Fancy Kids – The Best Zoos in the World
With the Summer holidays drawing to a close, we know that parents might be running out of ideas of how to entertain the kids. So with that in mind, what better day out than a trip to the Zoo? Here in London, we have some of the most wonderful animal parks right on our doorstep. But if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, we’ve included a selection of zoos that are a little further afield. A trip to the USA not on the cards? We can always dream…
ZSL London Zoo, Regents Park, London
The oldest scientific Zoo in the world, ZSL London Zoo has been entertaining visitors of all ages since 1847. Home to over 750 different species, London Zoo has long been at the forefront of innovation; it was the first zoo to have a dedicated aquarium, reptile house and insect house. ZSL’s latest exhibit is the breath taking Land of the Lions. At 2500sq/m, visitors can get closer than ever before to a breeding group of Asiatic lions (there are just 400 left in the world). Kids will love the range of immersive activities on offer, from live animal shows to educational, interactive experiences. Located in the corner of Regents Park, London Zoo offers an inspiring, exotic world just a stone’s throw away from the centre of the city.
Battersea Park Childrens Zoo, London
Battersea Park is entirely tailored to children, offering a taste of the wilderness in the South of the city. A more modest selection than the vast offering of ZSL, this Zoo is both charming and lively and makes a great location for kid’s birthday parties. Expect to see meerkats and monkeys alongside the more farmyard friendly creatures including goats and rabbits. After watching live feeding of the animals, kids can blow off steam in the adventure playground while parents grab a coffee from the nearby café.
Sealife London Aquarium
Is your little one fascinated by all that lies beneath the depths of the ocean? The Sealife Aquarium is located in the heart of the city and is home to one of Europe’s largest collections of marine life. With thousands of sea creatures to explore, there are plenty of dramatic displays that will have your kids enthralled! From the Ray Lagoon to the Shark Reef, visitors can get up close and personal with some of the world’s most fascinating marine life. In conjunction with the release of the ever popular ‘Finding Dory’, the aquarium is offering an interactive trail inspired by Nemo and Dory. This is running until September, be sure to check their website for opening times and admission details.
Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay, North Wales
Complete with panoramic views of the Welsh countryside, the Welsh Mountain Zoo in North Wales was established in 1963. Home to many rare and endangered species, this conservation park is now run by the Zoological Society of Wales. Look out for rare Snow Leopards, Chimpanzees and Sumatran Tigers; kids can learn about the importance of conversation and pay a visit to the Children’s Farm. Expect rolling hills, exquisite gardens and calming scenery.
Yokohama Zoo, Japan
Upon arrival at the Yokohama Zoo in Japan, guests are given binoculars for optimal spotting of the zoo’s vast array of animals. Spread across a vast 100 acres, these will surely come in handy. Known as ‘Zoorasia’, this zoo has as few fences as possible, allowing visitors to spot the animals in an environment that mimics their natural habitat. Highlights include elephants, polar bears, black bears and proboscis monkeys, with plenty of interactive activities for kids.
Philadelphia Zoo, Pennsylvania, USA
Established in 1874, Philadelphia Zoo is America’s first ever Zoo. With over 1300 animals, this zoo is renowned for its dedication to breeding endangered species in captivity. The innovative PECO Primate Reserve is home to ten different primate species, from orangutans to gorillas and covers a vast 2.50 acres. Along with twelve endangered species of big cat (expect to see Afriacan Lions, Snow Leopards and Amur Tigers), Philadelphia Zoo offers overnight experience camps for the family, a once in a lifetime experience that should surely be top of your bucket list.