Our Lincoln Children's Zoo guide covers practical planning for Lincoln Children's Zoo Nebraska — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.
Lincoln Children's Zoo Travel Guide — Nebraska
Our team at Roam States has compiled this comprehensive guide to help you plan an unforgettable visit to the Lincoln Children's Zoo Nebraska. This beloved destination provides a habitat for a variety of animals and offers interactive experiences for visitors of all ages, making it a cornerstone attraction in the state. From up-close animal encounters to engaging play areas, we’ve got the insider details to maximize your trip.
Why Visit Lincoln Children's Zoo
The Lincoln Children's Zoo offers a unique and intimate experience that sets it apart from larger zoological parks. It's designed specifically with children in mind, fostering genuine connections between young visitors and wildlife. Home to over 400 animals, including more than 40 endangered species like the Sumatran tiger and Matschie's tree-kangaroo, the zoo provides educational opportunities alongside pure fun.
We appreciate the zoo’s commitment to interactive learning, offering experiences like feeding giraffes and engaging with lorikeets, which create lasting memories for families. The manageable 10-acre size means you can explore at a relaxed pace without feeling overwhelmed, a significant advantage for those traveling with young children. Beyond the animals, the zoo actively participates in conservation efforts, notably with its Red Panda Conservation Center, showcasing a dedication to protecting wildlife for future generations.
Is It Worth Visiting?
For families with young children, we confidently say that the Lincoln Children's Zoo is absolutely worth visiting. It consistently ranks among the nation's best zoos for children by publications like Parent Magazine, a testament to its child-centric design and engaging offerings. The focus here isn't just on viewing animals, but on hands-on interactions and immersive experiences that truly captivate a younger audience. If you're wondering, "is Lincoln Children's Zoo worth visiting?" for its unique approach to wildlife education and family-friendly atmosphere, the answer is a resounding yes.
While solo adults might find they can explore the entire zoo in about 90 minutes, families typically extend their visit to half a day, making it a perfect outing without consuming an entire day of your trip. The zoo's intimate scale and interactive nature mean that every moment is filled with discovery, ensuring that the question "is Lincoln Children's Zoo worth visiting?" is answered with enthusiastic approval from both kids and parents alike.
Who It's Best For
The Lincoln Children's Zoo is unequivocally best for families with young children, particularly those under the age of ten. The entire facility is geared towards creating an engaging and accessible experience for its youngest visitors. From eye-level animal exhibits to dedicated play areas, every detail is designed to spark wonder and curiosity in kids.
It's also an excellent choice for anyone seeking a more intimate zoo experience compared to larger, sprawling institutions. Grandparents looking for a relaxed outing with their grandchildren will find the pace enjoyable, and the numerous shaded spots and amenities cater to comfort. The zoo is a KultureCity® Sensory Inclusive™ organization, offering sensory bags, weighted lap pads, quiet areas, and headphone zones, making it an inclusive destination for guests with sensory needs. This commitment to accessibility ensures that a wide range of visitors can enjoy the animal encounters and interactive exhibits comfortably.
Getting There & Parking
Navigating to the Lincoln Children's Zoo is straightforward, whether you're arriving by car or public transport. The zoo is conveniently located at 1222 S. 27th Street, just south of A Street, approximately ten minutes from downtown Lincoln and fifteen minutes from the historic Haymarket district. For those driving, the primary routes are easily accessible from I-80; simply take the 27th Street exit and head south for about three miles.
Regarding parking, the Lincoln Children's Zoo offers free parking at its main lot, with entrances located off 27th Street, A Street, and Memorial Drive. While parking is generally ample, we recommend arriving earlier in the day, especially on summer weekends, as the main lot can fill up by mid-morning. Additional parking lots are available, and visitors can use crosswalks and bike paths to reach the zoo entrance. Handicap parking spots are conveniently located in the main zoo parking lot. For groups arriving by bus, specific bus parking is not permitted in the zoo lots; instead, buses are encouraged to use the loading and unloading lane on A Street, with parking available at Antelope Park. For those wondering how to get to Lincoln Children's Zoo without a car, StarTran buses operate along 27th Street, providing a public transportation option. Rideshare services from central Lincoln are also a viable and affordable alternative.
Top Things to Do
The Lincoln Children's Zoo is packed with engaging activities and up-close animal encounters that make it a standout destination. When considering things to do at Lincoln Children's Zoo, we always point to the interactive opportunities that truly define the experience:
- Giraffe Feeding Deck: This is often cited as a highlight, allowing visitors to get eye-to-eye with reticulated giraffes and hand-feed them lettuce. The cost for a giraffe feed bundle is $3.50, or $6 for two bundles. We advise heading here early on busy days, as the lettuce supply can be finite.
- Lorikeet Landing Walk-Through Aviary: Step into a vibrant tropical enclosure where rainbow lorikeets will perch on your arms and shoulders, especially if you purchase a cup of nectar. It's an incredibly immersive experience.
- Cat Canyon: This newer exhibit features Amur tigers and a snow leopard, offering multi-level viewing behind glass panels. Mid-morning is typically the best time to see the cats active before their afternoon naps.
- The Secret Jungle & Play Areas: Home to black-headed and Geoffroy's spider monkeys, The Secret Jungle also includes an indoor play area where kids can climb and slide like monkeys. Additional play areas, including a "dinosaur dig" sandbox, are located near the food court. These are some of the best things to do at Lincoln Children's Zoo for active kids.
- Humboldt Penguins: Observe these charming penguins in their habitat, often seen parading proudly.
- Red Panda Conservation Center: Discover these adorable, endangered relatives of raccoons in their dedicated, shaded habitat.
- The ZO&O Railroad and Carousel: Take a ride on the narrow-gauge train that circles the zoo's perimeter or enjoy the antique carousel featuring hand-painted endangered species instead of traditional horses. Train rides cost $3.
- The Hive: This indoor exhibit allows visitors to see and even touch a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods, including Madagascar hissing cockroaches and tarantulas.
Beyond these core attractions, the zoo frequently hosts special events throughout the year. For example, "Wild Wednesdays" in June, July, and August extend zoo hours until 8 p.m., offering cooler evening exploration. Adults aged 21 and over can enjoy "Brews at the Zoo" on select summer evenings, featuring craft beers, live music, and animal ambassador visits. The annual Family Fun Fest on July 17, 2026, promises an after-hours event with live music, carnival games, and animal encounters. These events add another layer to the things to do at Lincoln Children's Zoo, catering to various interests and age groups.
Lincoln Children's Zoo Hiking Trails
While the Lincoln Children's Zoo itself is a compact 10-acre facility designed for easy walking between exhibits, it uniquely integrates with some of Lincoln's broader trail systems. For visitors interested in combining their zoo experience with a stroll or bike ride, the Rock Island Trail and Billy Wolf Trails actually pass through the zoo area. This means you can enjoy the interactive animal encounters and then seamlessly transition to a longer walk or cycle on Lincoln's paved city trails.
These external trails offer a different kind of outdoor engagement, blending urban scenery with natural green spaces. If you're looking for dedicated Lincoln Children's Zoo hiking trails within the zoo's immediate confines, you'll find well-maintained walking paths connecting the various exhibits like the ZO&O Railroad, Critter Outpost, The Hive, and The Secret Jungle, ensuring an accessible experience for all. For more extensive hiking, we recommend exploring the adjacent Rock Island Trail or Billy Wolf Trail, which are part of Lincoln's extensive city trail network and provide unique Lincoln Children's Zoo walking paths for extended exploration.
Best Time to Visit
Choosing the right time to visit the Lincoln Children's Zoo can significantly enhance your experience. We generally recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Weekday mornings, outside of the peak summer months, often feel almost private, allowing for a more relaxed exploration.
However, if summer is your only option, we suggest arriving within the first hour of opening (10 a.m.) to beat the heat and the busiest crowds. This also ensures you have the best chance for popular activities like giraffe feeding, as the lettuce supply can run out by early afternoon on busy days. For a unique summer experience, consider attending "Wild Wednesdays" in June, July, and August, when the zoo stays open until 8 p.m., offering cooler temperatures and a different ambiance.
The zoo is open daily year-round, with indoor exhibits providing comfort during colder months. Special events like "Zoo Lights" during the holiday season transform the zoo into a festive wonderland, which is incredibly popular but also draws larger crowds. Member Appreciation Days, held on the first Wednesday of each month, offer exclusive perks for members, and "Member Extra Hours" in September provide early access. Ultimately, the "best" time depends on your priorities, but early mornings on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons offer a more tranquil visit.
Where to Stay Nearby
Finding comfortable and convenient Lincoln Children's Zoo lodging is easy, with a variety of options available to suit different budgets and preferences. Lincoln offers numerous hotels, from budget-friendly motels to more luxurious establishments, many of which cater to families.
For those prioritizing proximity and upscale amenities, hotels like the Graduate by Hilton Lincoln (4-star, ~2 miles from the zoo) offer a stylish and pet-friendly stay, complete with business amenities. The Drury Plaza Hotel Lincoln Downtown and The Kindler Hotel are also highly-rated options in the downtown area, providing excellent service and amenities.
If you're looking for family-friendly Lincoln Children's Zoo lodging with good value, the Best Western Plus Lincoln Inn & Suites (~5 miles from the zoo) and La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Lincoln (~4 miles from the zoo) are popular choices, often including free breakfast and pet-friendly policies. Other well-regarded hotels near the zoo include the Hampton Inn by Hilton Lincoln Downtown, Hyatt Place Lincoln / Downtown - Haymarket, and Embassy Suites Lincoln. Many of these hotels are within a short drive of the zoo and other Lincoln attractions like the Haymarket District, offering a convenient base for your exploration of Nebraska's best places.
For those who prefer extended-stay options, properties like Staybridge Suites Lincoln North East by IHG and Candlewood Suites Lincoln by IHG provide amenities like kitchens, which can be ideal for families. We recommend checking current availability and booking in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or if your visit coincides with major events in Lincoln.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To help you make the most of your trip, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary focusing on the Lincoln Children's Zoo and other nearby attractions:
Day 1: Immersive Zoo Exploration
- Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Arrive at the Lincoln Children's Zoo right at opening. Head straight to the Giraffe Feeding Deck for an unforgettable encounter, then explore Cat Canyon to see the tigers and snow leopard. Don't miss Lorikeet Landing for an interactive bird experience.
- Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Grab a bite at one of the zoo's cafes, such as Café 65 or Safari Café, or pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated areas (seating is first-come, first-served).
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Continue exploring The Secret Jungle, Red Panda Conservation Center, and the Humboldt Penguin habitat. Let the kids burn off energy at the various play areas, including the indoor Secret Jungle play structure and the dinosaur dig sandbox. Enjoy a ride on the ZO&O Railroad and the antique carousel.
- Evening (Optional, June-August Wednesdays): If visiting on a "Wild Wednesday," stay late until 8 p.m. to experience the zoo in the cooler evening hours. Otherwise, enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Lincoln.
Day 2: Lincoln's Highlights & Nature
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Start your day with a visit to Morrill Hall (University of Nebraska State Museum), home to Archie the mammoth, the largest mounted mammoth skeleton in any U.S. museum. This offers a great natural history complement to your zoo visit.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Head to Lincoln's historic Haymarket District for lunch. This restored warehouse district offers a variety of independent restaurants, from wood-fired pizza to classic burger joints.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Explore the Haymarket's unique shops or enjoy a leisurely walk. Alternatively, immerse yourselves in nature at Sunken Gardens, a beautifully landscaped garden featuring stunning floral displays and sculptures, just a short drive from the zoo (Sunken Gardens). For more active families, consider a portion of the Rock Island Trail or Billy Wolf Trail, which pass near the zoo, for a walk or bike ride.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: Depending on your interests, you could visit the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum for a dose of aviation history, or catch a local sports event. Enjoy a final dinner in Lincoln.
This itinerary provides a balanced mix of animal encounters, educational experiences, and local Lincoln charm. Remember to check specific hours and any reservation requirements for attractions in advance, especially for popular events or during peak seasons. For more ideas on planning your trip, visit our Plan Your US Trip guide or consider a USA Road Trip Planner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lincoln Children's Zoo camping
While the Lincoln Children's Zoo itself does not offer camping facilities, there are options for camping in the broader Lincoln area. Nearby state parks and recreation areas, such as Pawnee State Recreation Area or Branched Oak State Recreation Area, provide campgrounds for tents and RVs. For a unique experience, the zoo does host "Zoo Camp" programs for children, including half-day "mini camps" for younger participants, which offer animal encounters and STEAM-based activities but are not overnight camping experiences.
things to do in Lincoln
Beyond the Lincoln Children's Zoo, there are many things to do in Lincoln. We recommend visiting the historic Haymarket District for dining and unique shops, exploring Morrill Hall (University of Nebraska State Museum) to see Archie the mammoth, and enjoying the serene beauty of Sunken Gardens. Other attractions include the Durham Museum and Joslyn Art Museum in nearby Omaha, or venturing further to sites like Ashfall Fossil Beds, Boys Town, or Carhenge for unique Nebraska experiences. For outdoor enthusiasts, the city's extensive trail system, including the Rock Island Trail and Billy Wolf Trail, offers opportunities for walking and biking.
Lincoln Children's Zoo with kids
Visiting the Lincoln Children's Zoo with kids is an exceptional experience due to its child-focused design. The zoo's manageable size, interactive exhibits like giraffe feeding and Lorikeet Landing, and multiple play areas are specifically tailored for young visitors. We suggest arriving early, especially for popular animal encounters, and taking advantage of amenities like stroller rentals if needed, though some visitors find navigating without one easier in certain indoor exhibits. The zoo is also a KultureCity® Sensory Inclusive™ location, providing resources like sensory bags and quiet areas to support children with sensory needs.
best hotels near Lincoln Children's Zoo
Some of the best hotels near Lincoln Children's Zoo include the Graduate by Hilton Lincoln, known for its stylish comfort and proximity, and the Best Western Plus Lincoln Inn & Suites, which is highly rated for families and value. Other top choices include the Drury Plaza Hotel Lincoln Downtown, The Kindler Hotel, and the Hampton Inn by Hilton Lincoln Downtown, all offering excellent amenities and convenient access to both the zoo and other city attractions. We recommend checking reviews and amenities to find the best fit for your family's needs.
Lincoln Children's Zoo tips
Our top Lincoln Children's Zoo tips include arriving shortly after opening, especially on weekends, to secure parking and experience popular exhibits like giraffe feeding before crowds build and supplies run low. Consider purchasing add-on experiences like giraffe feed and train rides online in advance, though reciprocal zoo discounts for admission must be redeemed in person. Take advantage of the zoo's Sensory Inclusive™ resources if anyone in your party has sensory needs. Don't forget to check the zoo's event calendar for special happenings like "Wild Wednesdays" or "Family Fun Fest" that could enhance your visit. For dining, while the zoo offers food kiosks, the nearby Haymarket District provides more extensive options for picky eaters.
where to stay near Lincoln Children's Zoo
When considering where to stay near Lincoln Children's Zoo, you have a range of excellent choices. Many hotels are concentrated around downtown Lincoln and the Haymarket District, offering a balance of proximity to the zoo and access to dining and entertainment. Options like the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, Embassy Suites Lincoln, and Hyatt Place Lincoln / Downtown - Haymarket provide comfortable and well-located accommodations. For those seeking value, properties slightly further out like Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lincoln also offer convenient access to the zoo and other area attractions. We advise booking your Lincoln Children's Zoo lodging in advance, particularly during busy seasons, to ensure the best selection and rates.
Our team believes the Lincoln Children's Zoo is a must-visit for families exploring Nebraska. Its focus on interactive, child-friendly experiences, combined with its commitment to conservation and accessibility, makes it a truly special destination. From feeding a giraffe to exploring the Secret Jungle, every moment is designed to create lasting memories. We encourage you to plan your trip to this gem in Lincoln, Nebraska, and discover the wild wonders that await.
For more travel inspiration in the state, visit Visit Nebraska, the official state tourism site. You can also explore national parks and other attractions through the National Park Service.
Last updated: 2026-07-13 by the Roam States team.