Closer than the glass
For young children, the best zoo moment is often the one where they can put out a hand. These ten zoos and aquariums let children touch, brush or feed animals. Each has its own page on JuniorTravelClub with opening times and the full family facts; some encounters are paid extras or need booking.
1. National Zoo, Washington, D.C.
At the Kids’ Farm in the National Zoological Park young children may touch the cows and the donkey.
2. The Maryland Zoo, Baltimore
At The Maryland Zoo brushing the goats is covered by admission, together with the train and carousel.
3. Los Angeles Zoo
Younger children can get close to the goats in the animal contact area of the Winnick Family Children’s Zoo at the Los Angeles Zoo.
4. Detroit Zoo
The Detroit Zoo has a Goat Encounter Yard alongside its carousel and railroad.
5. Phoenix Zoo
The Phoenix Zoo has a petting zoo in the Big Red Barn, on a children’s trail reached over an old covered bridge.
6. Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
At the Cincinnati Zoo children can feed giraffes at the Giraffe Feeding Experience and join the kangaroo walkabout in Roo Valley.
7. Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, California
At the Living Desert giraffe feeding is walk-up, while the Rhino Encounter takes reservations.
8. Aquarium of the Pacific, California
The Moon Jelly Touch Lab at the Aquarium of the Pacific lets children touch jellyfish, and Lorikeet Forest brings the birds close.
9. Calgary Zoo, Canada
In season, children can walk through the lemur habitat at the Calgary Zoo.
10. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
The Children’s Adventure Trails at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo are included with admission, open depending on weather and staffing.
Tickets & tours for these places
Bookable tours via GetYourGuide. Affiliate links: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
