glass drinks (no straws for animal safety) can save money and cater to picky eaters. Picnic areas are located throughout the zoo.

Check Daily Schedule for Encounters

Upon arrival, grab a map and check the schedule for keeper talks and animal encounters, as times and availability can change. This will help you plan your route efficiently.

Purchase Tickets Online

Save $2 per ticket and bypass lines by purchasing your admission tickets through the Zoo Knoxville website in advance.

Frequently asked questions

: General admission tickets for Zoo Knoxville are $26.95 for adults and $21.95 for children aged 3-12 and seniors 65+. Children 2 and under are admitted free. Members receive free admission. It is recommended to purchase tickets online to save a $2 per ticket service fee applied to in-park purchases and to avoid lines.
: Key exhibits at Zoo Knoxville include the Boyd Family Red Panda Village, renowned for its successful breeding program, Grasslands Africa featuring giraffes and soon-to-arrive rhinos, and Valley of the Kings, home to African lions and Hamadryas baboons. Visitors can also explore the Clayton Family Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Campus (ARC), which houses Cuban crocodiles, a two-toed sloth, and numerous endangered tortoises, as well as Black Bear Falls and Otter Creek.
: Yes, Zoo Knoxville is a KultureCity Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue, offering a welcoming experience for guests of all ages and abilities. The zoo provides accessible facilities, including rentals for strollers, wheelchairs, and scooters. Sensory Bags are available at Admissions, and there are designated Quiet Zones and Headphone Zones throughout the park. Free handicap parking is also offered, and support persons accompanying special needs individuals receive complimentary admission.