Jul 25, 2025
I had read that the Omaha Zoo was rated the number #1 zoo in the nation. I had never heard of it before so I wondered how that could be. We had to plan a trip there to see for ourselves!
I am here to tell you that the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium absolutely lives up to that statistic! We’ve been to our fair share of zoos, but this one didn’t just meet expectations, it completely blew us away! From jaw-dropping exhibits to hands-on kid experiences, Omaha’s zoo is a destination in itself.
One of the most impressive things about this zoo is the sheer scale and attention to detail. Every exhibit feels like a trip to another part of the world. Whether you’re walking through an indoor desert, trekking through a lush rainforest, or staring up at sharks gliding overhead in a massive aquarium tunnel, the experience is incredibly immersive.
We loved that the zoo was so clean and well maintained. Every exhibit looked fresh and well cared for. There were plenty of dining options around the zoo if you needed to grab a quick snack or full meal. We really enjoyed that the zoo had so many indoor and outdoor exhibits. The day we went was very windy and cold so having many options to check out inside gave us a great opportunity to take a break from the weather and still enjoy a beautiful zoo. Once the day warmed up, we were able to fully enjoy all the outdoor exhibits as well. It is the perfect mix of being inside and outside, so its perfect for hot, cold or rainy days!
Our Top Exhibits at Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo
Lied Jungle – A multi-level rainforest experience with monkeys swinging above you, waterfalls crashing below, and even bats flying overhead.
Desert Dome – The world’s largest indoor desert! We couldn’t believe how realistic it felt. From sand cats to meerkats, the kids were mesmerized.
Kingdoms of the Night – Located beneath the desert, this nocturnal exhibit is one of the largest in the world and had our kids in awe as they explored caves, swamps, and glowing critters.
*Note: This exhibit is very dark, and for younger children (especially toddlers or those who are sensitive to low light or eerie sounds), it might feel a little scary or overwhelming. I'd recommend holding hands, walking slowly, and preparing little ones ahead of time for all that they will see.
Elephant Family Quarters - We entered into a building that opened to a wonderful surprise of numerous mom & baby elephant pairs. We watched them get trained, do enrichment and roam around their open quarters. We all loved seeing such close up interactions with the elephants!
Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium – The walk-through shark tunnel was a family favorite. It truly makes you feel like you’re under the sea.
Favorite Kid-Friendly Activities at the Omaha Zoo
• Children’s Adventure Trails – This outdoor play area is open seasonally. It has rope bridges, climbing structures, a stream to splash in, and even a petting zoo.
• Train and Skyfari Rides – Riding above the zoo in the open-air Skyfari will give you stunning views (and a bit of a breeze on a hot day). The train will offer a relaxing loop around key areas, perfect for tired little legs.
*Note: These rides only open if the temperature will hit 50 degrees by 1pm.
• Scott Alaskan Adventure Splash Park - This is a fun, water-filled play area with life-size animal sculptures and spraying fountains that give kids a chance to cool off and explore Alaskan wildlife in a hands-on way.
*Note: The splash pad doesn’t open unless the temperature is 70 degrees by noon.
Helpful Tips for Visiting Omaha’s Zoo with Children
Here are a few things we learned to make your visit even smoother:
• Arrive early. There’s a lot to see, and it’s best to start before it gets too hot or crowded.
• Plan for at least a full day. You could easily spend two days there and still not see everything. (They do sell 2 day consecutive passes to the zoo for this reason).
• Bring swimsuits/towels for kids. The splash areas in the Adventure Trails are a hit.
• Rent a stroller or bring one. It’s a big zoo, and little legs tire quickly.
• Check the zoo’s calendar. They often have seasonal events and animal encounters worth timing your visit around.
• Go in the summer. Most attractions are weather dependent so there is a better chance of them being open and you get to experience the entire zoo if you go when it's warmer.
• Check if your zoo participates in the AZA Program. If you are members at your home zoo, check if it is part of the AZA organization. We got 50% off Omaha Zoo tickets with our Peoria Zoo membership card. (You must have your zoo member card with you).
Check if your zoo participates here: https://www.aza.org/reciprocity
Is the Omaha Zoo Worth It? Our Honest Take
Omaha’s zoo isn’t just one of the best in the U.S., it might just be the best we’ve ever visited. If you’re planning a family trip through the Midwest, this stop is an absolute must. We left with full hearts, tired feet, and endless memories. And we’re already dreaming of going back!
For more information about zoo hours, events, and experiences, visit the official Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo website.