Emily Flores
Not all zoos tell the same story, and anyone who’s visited a few knows the difference instantly. Some places feel thoughtful and forward-moving, while others seem stuck in a time capsule no one asked for. That split inspired this list, so we’re starting with the zoos earning real national praise before we talk about the ones slipping behind. Ready to see who truly sets the bar?
Saint Louis Zoo, St. Louis
A big reason people love the Saint Louis Zoo is how seriously it treats animal care. Experts place it among the country’s best because the habitats support healthy behavior and strong welfare. Its conservation work adds even more value. Free admission keeps the experience easy for anyone to enjoy.
San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, San Diego
The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park built their reputations through serious conservation research and breakthrough breeding. Their habitats feel close to real ecosystems, which experts consistently praise. The first birth of a giant panda outside China also happened here. Plus, the Safari Park adds open-range tours that offer up-close views of African wildlife.
Fort Worth Zoo, Fort Worth, Texas
You can see why the Fort Worth Zoo gets strong reviews once you walk through its habitats. Experts point to the level of care each species receives and its success in caring for endangered animals. Texas Wild adds another highlight by presenting native Texas wildlife in settings that feel familiar.
Bronx Zoo, New York City
The Bronx Zoo draws attention for more than its size. Specialists highlight its leadership in wildlife protection and the ethical approach behind its habitats. Many guests spend extra time at Astor Court, a historic section with Beaux Arts architecture that reflects the zoo’s early twentieth-century roots.
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium stands out because experts view its habitats and conservation work as truly forward-thinking. The huge indoor rainforest and desert immediately grab attention. The Desert Dome, known as the world’s largest indoor desert, remains the feature visitors most often talk about.
After looking at the zoos that set the bar, it’s only fair to check in on the ones struggling to reach it.
Topeka Zoo
Topeka Zoo appears on this list because it has faced repeated USDA citations in past years, including concerns over outdated enclosures, inadequate veterinary protocols, and several animal deaths linked to preventable conditions. Its tiger-breeding efforts are valuable, but they don’t outweigh these documented welfare problems.
Birmingham Zoo
Plenty of visitors walk into Birmingham Zoo and notice the problem right away: the habitats feel old. Some enclosures offer limited room, and the layouts no longer match what modern zoos provide. Daily care has also faced criticism, which pushes this facility well behind stronger U.S. options.
Special Memories Zoo
Special Memories Zoo became a cautionary example long before it shut its gates. It displayed exotic and domestic animals in Greenville, Wisconsin, until repeated USDA inspections revealed serious welfare failures. Those findings brought the operation to an end in 2019 and cemented its place among the worst.
Miami Seaquarium, Florida
Miami Seaquarium remains controversial due to long-standing concerns about cramped habitats and outdated care practices. Lolita, the orca, became the most cited example of these issues, and several dolphin areas continue to raise similar welfare questions, keeping the facility under persistent scrutiny.
Jungle Island, Florida
Jungle Island lands on the worst list because its emphasis has shifted away from animal welfare and toward theme-park entertainment. Zip lines, obstacle courses, and adventure attractions now overshadow the wildlife exhibits, raising concerns about how much attention the animals actually receive.