The Indianapolis Zoo is loaded with activities for the entire family, with an aquarium and botanic garden as well as a wide variety of animal exhibits. It’s home to 300 species housed within five biomes, large areas designed to mirror the habitats of the animals.
Explore the forests and observe red pandas hanging from the trees and Amur tigers prowling in the undergrowth. Step into the desert to see rare reptiles such as the Jamaican iguana, or roam the African plains where you’ll encounter zebras, cheetahs and giraffes. Kids will thrill to reaching out and actually touching the coarse skin of the sharks as they cruise by in the Ocean Biome.
If you arrive early, make the Forest Biome your first stop. Mornings are when the songbirds and insects are at their most vocal. And be sure to visit the Plains Biome before evening falls, as many of the animals head inside at dusk.
Don’t miss the entertaining daily shows in the Marsh Dolphin Adventure Theater. Children will also love the Kroger Splash Park, open in the warm months, when the temperature averages over 70 F (21 C). A change of clothes is advisable if you intend to visit this attraction. Jump aboard the White River Junction for an informative 10-minute train tour of the zoo, or test your nerves on the Kombo Family Roller Coaster these rides cost extra.
After you’ve explored the wildlife in the zoo, head next door to the White River Gardens and soak up the serenity in the Hilbert Conservatory or find a spot to relax in the Shade Garden.
The Indianapolis Zoo is located on the riverbank within the White River State Park, one mile (1.6 kilometers) from downtown Indianapolis. The admission price includes entry to the garden and aquarium. The zoo is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays in the cooler months, and on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s. Café on the Commons is open year-round there are other places to buy food and drink but they are open only in summer.
Indianapolis Zoo Tours and Activities
Visit Indianapolis Zoo
Popular places to visit
White River State Park
Museums, galleries, a world-class zoo and an award-winning sports stadium are all packed into Indianapolis’ favorite park.
White River Gardens
Explore the great outdoors at White River Gardens, a lovely green space in Indianapolis. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and fascinating museums.
NCAA Hall of Champions
A celebration of 24 types of college sport, this museum pays homage to student competitors, while its simulators provide a taste for pace.
Victory Field
Catch an event at Victory Field during your trip to Indianapolis. Experience the area's acclaimed art scene and fascinating museums.
Indiana State Museum
A blend of local and natural history, as well as the largest IMAX theater in the state, make for an engaging outing.
The Lawn At White River
Catch an event at The Lawn At White River during your trip to Indianapolis. Discover the area's acclaimed theater scene and notable monuments.
Best Lodging Options Near Indianapolis Zoo
- Vacations and getaways similar to Indianapolis Zoo
- Other Hotels near Indianapolis Zoo, Downtown Indianapolis
- Hotels near popular Indianapolis Attractions
- More Hotel Options in Indianapolis Zoo
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Dwtn-Union Stn
- Hyatt Place Indianapolis Downtown
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI
- Staybridge Suites Indianapolis Downtown - Convention Center, an IHG Hotel
- Hampton Inn Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI
- Hyatt House Indianapolis Downtown
- Conrad Indianapolis
- Holiday Inn Indianapolis Downtown, an IHG Hotel
- Bottleworks Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown
- The Westin Indianapolis
- Hotels near Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Hotels near Lucas Oil Stadium
- Hotels near Indiana Convention Center
- Hotels near Children's Museum of Indianapolis
- Hotels near Gainbridge Fieldhouse
- Hotels near Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
- Hotels near Indiana State Fairgrounds
- Hotels near Fashion Mall at Keystone
- Hotels near Butler University
- Hotels near Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Hotels near Old National Centre
- Hotels near Monument Circle
- Hotels near Dave & Buster's
- Hotels near 8 Seconds Saloon
- Hotels near University of Indianapolis