Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, located in Cleveland, Ohio, is one of the oldest and most visited zoos in the United States.
Established in 1882, the zoo spans over 183 acres and houses more than 3,000 animals representing over 600 species. It’s an excellent destination for families, animal lovers, and anyone interested in wildlife and conservation.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Travel Guide
Highlights and Must-See Attractions
- African Elephant Crossing: This expansive exhibit replicates an African savanna, providing a naturalistic habitat for elephants. Visitors can observe elephants cooling off in the waterholes, interacting with their herd, and participating in enrichment activities.
- RainForest: Home to over 10,000 plants and 600 animals, the RainForest exhibit is a two-acre, two-story building that simulates a tropical rainforest environment. Look out for orangutans, sloths, exotic birds, and reptiles as you explore this lush habitat.
- Australian Adventure: Experience the wildlife of Australia with kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. The exhibit also features a large aviary with free-flying birds and a themed play area for children.
- Primate, Cat & Aquatics Building: This area houses a diverse collection of primates, big cats, and aquatic species. Highlights include gorillas, lemurs, and the underwater viewing of the sea lions.
- Wilderness Trek: Journey through this exhibit to see animals from cold and temperate regions, such as grizzly bears, Amur tigers, and reindeer. The Wolf Wilderness section offers a glimpse into the lives of a pack of Mexican gray wolves.
- Asian Highlands: This exhibit transports visitors to the highlands of Asia, featuring red pandas, snow leopards, and takins. The naturalistic habitats provide a glimpse into the animals’ native environments.
Activities and Experiences
- Animal Encounters: The zoo offers various animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours for an additional fee. These experiences provide a closer look at some of the zoo’s residents and the chance to learn from zookeepers.
- Zoo Train: A family favorite, the Zoo Train provides a relaxing ride around part of the zoo, offering scenic views and an enjoyable way to rest your feet.
- Carousel: The Circle of Wildlife Carousel features 64 hand-carved animals and is located near the entrance, making it a delightful ride for children and adults alike.
- Educational Programs: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo offers numerous educational programs and camps for children and adults, focusing on wildlife conservation, animal behavior, and ecology.
Tips for Visitors
- Wear comfortable shoes: The zoo is large and requires a lot of walking.
- Check the weather: Many exhibits are outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather.
- Bring a camera: There are plenty of photo opportunities throughout the zoo.
- Plan your visit: Check the zoo’s website for the schedule of animal feedings, shows, and keeper talks to make the most of your visit.
- Stay hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during your visit. There are water fountains and refill stations throughout the zoo.
Conclusion
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. With its diverse array of exhibits and animals, interactive experiences, and beautiful setting, it’s a must-visit destination in Cleveland, Ohio. Enjoy your visit!
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