The non-profit Phoenix Zoo, which focuses on wildlife conservation, includes not just animals from Arizona, but all over the world. Check out fun things to do, special events, and the four trails.
The Phoenix Zoo began with a dream. Robert Maytag, the grandson of the appliance company’s founder, had an idea –– the city of Phoenix needed a zoo. He and a group of supporters began fund-raising and organizing, although Maytag himself never lived to see his dream realized. In late 1962, Maytag’s widow cut the ribbon to open the zoo. The non-profit Phoenix Zoo, which focuses on wildlife conservation, has grown since those days. Today, it is the country’s largest privately-owned non-profit zoo. When you visit the Phoenix Zoo, you have the opportunity to see animals from all over the world, including desert dwellers. There are things to do, special events, and a few surprises as you wander the four trails of the Phoenix Zoo.
The baboons are popular at the Phoenix Zoo. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose
Into Africa at the Phoenix Zoo
It was a fairly warm morning when, camera in hand, I arrived at the zoo. I wanted to be early in hopes the crowds would come later and I’d have good access to the animals for my pictures. And, that plan worked, at least during the first hour. I headed for the Africa Trail (the zoo is divided into four separate trails). I marveled at the Zebras munching on grass. I love their markings.
The Zebras were grazing and didn’t pay too much attention to us. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose
Then, it was on to watch a tiger negotiating the branch of a tree and enjoying the cool of the morning. The Africa Trail is also home to baboons, gazelles, and giraffes. These tall giants were a kick to watch munching on their hay. Giraffe fans can join in and feed the giraffes during the scheduled Giraffe Encounters.
The giraffe looked down on us as he munched his hay. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose
The Arizona Trail
Next, I headed for the Arizona Trail. This fun trail is home to some plants and animals that are very familiar to we desert dwellers––coyotes, javelinas (one took up residence in my neighbor’s yard fairly recently), Sonoran pronghorns, and a Mexican gray wolf.
Javelina are frequently seen in the Sonoran Desert and you can catch a glimpse of them on the Arizona Trail at the Phoenix Zoo. Photo by Jerry Hopman via iStock by Getty Images
They even have a Saguaro cactus on display, and you can see plenty of those as you drive up Papago Park toward the zoo. If you want even more outdoor experiences studying the flora of the Sonoran Desert, be sure to stop by the neighboring Desert Botanical Garden.
The Saguaro blossom is the Arizona state flower. Photo by Susan Lanier-Graham
Tromping Through the Tropics Trail
I highly recommend the Tropics Trail, because of the aviaries you can explore and the chance to see the red-haired orangutans. My favorites along the Tropics Trail are the Komodo Dragons, the largest living lizard species on our planet.
There are only 3,000 to 5,000 Komodo Dragons left in the wild. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose
These guys can weigh more than 200 pounds and grow to more than 10 feet in length. And, their prey can be pretty large animals. I wouldn’t want to see one in the wild that close!
These huge reptiles move slowly around their habitat but they are known to kill and eat small to medium-sized mammals. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose
The Phoenix Zoo Children’s Trail
There are special trails and animal exhibits that allow kids to get a bit closer to learn about the wildlife. And if they want to pet an animal, be sure to stop by the Petting Zoo at the Phoenix Zoo. You’ll find plenty of farm animals in Harmony Farm. A favorite is Fernando, a two-toed sloth.
To-Do at the Phoenix Zoo
While ambling slowly through the Phoenix Zoo on a cool fall morning is lovely, there are options if you are not a walker. For an additional fee, you can take a 25-minute Safari Cruiser ride. You can also let the kids get up close to the camels. In fact, kids can take a camel ride and have their pictures taken.
Kids will enjoy a ride high atop a camel. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose
And, my favorite thing to do (even if you are just photographing the animals) is the Endangered Species Carousel.
The animals on the Endangered Species Carousel are beautiful to photograph. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose
The carousel animals are amazing works of art. You’ll enjoy seeing the lion, elephant, rhino, and more. These beautiful animals are all different.
Each animal is unique. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose
On hot days you can duck into the Phoenix Zoo’s 4-D Theater for short sensory-oriented films. Also, dip your hands in the water at Stingray Bay where you can feed and touch real stingrays. (They don’t sting!)
And There is More at the Phoenix Zoo
Kids can let off some steam at the Enchanted Forest, which has bridges, slides, and a treehouse for climbing. There are narrated walking tours for adults who want to learn more, photography tours, and scheduled backstage tours. Check the list of events for things to do when you visit.
Zoo aficionados can even get married at the zoo. The Phoenix Zoo has 15 venues for corporate parties and events. Kids love having their birthday parties at the zoo. Refreshments and craft activities are part of the birthday package.
What’s the White Pyramid You Can See from the Phoenix Zoo?
Something caught my eye when I was visiting the Phoenix Zoo. Overlooking the zoo, was a white pyramid on a hillside. I spied several walkers climbing up to it. Of course, I was curious. What I found out was this is called the Papago Park Pyramid and is actually the tomb of a former Arizona governor and his family.
There’s a fascinating story behind the pyramid. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose
George W.P. Hunt was the first governor of Arizona and served a total of seven terms. He presided over the 1910 Arizona Constitutional Convention that led to statehood.
Hunt had the tomb built in 1931 for his wife’s last resting place and it became his final resting place after his death in 1934. Hunt’s daughter and his wife’s family are also buried there. The austere white tomb overlooks Phoenix and, in the early days, was probably a serene place with a commanding view.
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When You Visit the Phoenix Zoo
The Phoenix Zoo is located at 455 North Galvin Parkway, not far from the Desert Botanical Garden. There is ample parking, but if you prefer, you can take a city bus directly to the zoo entrance.
Hours and days of opening vary depending on the season and any special events happening at the zoo. Admission costs range from $19.95 for children 3 – 13 to $19.95 for those 14 and over (2021 prices). I suggest you purchase tickets online. Be aware of extra charges for rides and events. Always check the website for details.
While there are places to sit in the shade, it is recommended that you bring a hat, water, and use sunscreen. You can purchase food at the zoo, but you are allowed to bring coolers, ice chests, and your own food. There are picnic tables along some of the trails.
In addition to the Phoenix Zoo, you can find more desert animals if the head to Tucson. There, the Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum features both large and small desert animals and helps you understand their habitats. Be sure to check out Wander for more to see and do when you visit Phoenix and explore the state of Arizona.
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