Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Nebraska Tourism
Henry Doorly Zoo which includes interior views and marine life as well as a small group of people
Photo provided by Nebraska Tourism
Henry Doorly Zoo showing a park and interior views as well as a small group of people
Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium


Journey through the world’s biggest indoor desert, spot magnificent creatures in the aquarium and explore indoor rainforests and swamps in Nebraska’s premier zoo.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a nationally renowned facility where you can embark on adventures through the desert, plunge into the shadows of the nocturnal world and explore the jungle, all in one day. Spot critters from around the world and take a ride on a carousel, a train or even a camel! The zoo has a wide array of habitats and exhibits, which showcase over 950 species of animals. Learn about the different creatures at one of the zoo’s daily presentations and classes provided for visitors of all ages.

Walk along trails that wind through the Lied Jungle, one of the largest indoor rainforests in the world. Peek through a waterfall into the foliage and you might see monkeys, tapirs and the bright-red flash of a scarlet macaw. Head to the aquarium to discover sea life from the polar regions to the tropics. See sharks circling above you and watch penguins from Antarctica.

Check out the pavilion for butterflies and explore the stunning aviary. Don’t miss the Desert Dome, an enormous glazed geodesic dome and desert environment that replicates the sandy habitats of Africa, Australia and the southwest United States. Beneath the dome lies the Kingdoms of the Night exhibit, a fascinating insight into the dark world of nocturnal animals.

Join a guided tour, attend a presentation or catch a documentary at the zoo’s IMAX Theater. You can meet zookeepers, watch animal shows or see the animals being fed. Get around the zoo easily via the train, tram and the Skyfari aerial tram. Choose from three different restaurants, including a treetop cafeteria overlooking the Lied Jungle, or grab snacks at the zoo’s concession stands.

The Henry Doorly Zoo grounds are located in Deer Park, between the Missouri River and the Durham Western Heritage Museum. Parking is available on-site for free. There are discounted admission costs for children under 12, as well as combination tickets for IMAX screenings. The zoo is open daily year-round, except for Christmas Day.

Plan a trip to see Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

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Hampton Inn & Suites Omaha-Downtown
Holiday Inn Omaha Downtown - Waterpark by IHG
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Central Omaha by IHG

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Magnolia Hotel Omaha

Magnolia Hotel Omaha

4.5 out of 5
1615 Howard St, Omaha, NE
Magnolia Hotel Omaha
The Inn & Suites Omaha near ZOO

The Inn & Suites Omaha near ZOO

2.5 out of 5
2920 South 13th Court, Omaha, NE
The Inn & Suites Omaha near ZOO
BridgePointe Inn & Suites

BridgePointe Inn & Suites

2 out of 5
3619 9th Ave, I-29 & I-80, Council Bluffs, IA
BridgePointe Inn & Suites
ZOO Old Market CHI Charles Schwab Field Cozy Downtown House

ZOO Old Market CHI Charles Schwab Field Cozy Downtown House

Omaha
ZOO Old Market CHI Charles Schwab Field Cozy Downtown House
Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs

Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs

4 out of 5
2200 River Road, Council Bluffs, IA
Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs
5-Star Zoo Stay w/Full Kitchen & Self Check-In

5-Star Zoo Stay w/Full Kitchen & Self Check-In

Omaha
5-Star Zoo Stay w/Full Kitchen & Self Check-In
Moxy Omaha Downtown

Moxy Omaha Downtown

3.5 out of 5
409 South 12th Street, Omaha, NE
Moxy Omaha Downtown
Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha Downtown Old Market

Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha Downtown Old Market

3.5 out of 5
555 S 10th St, Omaha, NE
Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha Downtown Old Market
Classic 4BR Bowery Hill Gem, Near Top Spots!

Classic 4BR Bowery Hill Gem, Near Top Spots!

Omaha
Classic 4BR Bowery Hill Gem, Near Top Spots!
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 Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

At the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of activities, including exploring diverse wildlife exhibits, engaging in outdoor adventures, and enjoying birdwatching opportunities. The zoo is renowned for its exceptional displays and nearby attractions, making it a prime destination for those seeking a memorable experience. Don't miss the chance to visit the bird sanctuary and participate in interactive exhibits that highlight the wonders of nature.

Shopping

At Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, you can enjoy shopping at Thunderbird Plaza, Cornhusker Retail Center, and Cornhusker Pointe, all located 8.0km away, offering a vibrant mix of businesses and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, consider exploring more shopping options beyond that distance.

Recreation

At Charles Schwab Field, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of live sports, just 4.8km from the zoo. Enjoy vibrant concerts at Stir Cove, located 3.2km away, or relax at the scenic Spring Lake Golf Course, a mere 1.1km away, perfect for a leisurely round of golf.

Adventure

Explore the Back-to-the-River Trail, a scenic outdoor path located 4.8km from the zoo, perfect for a refreshing hike. For an adrenaline rush, head to Joe's Karting, 3.2km away, where you can race go-karts. Alternatively, enjoy a game at Hanscom-Brandeis Indoor Tennis Center, also 3.2km away.

Nightlife

At the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, the nearby Orpheum Theater and Holland Performing Arts Center offer a vibrant nightlife experience. Both venues, just 3.2km away, showcase captivating performances, blending culture and entertainment with a family-friendly atmosphere that enhances the evening's charm.

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

Find the best attractions near Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

During your visit to the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, Nebraska, you can explore a variety of attractions, including urban parks, entertainment arenas, and historic colleges. This destination offers a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures, perfect for families. Be sure to check out the aquarium and other local zoos for additional fun activities that will enhance your trip.

  • CHI Health Center Omaha: This vibrant arena offers an exhilarating atmosphere with a variety of events, including concerts and sports. It's a great place for families to enjoy entertainment together while experiencing the local culture.
  • Creighton University: A renowned historic institution, Creighton University showcases beautiful architecture and rich traditions. The campus provides a unique glimpse into the educational heritage of Omaha, blending culture with a lively student environment.
  • Omaha Children's Museum: This delightful museum is perfect for families, featuring interactive exhibits that spark creativity and learning in children. With its family-friendly atmosphere, it's a wonderful place for kids to explore and engage with art and science.

Best time to go to Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

The best time to visit Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium falls in January, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January23.7°F (-4.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
February26.1°F (-3.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
June73.2°F (22.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July76.1°F (24.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August74.5°F (23.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September68.2°F (20.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November41.4°F (5.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December29.1°F (-1.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

To save money on your visit to Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, plan your trip between November and January when accommodation prices are lower, especially on Tuesdays. Avoid weekends, as Saturday stays tend to be the most expensive. Use Expedia to compare hotel deals, focusing on eco-friendly options, and sort by price to find the best rates. Consider booking a package that combines flights and hotel stays for additional savings. Additionally, explore free activities nearby to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, 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 Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay near the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia