Memphis Zoo

In the middle of the attraction hub that is Overton Park in Midtown Memphis, you will find what Trip Advisor once named the #1 Zoo in the United States, the Memphis Zoo.

The massive success story of this AZA-accredited zoological center started with one black bear named Natch in 1906. Since then this zoo has only gained momentum, picking up a plethora of conservation feats and animals along the way. Over 100 years have brought on over 3500 additional animals representing over 500 different species.

At one point this zoo was known as the 'hippo capital of the world' being home to the oldest hippo Adonis, who died at age 54 in 1965. The zoo also received high acclaim again in 2003 when it took on Ya Ya and Le Le, two Giant Pandas.

Today you can walk around and enjoy 19 major exhibits spread across 3 different 'zones'. Here's what you will see:

African Veldt
Animals of the Night
Aquarium
Cat Country
China
Dragon's Lair
Herpetarium
Northwest Passage
Once Upon a Farm
Pelican Pool
Penguin Rock
Primate Canyon
Round Barn
Teton Trek
Budgie House
Tropical Bird House
Zambezi River Hippo Camp

Student groups will want to take advantage of the sack lunches and zoo classes offered here, as well as any of the daily animal chats. There are after dark 'Ed-Venture' options that are fun as well, such as the Owl Prowl or Zoo Snooze.

Along the way you will see 4 different zoo gift shops as well as 7 options for food and beverages, so be sure to bring snack/gift money!