Alaska Zoo

The Alaska Zoo is one of Anchorage’s most family-friendly attractions. Visitors can purchase standard admission to the zoo or opt for a combo tour, which may include other popular sights, like the Botanical Gardens and Anchorage Museum. The zoo offers daily critter chats, special animal encounter experiences, and behind-the-scenes “discovery tours” in June, July, and August.

• The Alaska Zoo is a must-see for animal lovers.

• The zoo is small compared to most major city zoos and can easily be seen in a half-day or less.

• Many of the exhibits are outside, so bring along plenty of layers.

• There are several gravel paths within the zoo, which may be difficult to navigate with wheelchairs or strollers.

The Alaska Zoo is situated on 25 acres (10 hectares) of the Anchorage hillside southeast of downtown, along the O’Malley Road. The easiest way to reach the zoo is by driving or, during peak season, taking the free daily shuttle bus, which connects the zoo and downtown Anchorage from May through September.

The zoo is open year-round and hours vary according to season. Behind-the-scenes zoo tours only take place during the summer months, but private tours are available throughout the year. The zoo features a free wildlife lecture series during the winter months and live music on the lawn on Friday evenings during the summer. From late November through early March, the zoo is aglow with lighted animal displays during the annual Zoo Lights event.

Animal lovers will also enjoy a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, located 45 miles (72 kilometers) south of Anchorage along the New Seward Highway. The center takes in injured and orphaned animals, and visitors can see an array of Alaskan animals like bears, moose, bison, musk oxen, and more roaming in their natural habitat.