Animals are pretty fantastic and beautiful creatures. And sometimes we wish we could see them up close, not just through a TV screen.

Observing them in real life is a much more fulfilling experience than watching a documentary on Animal Planet.

And so, going to thematic zoo parks, specially made so that you can have the savanna experience, is much more exciting.

If you are tired of watching wild animals only on documentaries and you want to observe them up close we recommend you to pay a visit to these great zoos in our country.

1. The San Diego Zoo

Situated in the Balboa Park, this zoo protects over 650 different species from around the world. It has 100 acres and 8 different areas which is geographically split and organized.

2. The Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo, located in Chicago, has been open since 1866 and it’s the oldest zoo in the U.S. There are more than 200 species, among which there are also a few endangered species.

Don’t leave this amazing 35 acres zoo without visiting the Farm-in-the-Zoo and Mayari Pritzker Penguin Cove.

3. The St. Louis Zoo

There are over 500 species present in this magnificent zoo which can be visited in St. Louis, Missouri. More than 2.5 million people come to see their magnificent creatures each year.

The real attraction is the sea lion and the underwater tunnel which allows you to observe their habitat up close. Also, the entrance is free of charge.

It keeps getting better and better.

4. The Columbus Zoo

The Columbus Zoo And Aquarium is located in Ohio and it’s a non profit attraction which is also the home of more than 10,000 animals.

It’s one of the best and most popular sites where you can observe wildlife. After admiring the lions, giraffes and zebras you will definitely feel like you are in the HEART of Africa!

There are another 6 zones which represent the most exotic corners of the world, definitely worth a visit!

5. The Bronx Zoo

265 acres filed with a real-life jungle setting, forests, butterfly gardens and breathtaking highlands.

There are cheetahs, crocodiles,  porcupines, gorillas and so many more! It’s a must stop if you happen to pass by New York City.

6. The Smithsonian National Zoological  Park

If you happen to visit Washington D.C. you MUST visit this amazing zoo. There are over 290 species, it’s free of charge and you can find there almost any favorite animal of yours.

7. The Como Park Zoo

In Minnesota you can find the beautiful Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. Its beautiful and colorful gardens combines with the exotic and adorable animals make the perfect ambiance.

8. The Denver Zoo

This one has an interesting upbringing, it actually started with the bear cub the mayor in Denver received as a gift in 1918.

Over the decades it has become filled with thousands of species which currently live their best life in there.

Recently, it has been opened an animal hospital and a sloth exhibit!!!

9. The Houston Zoo

This zoo is the second most visited one in the country, having more than 2 million visitors each year.

This one  doesn’t have a free entrance, however, the money go directly to help 49 wildlife conservation projects worldwide.

You will have the time of your life with the otters, the exotic and rare birds and the sloths.

10. The Philadelphia Zoo

This one has over 1,500 animals from all the continents, making it the home of diversity.

11. The Dallas Zoo

The Dallas Zoo has a multitude of species.

What’s more interesting and appealing may be the fact that you can enjoy an AMAZING backstage tour of the whole safari along with a zoologist who will also give you insights regarding animal care.

12. The Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo

The Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is so much more than just a zoo, it’s a place of conservation, preservation, research and education.

It will be a fun adventure as well as an educational one.