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!
What to Pack for Your Free Zoo Day
Admission is free, but you’ll want to bring a few essentials to make the most of your visit:
- Reusable water bottle with strap and bag– Most zoos allow you to bring your own water. Stay hydrated and save $3-5 per person on bottled drinks.
- Comfortable walking shoes– Even small zoos cover 1-2 miles of walking. Your feet will thank you.
- Snacks – Many free zoos allow outside food. Pack granola bars, fruit, or sandwiches to save $30-50 on food.
- Portable phone charger– You’ll take way more photos than you think. Don’t miss the perfect shot because your battery died.
- Organic Sunscreen – Outdoor exhibits mean sun exposure, even on cloudy days.
Budget tip: The zoos listed here are free, but many are in expensive cities. Consider staying in budget hotels outside downtown and driving in. Compare rates on Expedia to find the best deals.
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.
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
New Jersey
- Cape May County Park & Zoo – always free
- Cohanzick Zoo – always free
New Mexico
- Spring River Zoo – always free
North Carolina
- Livermon Park & Mini Zoo – always free
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!
Adventure Gift Bouquets
