Absolutely worth the visit from an out-of-towner. Looked like the were plenty of locals visiting as well though this was the Sunday before Labor Day, so it's hard to gauge how busy it would be on any given day. That said, even with a bit of a crowd and full reservations to the aquarium we were able to squeeze in no problem, and work around the crowd. Certainly some hot spots that can be tough to navigate with a stroller, but never enough to fully distract me from the experience. The staff were amazing from guest relations to the keepers and supervisors, it felt like there was almost always someone around the corner, not only ready but often excited to answer questions about animals/enclosures/care questions or even wait times/directions. If you're looking for a zoo/aquarium experience that allows you to actually just enjoy the animals without significant stress, this could very well be the place. Worth noting, we paid ~$20 a ticket and aquarium reservations would have an additional cost to them though not "technically required" (you'll likely have to wait). TL;DR: would I come again, 100% yes, and I'll likely bring a friend to share the experience.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium is pretty good. Today was our 3rd ever visit. The zoo is very well laid out. It is clean. The animals seem very well cared for. You can spend all day and have a great time. This was our 1st visit to the new aquarium. It was nice. Honestly, much smaller than we expected it to be. Really nice enclosures that were unique to other aquariums. Here's the downside. You really have to go on a weekday, early, during the school year if you want to avoid the crowds. We went today, a Sunday in the afternoon and it was mayhem. People are pretty rude and will just cut in front of you. The aquarium is packed even though it's by reservation only. It's just overall not fun if you go on a weekend or afternoon. My wife and I don't have children and we have been able to go during the week during school hours, and it's so much more enjoyable. You can freely walk the zoo without being trampled by strollers, children and their inattentive parents. Overall, it's a great zoo. You just have to know what you're in for or, go during optimal hours.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

What a fun zoo! A family member told me they'd visited prior and didn't see everything with the time they'd given themselves because there is so much. They suggested I visit earlier in the day and I am so glad I listened. This is definitely a zoo to spend the whole day at! I was impressed with how clean it was despite how many guests were visiting. There were some exhibits with a sign that mentioned some animals might not be in view but we were actually able to see everything (with the exception of the few that were off exhibit). There is a great variety of species and some cool experiences like the stingray touch area and aviaries. We got the unlimited ride passes and it was worth the money. My daughter got to enjoy the carousel and transport rides several times. While there were a lot other guests visiting, we never had to wait in line for rides or transportation. We did spend a good amount of time waiting for Dippin' Dots and to enter the stingray building though. *Be prepared to walk for parking. It fills up fast!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

I planned a girls weekend with my daughter and granddaughter. This was part of our adventures for the weekend. I had not been to the zoo in many years and was pleasantly surprised to see all the improvements they’ve made. The aquarium was really nice, although I did expect it to be a little bit bigger. The enclosures were well kept, and the animals seemed well cared for. The only drawback was, we went on a Saturday and the crowds were excessive. Very hard to get close to the animals or the exhibits with so many people pushing and shoving. It is quite a long walk to the African area and we ended up taking so much time there that we did not really have enough time to visit the rest of the zoo. So we plan to make a return trip so that we can see the parts we did not get to see. Overall, it’s a very nice zoo and well worth the time to visit. Although I do not recommend the funnel cakes near the front entrance. Definitely not worth the money as they are frozen and not fresh made.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

The KC Zoo is always a hometown favorite for my family and I. It's best to pack a lunch and some waters especially in the summer heat but money spent at the Zoo is also money being spent on our zoo's upkeep and to multiple causes they help protect and care for our zoo's animals... So splurging on ice cream, nachos , burgers or whatever your child's heart desires are good dollars spent. I would advise everyone to pay the $12 to ride the multiple modes of transportation offered by the Zoo as this allows you to ride the African Skyline, Tram, Train, Boat and the Carousel how ever many times you would like or you can buy individual tickets for each ride. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes and be ready to get a workout in! We went on a weekday this time around and as before it's the best to me, arriving early allows you to beat the sun, the crowds of people AND see most of the animals. If you want to see the entire Zoo I would also advise an early start and plan to spend the day !!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$6–10

It’s a good zoo. It has a train with a really fun tunnel, along with a carousel (but it doesn’t play any music which we felt was weird), both are three dollars a ride with 2 and under free with an adult who needs a ticket. They do have family bathrooms so that both mom or dad can change babies. It was HOT at 98 degrees the day we went and the hard part was not having much shade at all on the walking paths. Other zoos we have been to do such a good job with that and I really felt like this is what the zoo was missing. Thankfully they do have a lot of indoor things like stingrays and tropical and penguins to help cool off. I did see one water bottle fill up place I would guess there are more…. But I wanted one and hoped it would show itself and I never found it.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

The Kansas City is always fun! I prefer to go in the fall and spring but with kiddos I end up going year round. We always visit the stingray area. It is so worth it to rub them. Their protective barrier is so soft. The zoo has a new alligator area. It’s tough to see the alligators but they are there. The penguin pool area is also one of our favorites. We enjoy feeding the camels but my daughter refuses to feed the goats so we usually walk quickly through that area. One of my favorite places is the Elephant exhibitions area. They are such gorgeous creatures. I do wish there were more food and drink options throughout the zoo with places to sit and eat and not just near the entrance. You can always find us here
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$16–20

This weekend, I went to the Zoo to see the wildly anticipated new Aquarium. I made my reservation online, which was very easy to do. It is very nice that the aquarium ticket is included with your zoo ticket since, as of right now, the aquarium has reservations. You have to show up at your time of the reservation, but you can enter the zoo at any time of the day of your ticket; the aquarium is a good size, they have a description of what to look for, and they have staff answering questions along the way, they have bathrooms (all genders and a family one ) inside the aquarium and a little store before exiting the aquarium, definitely worth it, super fun for kids a new activity to enjoy with the family.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

GloWiWAld is happening from now until Dec 30. Lots of displays that light up in the dark, but are just as cool during the day. They offer trains, trams, boat, and chair lift to see the zoo with a wristband that's $12 for all or $3 for train, $2 for tram. Can't remember price for others. We only did the train and tram and it was nice to not have to walk the whole zoo which is huge. Plan a day for this trip. Food is expensive so I recommend bringing your own picnic. I wish we had done that. (Look into what's allowed 'cause like I said we didn't bring our own but did see others with homemade sandwiches and chips and other snacks). Very nice zoo.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

I’ve been visiting the KC zoo since I was a baby myself so being able to bring my son now is everything to me. I strongly recommend getting there first thing in summer. You’ll see a lot more of the creatures up and alert, especially in Africa, then. Plenty of baby, family, and toddler friendly bathrooms at good intervals and lots of water bottle refill stations everywhere. Everyone on staff is kind and very helpful. This zoo is always an excellent experience, and a must-see KC destination. Editing to add: I marked reservation recommended because buying tickets ahead online will let you skip the line at the booth. Parking is free.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

What a fun day at zoo with my baby boy and his classmates! School asked us to be there at 9:00 am and glad it was early. This is definitely a zoo to spend the whole day at! I was impressed with how clean it was despite how many children were visiting. There were some exhibits with a sign that mentioned some animals might not be in view but we were actually able to see everything (with the exception of the few that were off exhibit). There is a great variety of species and some cool experiences like the stingray touch area and aviaries. We went to AFRICA the boys special exhibit. They are alway excited for the lions, however it would be nice if they add a male lion. Lots of areas to cold off! *Be prepared to walk for parking. It fills up fast!

I went to the zoo in the middle of summer, the heat didn't allow me to enjoy this visit much! However, I liked this zoo, the only thing that did not seem logical to me was the fact that when paying for unlimited rides on the African safari train or the railway train you must get off and follow the line again (which at the time of the visit They were very long) I went just the day they opened the aquarium and I honestly felt very hot in there, it did not feel cold enough (as if the penguin plaza atmosphere was) considering the number of users and the carousel lacked a background music!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

Went to the zoo to see the new aquarium that they've got and it was amazing. There were so many different exhibits with such a variety of animals it was amazing. The kids enjoyed watching the the sharks swim around amongst all the fish. They like to seeing all the different types of fish that that are on display. Since it's a part of the zoo it does not cost to get in but right now I know they are doing reservations and 15 minute increments and it is well worth it. We were in there for almost an hour and a half and it did not seem like it because everything was just so amazing.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

The Kansas City Zoo is very large. If you want to see all of it be patient, wear a good pair of shoes, allow at least four hours (that’s moving fast) and strong walking legs. It’s other means of travel from on section to another but it does cost. The animals for the most part have good exhibits but most are far apart from another (as far as sections/countries). I personally have no problem with the zoo as I don’t mind walking and like taking photos but others I’ve been with before have complained. I don’t remember the last time I purchased food or drinks at the zoo so I can’t comment on the prices and the tickets are reasonable. Parking is free. I like the zoo in my opinion.

Went here for The Run for The Sharks! Every years they hold a 1 mile run and or a 4 mile run/5k. We spent allllll day from open until close at the zoo! The staff is friendly. The zoo can be complicated at times. Make sure you get a map. Through out the zoo there are misting spots, where you can be misted to help cool you off! I really recommend the zoo. Kansas City, Clay count and Jackson County residents get a discounted entry ticket for being local. Lately I feel like the animals have been more behind the seens than in the viewing areas.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$16–20

Haven't been to many zoos' in my lifetime, but I've got to say, I LOVE the Kansas City zoo!! There are so many animals to see and, depending on the season you attend, there may be more! I've gone every single time they give me the free pass for living in Jackson County, but finally decided to get the Season Pass! I've had the season pass since March and I'm glad I made the decision! My kiddos could spend everyday here and they have enough things throughout the year that make it so worth it aside from the animals themselves!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

We love to visit zoos in every city we visit. This zoo is incredible! We bought tickets online ( cheaper and faster), there are clean bathrooms throughout the zoo. A magnificent Penguin exhibit was our first location to visit. Even though parking lots were full ( free parking) it never seemed crowded. We never saw an empty enclosure....all the animals were out to be seen. Very shady pathways and benches to rest. We brought bottled waters in with us ( food and drink allowed). Lots of things to do with children: train, tram, sky ride, merry go round. We travelled with our grown boys so we just walked everywhere.

We had a very nice visit on a hot Thursday in June. We arrived about lunch time and stayed until 4 pm. It was nice and clean all over. We ate lunch at the tuxedo cafe. It was tasty if a bit expensive. The boat ride is my favorite. The boat leaves at quarter after and quarter until each hour from the closer side. It leaves on the hour and at the half hour from the far side. It's a pontoon and smooth ride. The sky tram is fun and you can see lots of animals that way. The rides pass is worth the cost to help on the hot days. They have added so much in the past ten years and are adding more all the time.

What a fantastic zoo! We travelled over to the UK to visit friends, and on our first day we decided to head here. The zoo is huge, tidy, easy to explore and hosts a variety of animals. Personal favourite exhibits include the African Exhibit which featured giraffes, zebra and different antelope. The elephant enclosure was also huge, allowing plenty of space for the animals. Facilities were all in perfect working order and cleanliness. Prices were good too. Would highly recommend!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$16–20

Very cool zoo with lots to see, with a huge aquarium/sea exhibit coming on 09/01/23 that cost hundreds of millions. Very excited to see that. Only complaint is the lake of drinking stations or vending machines. Also the ferry ride to get to one side of the park to the other closed down wile we were on the far side, and it was still running. We spent about 30 minutes lost with no help as there are lack of signs. Suggestion: paint sidewalks to where you need to leave the place.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

The zoo and aquarium are wonderful! The zoo is decorated for fall and has decorations for glow wild an evening light display. There are great photo opportunities. There are a great array of animals. Many spots for food. Restrooms perfectly spread throughout the park. They have rides including the sky view, train, tram, and boat. So much to do here, this is a zoo easily that fills a whole day. It is very spread out, wear comfy shoes.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

We were debating should we go to the Zoo because of the aquarium time limit. We decided to go & we enjoyed ourselves, it was hot. The animals were staying cool & weren’t really active. When we made it to the Polar Bear he gave us a show. The Polar Bear made you want to keep on walking in the heat & explore other animals. The aquarium was awesome seeing real live sharks swimming. They had face painting out there for the kids.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

I've been to many zoos through the years, but this one is always in my top 3. The exhibits are up close and personal, the staff is always friendly, and the zoo is clean and well-kept. There are lots of opportunities to interact with the animals, and the animals always seem happy, entertained, and well-cared for. My son loves the "endangered level" scale on the signs, and was super excited to see an animal that is extinct in the wild. Lots of baby animals too.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Love that they send ppl in the area free tickets . The glowild themes are awesome, love the inclusivity in lantern designs and holidays. The aquarium was well worth the wait the amount of space for these beautiful fish is wild and in a zoo is top tier love it. polar bear exhibit is mehh,i wish Nunik's whole area was always cold not just inside. Its the human in me to be concerned, but im sure KC zoo keepers all take amazing care of all the animals.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Pack some water if you plan to take the hike down to Africa, if you do it will be worth it! There are a lot of ways to take shortcuts through the zoo: trains, boats, a tram, the sky safari and the carousel... although that last one just took me in a circle. The zoo is absolutely fantastic and I can't wait for the aquarium to be opened. We were able to see most every animal while we were there and got some great photos.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Thank you for sharing the animals with us! We went the first week of December and had a blast! Lots of stations were closed but we came to see animals and we were not disappointed!! Be sure to bring quarters for souvenir penny making and for food to feed the goats and camels We also came back next evening for GloWild and enjoyed that just as much! Dress with warm layers! Like all zoos, there is a ton of walking between exhibits. We loved the Aquarium touch tanks!! A++ experience for our family!
Visited on
Weekday

I always love going to the zoo! It is really cool to me that they have some enclosures set up with natural trees and lots of open space for the animals. The kangaroos being out of an enclosure is also really nice too! I just think there are some places that could use updating and the polar bear definitely needs the changes to come first, that polar bear never looks happy and I really hope something is done to make it better for that animal. Overall, hope to be back soon! Thank you for a great experience at the KC zoo!

I always love coming here. It’s great to walk around, the exhibits are great, the staff is super helpful, and it’s nice and open. The new aquarium is also beautiful!!! So many cool fish to see and I LOVED the jellyfish exhibit. There were multiple types of jellyfish to stop and admire and watch. Very cool place that I am so excited to come and see again and again.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$6–10

This zoo is one of the best I’ve been to. They offer sky rides, tram rides, and a ferry ride. You do have to buy tickets for that separately. They have many naturally shaded areas and so much nature surrounding and inside the zoo. They also have inside exhibits where you can cool off as well. They also have a cute all inclusive park for little ones.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

The new Aquarium at the Kansas City Zoo is so well done. They have you reserve your day and time to help with crowd control. Your able to see everything. They really did a good job. We had so much fun today. The Zoo has really changed for the better over the years and is really worth going to see if you haven’t been in awhile. It’s a really fun day.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

We loved our trip to the zoo! Friday morning was full of field trip crowds, but it didn’t feel too crowded for the most part. We love that you can take your own food, snacks, and drinks. We had a 2 year old and he LOVED the team ride to Africa, so cheap and stroller friendly, (you don’t even have to fold it up). We saw lots of animals up close!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$16–20

There’s some empty walking involved especially if you’re not paying for the rides, but there is plenty to see and a discount for locals which is really nice. Each station provides great information for kids and adults— and you’ll probably run into at least a few animal chats just by exploring the place. I do wish there was more animal petting allowed, but that’s just me.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
$11–15

This is the first zoo I’ve been to that wasn’t the St.Louis zoo and it is way better than St.Louis by far. I definitely recommend bringing your kids and making a full day out of it but also recommend bringing your own food and drinks due to the prices. We will be going again in the future, hopefully with money so we can buy stuff.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

I'm happy to see how the Kansas City zoo is progressing to an education center about our natural world.. The new aquarium is a giant step forward from just a place that houses animals to explaining how we are all interconnected. Other places that felt forward thinking are the exhibits leading up and around the aquarium.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

I had such a great time, my boyfriend took me to see the elephants as a mid day date. ❤️ I love elephants. The park wasn't crowded, we got to see everything we wanted to. No lines but every employee we came across had a smile on their face and was so helpful, courteous, kind which made the day even more wonderful.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Great time for the family! Highly recommend! For the Aquarium, you must reserve a time slot online (no additional cost) or you will not get in it. Do the reservation before the day of your visit! We did the GloWild after and suggest going at 7pm to ensure the sun is down enough. In the pictures you can see the light difference between 6 and 7.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I had a great time at the Kansas City Zoo.....I had the pleasure of seeing all of the animals. They have improved many things..... restrooms, cooling stations and upcoming attractions like the sea life aquarium coming in September of 2023......if you like the zoo..... you must come and check it out!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

My family and I frequent zoos. This zoo is a must go zoo. They have a stingray bay where you can pet the stingrays and small sharks. They also have a sky ride, tram, and train. They have free roaming kangaroos, rabbits, and others. It was fun. Save 3+ hours to fully experience everything.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

First time visiting the Kansas city zoo, it's great exercise with the large park layout. Loved seeing the penguin exhibit, it was nice and cold inside. Now the concessions leave more to be desired, pretzel tasted like a microwave one you get at the store. But it was a nice experience.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

All the new additions added on top of the Aquarium puts the KC Zoo near the too of any zoo Ive ever visited. Very spacious and kid friendly. Lots of time live informational events at different animal displays throughout operating hours. I highly recommend the KC Zoo.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

It was my first time here with my daughter, and we had a blast! All the employees were friendly, professional, and helpful. I rented a scooter since I have a broken toe. My daughter had her face painted and rode the carousel. The rhinoceros just had a baby, too! Great times to be had by all.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

The zoo is always a great time for families! Lots to see and lots of little things for the kids to enjoy. A couple playgrounds and several indoor exhibits. We like to go year around if the weather permits. Would recommend getting a membership! Your own coolers/snacks/water/etc are allowed.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

This place is amazing. Always nice to visit and see the changes. It's clean and has restrooms located throughout the zoo. Some of the drink/refreshment places were closed but you can take ur own drinks in. We enjoy coming here when we visit KC.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

Highly recommend! Always a hit no matter what age. Buy the wristband to ride the Tram and air lift to Africa. Love how they let moms in free for Mother's Day. Bring a picnic lunch and eat in kids section. Feed the loralkeets
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Need to visit more! This place is HUGE, definitely and all day kind of thing, bring water and sunscreen to reapply! They have so much to do and see wear comfy others and shoes if you choose to walk and not get tickets for the tram/train.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Good shade by most enclosures so even a hot day doesn't feel awful. Wish there were a few changes to see a couple different animals better but I also get that they need privacy as well. Lots to do and prices in the park are very reasonable.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$16–20

It was fun. I really enjoyed seeing all the animals. I and my wife went on a weekday so it would be less crowded. Also, if you're not a fan of other people's kids, you'll be disappointed. A lot of those kids acted wilder than the animals.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

This is is like a walk in a park, that happens to jave a lot of animals! It's big! Big! There is a lot of room to enjoy the surroundings, more like arboretum! The exhibits are well thought out and informative but still kid friendly! My boys had a great time here!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

The Zoo was awesome. The new aquarium addition was fun and the staff was engaging. A great spot for any age, and a nice afternoon. Bring your own food and drinks, as the restaurants are on a pricy side. You will be walking a fair amount, so prepare for that.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Good walk spoiled. Not as many animals out (due to weather possibly). Buy the day pass for the sky tram, and the trains make it convenient for traveling with mobility issues. There are not enough food options.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

We went to the kc zoo today it was great all rides open saw Tigers lions leporads and the new aquarium was good loved it you guys should go to the kc zoo sometime it is so fun. By Benson My moms son. Age 11
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

Our kids live in KC. We love the zoo and have visited a few times. This was our first time at the aquarium. It was great, and was better the further in we got. It felt like we were swimming with the sharks.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

Very nice zoo. Took all day to explore. I did all of the rides and it was worth getting the bracelet. Food was very expensive but I tell myself I am helping the animals. The aquarium was very bright and cheery.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

My family loves visiting the zoo. We were glad that we made it just in time for the bird feeding. The kids loved it. Definitely would recommend good walking shoes or a little extra money for the train.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Glo Wild was majestic! It was a great way to visit the zoo at night and have a great time with family and friends. The route is not too long for toddlers and they even have hot chocolate/snacks midway through. A great little stop if you are visiting on a cold night. Definitely will be going again if it returns next year!

Nice place. Unfortunately some attractions were closed (to renovate). And weather was weird and they closed temporarily boat trip and Kenyan sky. Best: polar bear, stingray bay and penguin plaza.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

Love the new aquarium!! Interactive tide pools, great sitting areas & lots of new & interesting species! Check out the glow wild exhibit as well! It's a nice way to support the zoo & take a walk!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$16–20

Zoo lights experience was pretty neat! Takes about the hour to walk through at very leisure pace. Beverages available for purchase along route. Not many zoo animals available to see at night.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

First time visiting GloWild, and we loved it. We had a 6:15 pm. reservation, which was still kind of light out, but the lanterns were still just as neat but if recommend starting after dark.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$16–20

It was hot the day we went so a lot of the animals were inside but it was still a good experience and at beginning of September the aquarium opens so it should be a better experience!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

One of my favorite zoo trips to date, St louis use to be my go to favorite but after visiting kc zoo I've changed my tune. The animals care and comfort come first here and it shows.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

Great day trip adventure. Plenty to see and explore. It is fun for all age groups. The new aquarium is amazing and well put together. I could have spent hours in there just watching the fish in the large viewing area.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I've been to zoos All Over America and I don't know why Kansas City does not Place higher on the list of best zoos. The animals are very active here. The exhibits are large. The aquarium is amazing and the penguin exhibit is extraordinary. Polar bear puts on an amazing show. Its a phenomenal zoo!

The addition of the aquarium has improved an already wonderful zoo. It's my go to for kids and animal lovers alike. Highlights of the aquarium are the sea turtle, the massive shark tank, and the sea otters.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I've been going here since I was a kid. They are constantly updating a d upgrading. I love the penguin area. They have a train, trolley, boat tour, and sky lift.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Absolutely love taking a trip here every couple months. It's always so fun to walk around and see all the animals, and we can't wait to see the aquarium!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

Such a beautiful experience at the new aquarium. Beautiful sea creatures & the new otters were absolutely adorable. Friendly vibes. Definitely a workout tho!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

The Kansas City Zoo is such a wholesome experience! We go as a family every year, and I can't say it ever gets old. We're super excited to go see the new aquarium they finished this year!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Super fun, hard to take your time right now. when the crowds get a little lighter it will be nice to sit and watch a little longer. great addition to KC.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$6–10

We went to the Zoo as part of our daughters Make A Wish. It was AMAZING!!! Will for sure be going back, and telling everyone how cool it was. The only let down was the gift shop for me.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

The GloWild event is a fun season at the zoo. Lanterns are displayed as you walk through the zoo. You don’t see animals other than the lantern animals. Are you a photographer? Here’s a chance to find your creativity, pull the nifty 50 lense out, and enjoy an evening.

I have been coming to this zoo since I was a very small child. The addition of the aquarium is so great! Definitely worth a stop to see.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

I have the family membership, and we went during the week. It was so nice! This was my first time going without any kids, and I loved it!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

We went to Glowild and it was as awesome, and we as a family enjoyed ourselves. The Santa at Santa Village was an unexpected delight and a for sure win for all !!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Been going to this zoo for 20+ years! Love all the updates that have been made. Especially the aquarium! It's beautiful.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Large zoo with some animals I've never seen at other zoos across the country. Plenty to see that you could spend a full day here. It was pretty incredible seeing a polar bear appear content on a hot day. Definitely worth visiting at least once.

The zoo is very large so definitely plan out a few hours to explore. The newly opened aquarium is really beautiful, not very big but still really nice.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Absolutely massive zoo, would definitely recommend getting the platinum ride pass for the tram serive and skyride alone but we also rode the train two full laps and the Carousel. There was also a boat ride but it was closed on our visit.

First thing I noticed walking in this zoo was trash in the turtle pond. Was a bit unsettling. There was a lot more than I would have liked to see. Most animals looked unhappy. My biggest pet peeve was the straws they give you for the

I was lucky enough to be invited to a special preview event for the new aquarium. Not at all disappointed! It is also able to be used as an event venue, which would be a very fun and unique experience! Here's a couple sneak peek pix!!

It's a nice zoo, fun and lots of kids attractions and activities, you can easily spend the whole day here!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

Definitely a must do, I've lived in mo for 4 years now, I take my 4 year old son outside as much as I can, that being said there ant too many places in Saint Joseph to go and the places there are to go are ran down or just boring, I

Great zoo! Really large! Bring drinks and snacks and plan at least 3-4 hours to see all the animals! The platinum wrist band for the sky ride, shuttle, boat, and train (plus carousel) is totally worth it! We had great day!

We attended the zoo's glo event. Amazing sculptures made with fabric. It's a wonderful family event.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

Spent the whole day at the zoo with my daughter and her family! Loved the new Aquarium and the whole place was wonderful! We enjoyed the live experiences with the animals. The kids got to pet a Boa and other zoo animals

First time at KC Zoo. Great time. Be prepared to walk, the place is huge. New aquarium is amazing.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Took the Tram to the Africa exhibit then walked back through the zoo - half the walking and only $2.00 per person. Recommend the Gorilla Chat at 1:30 PM - my favorite part of the zoo. KC Zoo is highly recommended!

All of our friends at the Zoo were out today. The aquarium was crowded but still cool.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

Animals have seen better days. Winter isn’t the best time to visit…but, new aquariums are great and did not disappoint.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Gifted a membership and used it today again. My granddaughter loves it! It's so nice to be able to come and go whenever suits her.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

We LOVE the zoo. Pro tip: get the membership with unlimited rides if you have kids. This allows us to maneuver around the zoo easily and we can take short, 1-2 hour trips and

We went to see the GloWild, and it was awesome! Easy parking, reasonable prices, and what an amazing display! I was very pleasantly surprised. I highly recommend the display!

Very nice. My kids loved touching the sting rays and feeding the goats and giraffes. Sadly, so many animals were hiding due to weather. Make sure to go on a sunny day.

Always an amazing experience! If you're lucky, you may get an up-close photo opportunity with some of the animals! ‍❄
Wait time
No wait

It's the best place for a fun day in Kansas City. Very inexpensive, plus they have a wonderful train ride and a fabulous new aquarium. More

This was my first visit in several years, and it was great. Check out the various animal chats with the zookeepers and the aquarium. More

It’s fun for a family outing. Not a lot of places to get drinks like lemonade in the hot sun. But overall a good and fun time! More

Great zoo lots to see Make sure you don't go on a day that it's cool and overcast the animals outside don't seem to like it.

Great zoo. We bought the tram, skyline ride and boat. The boat was not working. Go at open. The animals were very active.

We loved our weekend here. Glo Wild was so amazing. And the aquarium was fantastic.
Wait time…
More