Kansas City Zoo

Kansas City Zoo showing signage and zoo animals as well as a large group of people
Kansas City Zoo which includes zoo animals, marine life and interior views
Kansas City Zoo which includes zoo animals and marine life as well as a small group of people
Kansas City Zoo which includes signage and zoo animals
Kansas City Zoo featuring zoo animals, a pond and bird life


Take a trip through an African plain, as well as meeting animals from other parts of the world, at this city zoo.

Kansas City Zoo has been in operation since the turn of the 20th century. From its humble beginnings with just one building, it has grown to cover more than 200 acres (80 hectares) and hold over 1,000 animals. The park is separated into habitat types that represent Australia, Asia, the Tropics and the African Plains. At the entrance you’ll be greeted by the zoo’s famous polar bear, Nikita, as well as the playful North American river otters. Explore the Tiger Trail to the left of the main entrance, then wander further into the park for a look at the snake enclosures. Next door the Australian area holds that country’s most iconic animals: kangaroos, wallabies and emus.If you’re visiting with children, head over to the KidZone, where the focus is on education. The Tropics area is an indoor rainforest that holds monkeys, lemurs and birds that move about amongst the tropical plants. The air-conditioned Discovery Barn provides welcome relief for families during the summer heat, and has a playground and climbing area for children.After all that, you’ve still only seen half of the park the African Plains stretches out across the rest of the space, occupying 100 acres (40 hectares). Jump on the train for a short ride across the park or walk it in your own time. The African area is widely regarded as one of the best of its kind in America. Lions roam the plains, while elephants, rhinos and zebras go about their lives in separate areas. Join the boat ride across the lake or enjoy a bird’s-eye view on the Sky Safari.The Kansas City Zoo is located in Swope Park, about a 15-minute drive south from the centre of town. Parking is free. A Metro bus from downtown stops at the zoo entrance every day of the week. The zoo is open year-round. Rides within the zoo cost a small additional fee.

Tours & day trips

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Private & custom tours

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Adventure & outdoor

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Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kansas City South

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kansas City South

3.5 out of 5
8601 Hillcrest Rd, Kansas City, MO
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kansas City South
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Stes Kansas City Sports Complex by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Stes Kansas City Sports Complex by IHG

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Hotel Lotus Kansas City Stadium

Hotel Lotus Kansas City Stadium

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Hotel Lotus Kansas City Stadium
InterContinental Kansas City at The Plaza by IHG

InterContinental Kansas City at The Plaza by IHG

4 out of 5
401 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO
InterContinental Kansas City at The Plaza by IHG
The Fontaine

The Fontaine

4.5 out of 5
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Amazing 3bd Troostwood Home in Kansas City, MO near most attractions!

Amazing 3bd Troostwood Home in Kansas City, MO near most attractions!

Kansas City
Amazing 3bd Troostwood Home in Kansas City, MO near most attractions!
Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza

Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza

3.5 out of 5
4445 Main St, Kansas City, MO
Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza
Seville Plaza Streetcar Hotel Museum District, Trademark

Seville Plaza Streetcar Hotel Museum District, Trademark

2.5 out of 5
4309 Main Street, Kansas City, MO
Seville Plaza Streetcar Hotel Museum District, Trademark
Full size home quiet neighborhood 5min to Plaza

Full size home quiet neighborhood 5min to Plaza

Kansas City
Full size home quiet neighborhood 5min to Plaza
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Kansas City Zoo

At Kansas City Zoo, visitors can enjoy an array of exciting activities, including thrilling animal encounters and captivating area sightseeing. The zoo is ideally situated near vibrant entertainment options, from engaging theatre performances to exhilarating sports events. Additionally, guests can attend concerts and shows, making it a perfect destination for adventure without delay. Embrace the lively atmosphere and diverse attractions that Kansas City has to offer.

Shopping

The nearest shopping experience is the City Market of Kansas City, offering a vibrant public market atmosphere just 12.9km from the zoo. If you're up for a drive, Towne Center Plaza, 14.5km away, provides a mix of entertainment and family-friendly shopping options.

Recreation

Enjoy the energetic atmosphere at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, just 6.4km from the zoo. For a more serene experience, visit Swope Park, only 0.6.4km away, where you can unwind amidst nature. For evening entertainment, head to the Gem Theater, 9.7km from the zoo, for captivating performances.

Adventure

Bay Water Park, located 9.7km from Kansas City Zoo, offers thrilling water slides and family-friendly attractions for a splashing adventure. For tennis enthusiasts, the Plaza Tennis Center, 6.4km away, and Harmon Park Tennis Center, 9.7km away, provide excellent facilities to enjoy a competitive game in a vibrant atmosphere.

Nightlife

In Kansas City, the Starlight Theatre, just 1.1km from the zoo, offers an enchanting outdoor experience. The Uptown Theatre, 8.0km away, and Kansas City Repertory Theatre, 6.4km distant, both provide captivating performances, making for a delightful night filled with culture and entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Kansas City Zoo

Within and around Kansas City Zoo, you can explore a variety of attractions, including event venues, entertainment arenas, and art museums. These points of interest cater to travellers seeking cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and vibrant city life, ensuring a memorable visit filled with diverse adventures and enriching encounters.

  • Crown Center: Located 9.7km from the Kansas City Zoo, Crown Center offers a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor spaces, shops, and dining options. It's perfect for leisurely strolls and spending quality time with loved ones.
  • Kansas City Convention Center: Situated 11.3km away, this venue is ideal for business travellers. It hosts various events and conferences, featuring modern facilities and a professional ambiance, making it a hub for networking and collaboration.
  • Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Just 6.4km from the zoo, this renowned art museum boasts an impressive collection of global art and stunning architecture. It's a cultural gem, perfect for art enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in creativity and history.

Best time to go to Kansas City Zoo

The best time to visit Kansas City Zoo is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January29.8°F (-1.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
February32.9°F (0.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
June75.7°F (24.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July79.0°F (26.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
December35.4°F (1.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kansas City Zoo

To save money during your trip to Kansas City Zoo, consider visiting between December and February, as this is the cheapest period. Opt for accommodations on Mondays, the least expensive day, and utilise Expedia’s search tool to filter for budget-friendly hotels, promotions, and eco-certified options. Combine your hotel stay with flights and activities for additional savings. For transport, take advantage of Kansas City's efficient and affordable public transport system or enjoy the area on foot. Lastly, keep an eye out for the best deals and available promotions to maximise your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kansas City Zoo are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kansas City Zoo is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Kansas City Zoo is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply organise the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near Kansas City Zoo with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.