Free Zoos and Aquariums in the USA

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Ready to explore without breaking the bank? We’ve got you covered with 33 zoos and aquariums that offer FREE admission! And hey, while entry is free, donations are always welcome to keep these amazing spots up and running. Let’s support these places together!

AZA Reciprocal Admissions Program — Photo credit Alice Daniels

Detroit Zoo — Photo credit Alice Daniels

Free Zoos by State

Arizona

The Navajo Zoo – Always Free to everyone!

California

Cabrillo Marine Aquarium – free with a suggested donation of $7 for adults and $3 for children and senior
San Francisco Zoo, free admission for San Francisco residents, free days are often the first or second Wednesday of the month.

Colorada

Denver Zoo has a free 7 days a year you can get thru a lottery

Delaware

Brandywine Zoo– Is free December 1st – February 28th due to some animals hiding

D.C.

Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Washington, DC Always free

Georgia

Bear Hollow Zoo – always free

Hawaii

Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo – always free

Illinois

Lincoln Park Zoo always free open 365
Phillips Park Zoo – always free
Brookfield Zoo-Free Admission for Military Personnel and free to everyone January-February 2023 on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays

Kansas

Lee Richardson Zoo, pedestrians are free, cars are $10
David Traylor Zoo – always free
Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo – always free
Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo – always free
Clay Center Utility Park & Zoo – always free
Hutchinson – free with a suggested donation of $2 per person or $5 per family

Maryland

Salisbury Zoo – always free and free parking

Minnesota

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory – always free
Zollman Zoo – always free

Missouri

Saint Louis Zoo – always free, said to be one of the best zoos

Rhode Island

Abrams Animal Farm This is not exactly a zoo but i don’t think you will be let down

Wisconsin

Henry Vilas Zoo – always free
Ochsner Park Zoo – always free
Menominee Park Zoo – free always
Irvine Park Zoo – always free
Wisconsin Rapids Municipal Zoo – always free
Manitowoc Lincoln Park Zoo
Concord Zoo – always free

Love free experiences? We’ve got even more for you! Dive into our guide to other awesome, no-cost attractions and join us in helping these places thrive. Your adventure—and your donations—make a big difference!