Tulsa Zoo, Tulsa

Nestled within Tulsa’s expansive Mohawk Park, the Tulsa Zoo spans 85 acres and features a vibrant blend of animal exhibits, immersive environments, and conservation efforts. Owned by the City of Tulsa and privately managed since 2010 by Tulsa Zoo Management, the zoo operates as a non-profit and holds accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums through 2028.

The zoo’s standout attraction is the Lost Kingdom, inspired by ancient Asian architecture such as Angkor Wat. This lush area houses Malayan tigers, snow leopards, Chinese alligators, Komodo dragons, and more. Nearby, the Valley of the Elephant offers a 2.5-acre home for the zoo’s five Asian elephants, with indoor/outdoor viewing and an interactive demonstration yard.

The Robert J. LaFortune Wild Life Trek, formerly the North American Living Museum, highlights how animals adapt to four ecosystems: water, desert, forest, and cold climates. Notable species include seahorses, chinchillas, peccaries, and grizzly bears.

Rainforest lovers can journey through a recreated Central and South American jungle in the Rainforest exhibit, home to black howler monkeys, jaguars, sloths, and free-flying birds. Cultural elements and translucent roofing enhance the immersive atmosphere.

Other highlights at the Tulsa Zoo include the Chimpanzee Connection with indoor and outdoor viewing areas, the Helmerich Sea Lion Cove featuring a saltwater habitat with underwater windows, and the Penguin Habitat with African penguins, lemurs, and flamingos. The African Plains showcase giraffes, lions, rhinos, meerkats, and wild dogs, while the Children’s Zoo offers a petting yard, river otters, red kangaroos, and miniature horses.

The Conservation Center, dating back to 1957, houses a wide array of primates, reptiles, and exotic birds, while the zoo’s broader Conservation Program supports over 200 initiatives worldwide, including palm oil education and FrogWatch USA.

In 2005, Tulsa Zoo earned the title of “America’s Favorite Zoo” in a Microsoft-sponsored contest, outshining even the San Diego and Bronx Zoos. With its rich mix of education, conservation, and fun, Tulsa Zoo remains a cornerstone of Oklahoma’s family attractions.