Our Hogle Zoo guide covers practical planning for Hogle Zoo Utah — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.

Hogle Zoo Travel Guide — Utah

As the Roam States editorial team, we've explored countless destinations across the US, and we can confidently say that Hogle Zoo Utah stands out as a premier wildlife attraction. Nestled in the foothills of Salt Lake City, this institution is more than just a place to see animals; it's a vibrant center for conservation, education, and family-friendly adventure. Our team consistently finds Hogle Zoo to be a thoughtfully designed and engaging experience, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling through the Beehive State.

Why Visit Hogle Zoo

We believe that a visit to Hogle Zoo offers a unique blend of entertainment and enrichment. It's a place where you can connect with nature and learn about global wildlife without leaving the Wasatch Front. The zoo is dedicated to providing high-quality habitats for over 150 species, many of which are threatened or endangered, showcasing a diverse collection of animals from around the world. Our team particularly appreciates their active involvement in conservation efforts, from supporting ranger stations in Nigeria to monitoring western toad populations right here in Utah. Every visit contributes directly to these vital initiatives.

Beyond the impressive animal collection, Hogle Zoo excels in its educational programming. We've seen firsthand how engaging their keeper chats and animal demonstrations are, offering insights into animal behavior, care, and the challenges facing wildlife today. For families, it's an unparalleled opportunity to foster a love for animals and an understanding of ecological responsibility. The zoo's commitment to creating immersive experiences ensures that every visitor, regardless of age, leaves with a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Who It's Best For

Hogle Zoo truly caters to a broad audience, making it an ideal destination for almost anyone. We find it especially perfect for:

• **Families with Children:** With interactive exhibits, play areas, and a variety of animals to discover, kids of all ages will be captivated. Stroller and wagon rentals are available, which we highly recommend for little legs that tire easily.
• **Animal Enthusiasts:** From African lions and giraffes to polar bears and orangutans, the zoo's diverse collection offers incredible viewing opportunities for those passionate about wildlife.
• **Nature Lovers:** The beautifully landscaped grounds and focus on natural habitats provide a serene escape and a chance to appreciate biodiversity.
• **Educators and Students:** The zoo's educational programs and commitment to conservation make it an excellent living classroom. Field trips are a popular offering, though we note that 2025-2026 field trips are already fully booked.
• **Couples and Adults:** Special events like ZooBrew, which offers adults-only evenings with local craft beverages and wildlife, provide a unique date night or outing with friends.

Getting There & Parking

When planning how to get to Hogle Zoo, you'll find it conveniently located at 2600 Sunnyside Avenue (840 South) in Salt Lake City, nestled against the eastern foothills.

By Car:

Driving is typically the most straightforward option for how to get to Hogle Zoo. From downtown Salt Lake City, it's about a 15-20 minute drive east on 400 South, which turns into Sunnyside Avenue. If you're coming from I-15, take the 600 South exit heading east, then turn north onto 1300 East, and finally east onto Sunnyside Avenue.

Parking:

We're pleased to report that parking at Hogle Zoo is generally free. There's a large main lot directly in front of the zoo, and an overflow lot located across the street. However, it can get quite busy, especially on weekends, holidays, and during special events, so we always recommend arriving early to secure a spot. For school buses, there's designated parking in the north parking lot, across the street from the main entrance.

Public Transportation:

For those preferring not to drive, public transportation is a viable option to reach the zoo. The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) serves the area. Several bus lines, including routes 4, 223, and 455, stop near Hogle Zoo. The University Medical Center station is the closest light rail stop, about a 6-7 minute walk away. Bus services from Salt Lake City to Hogle Zoo run hourly and take approximately 25 minutes. We advise checking the UTA website or using an app like Moovit for the most current schedules and routes, as services can vary.

Top Things to Do

There's no shortage of things to do at Hogle Zoo, making it easy to fill a full day or even multiple visits. Our team has explored every corner and highlights these must-see attractions:

• **African Savanna:** Immerse yourselves in the vast plains of Africa, home to giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and gazelles. The open habitats provide excellent viewing opportunities, and the Eccles Express train passes through parts of this exhibit.
• **Asian Highlands:** Discover the majestic animals of Asia, including snow leopards, Amur tigers, and red pandas. This area offers a chance to see some of the world's most elusive big cats.
• **Rocky Shores:** Witness the playful antics of polar bears, sea lions, and harbor seals in their expansive aquatic habitats. We especially love the underwater viewing areas that bring you face-to-face with these incredible marine mammals.
• **Primate Forest & Great Ape Building:** Observe various primate species, including gorillas, orangutans, and colobus monkeys. Keep an eye out for Basil, the young colobus monkey, and Weila, the Bornean orangutan born in June 2025, who are both thriving.
• **Small Animal Building & Norma W. Matheson Education Animal Center:** These indoor exhibits are perfect for cooler days or when you need a break from the sun, offering close-up views of smaller, often nocturnal, creatures.
• **World of Flight:** Enjoy impressive bird shows and learn about avian species from around the globe.
• **Eccles Express Train & Conservation Carousel:** For a bit of classic zoo fun, hop aboard the Eccles Express train for a scenic tour or take a spin on the Conservation Carousel. Both rides cost $3 per person per ride. Note that the train cannot run in rain, ice, or snow, and queue lines may close 15-30 minutes before the zoo closes.
• **Keeper Chats & Animal Demonstrations:** Check the daily schedule board or the zoo's Instagram (@HogleZoo) for times to catch these informative and entertaining sessions. They offer fantastic insights into the animals' lives and the zoo's conservation efforts. These are some of the best things to do at Hogle Zoo for a deeper understanding.
• **Seasonal Events:** Hogle Zoo hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. For instance, "Wild Wednesdays" in winter offer discounted admission, and "Boo at the Zoo" in October provides a daytime Halloween celebration. "ZooLuminate" is an after-hours event featuring glowing displays, though some animal habitats remain closed during this time.

When considering things to do at Hogle Zoo, remember that you're welcome to bring your own food and drinks, which can be a great way to save money. There are also numerous outdoor seating areas available for picnics.

Best Time to Visit

Choosing the best time to visit Hogle Zoo can significantly enhance your experience. Our team has found that each season offers unique advantages:

• **Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October):** These are arguably the best times to visit. The weather is typically mild and pleasant, making for comfortable walking conditions. Crowds are generally smaller than in summer, and the animals tend to be more active. Fall also brings beautiful foliage to the surrounding foothills.
• **Summer (June-August):** Summer offers the longest operating hours (9 AM - 6 PM). However, it can get very hot in Salt Lake City, and the zoo can be quite crowded, especially on weekends. If you visit in summer, we recommend arriving right at opening (9 AM) or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Look for ways to cool off at the Rocky Shores Splash Pad or in indoor exhibits.
• **Winter (November-March):** Don't dismiss a winter visit! While some outdoor attractions like the train might be weather-dependent, many animals, particularly the big cats and bears, are often more active in cooler temperatures. The crowds are much smaller, and the zoo offers "Wild Wednesdays" from November through February, with discounted $6 admission if purchased online. The zoo is closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

Regardless of the season, we always suggest visiting on a weekday if possible to avoid the largest crowds. Arriving right at opening or a couple of hours before closing can also provide a more relaxed experience.

Where to Stay Nearby

Finding comfortable Hogle Zoo lodging is key to a relaxing trip. The zoo's location in the eastern foothills of Salt Lake City provides several excellent options, ranging from convenient and budget-friendly to more upscale choices. Here's our guide to Hogle Zoo lodging:

• **University/Foothill Area:** This is the most convenient neighborhood for Hogle Zoo lodging, as it's just minutes away. You'll find a mix of hotels, often catering to visitors of the University of Utah. This area offers quick access to the zoo and Red Butte Garden.
• **Sugar House:** A vibrant neighborhood located south of the zoo, Sugar House offers a more local feel with a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. It's a short drive to the zoo and provides a good balance of convenience and amenities.
• **Downtown Salt Lake City:** For those who want to be in the heart of the action with access to a wider range of hotels, restaurants, and attractions like Temple Square, downtown is an excellent choice. It's roughly a 15-20 minute drive to the zoo, and public transportation is also available.

When considering Hogle Zoo lodging, we recommend looking for hotels that offer amenities like complimentary breakfast, pools (especially if traveling with kids), and easy access to major roads. Many hotels in Salt Lake City are well-regarded for their hospitality and value.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To help you maximize your visit to Hogle Zoo and explore the wider Salt Lake City area, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary:

Day 1: Full Day at Hogle Zoo

• **Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM):** Arrive right at opening to beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler morning temperatures. Head straight to popular exhibits like African Savanna and Rocky Shores. Catch a keeper chat or animal demonstration.
• **Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM):** Enjoy a picnic with food you've brought from home at one of the many outdoor seating areas, or grab a bite at one of the zoo's eateries.
• **Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM):** Explore Asian Highlands, Primate Forest, and the Small Animal Building. Take a ride on the Eccles Express train and the Conservation Carousel.
• **Late Afternoon/Evening:** Depart the zoo. Depending on your energy levels, consider a casual dinner in the Sugar House neighborhood or relax at your hotel.

Day 2: Salt Lake City Exploration

Today, we suggest exploring some of the other fantastic things to do in Salt Lake City.

• **Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):** Start your day at Temple Square, the spiritual heart of the city. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and stunning architecture.
• **Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM):** Enjoy lunch at a downtown restaurant.
• **Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM):** Choose from a variety of other things to do in Salt Lake City:
  • **Red Butte Garden:** Located adjacent to Hogle Zoo, this botanical garden offers stunning floral displays and walking trails.
  • **Natural History Museum of Utah:** Also near the zoo and Red Butte Garden, this museum boasts impressive dinosaur exhibits and showcases Utah's natural heritage.
  • **City Creek Center:** For some retail therapy, explore this open-air shopping center downtown.
• **Evening:** Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Salt Lake City's diverse restaurants.

This itinerary provides a balanced experience, combining the wonders of Hogle Zoo with the cultural and natural attractions of Salt Lake City. If you have more time, consider extending your Utah adventure to explore the state's incredible national parks like Zion National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park, or delve deeper into the best places in Utah.

Is It Worth Visiting?

Our unequivocal answer is yes, Hogle Zoo is absolutely worth visiting. As an independent US travel authority, we've evaluated countless attractions, and Hogle Zoo consistently impresses us with its commitment to animal welfare, educational impact, and overall visitor experience. It's not just a collection of animals; it's a dynamic institution fostering conservation and appreciation for the natural world.

The zoo offers exceptional value, particularly for families. The diverse range of animals, from the African Savanna to Rocky Shores, provides endless opportunities for discovery and learning. We appreciate the thoughtful design of the habitats and the numerous free daily programs, such as keeper chats, that deepen the visitor's understanding. The ability to bring your own food and the free parking also add to its family-friendly appeal. For those wondering "is Hogle Zoo worth visiting," consider its role in global conservation, its engaging exhibits, and its dedication to educating the next generation about wildlife. It's a place where fun and purpose seamlessly intertwine, leaving visitors with lasting memories and a renewed sense of connection to the animal kingdom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hogle Zoo with kids

Hogle Zoo is an excellent destination for families with children. We recommend renting a stroller or wagon upon arrival, as the zoo is spread across 42 acres and little legs can tire quickly. Look for interactive exhibits, play areas, and be sure to check the daily schedule for keeper chats and animal demonstrations, which are often a highlight for younger visitors. Don't forget the Conservation Carousel and Eccles Express train for added fun.

best hotels near Hogle Zoo

For the best hotels near Hogle Zoo, we suggest looking in the University/Foothill area for closest proximity. The Sugar House neighborhood offers a good balance of amenities and a local vibe, while downtown Salt Lake City provides the widest range of upscale and budget-friendly options with easy access to other city attractions.

Hogle Zoo tips

Our top Hogle Zoo tips include arriving early, especially on weekends or during summer, to avoid crowds and find good parking. Consider visiting on a weekday if possible. Bring your own snacks and drinks to save money, as outside food is permitted. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the zoo covers a large area. Check the daily schedule for keeper chats and animal feeding times to enhance your experience.

where to stay near Hogle Zoo

When deciding where to stay near Hogle Zoo, your best bets are the University/Foothill district for immediate access, or the lively Sugar House area for dining and entertainment. Downtown Salt Lake City is also a convenient option, offering a broader selection of accommodations and access to public transportation for a short ride to the zoo.

Hogle Zoo parking

Hogle Zoo offers free parking in a large lot directly in front of the main entrance, with an overflow lot across the street. We advise arriving early, particularly on busy days, as the lots can fill up quickly.

best time to visit Hogle Zoo

The best time to visit Hogle Zoo is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer mornings are also pleasant, but be prepared for heat and larger crowds later in the day. Winter offers unique experiences with active animals and discounted "Wild Wednesday" admission, but some outdoor attractions may be closed due to weather.

Last updated: 2026-07-09 by the Roam States team.