The Phoenix Zoo ranks as one of the city’s top family attractions, as well as one of the best zoological parks in the country. The zoo offers a variety of tour options, from eco-shuttle tours of the entire zoo to "backstage" tours that offer closer glimpses into different animal habitats.
The entrance to the Phoenix Zoo is located on Galvin Parkway in the heart of Papago Park. The easiest way to get there is by car, but you can also ride the light rail to Washington/Priest station and connect to bus 1.
The zoo is open daily throughout the year, with shorter hours in the summer months (June to August) to account for the heat. The best time to visit for both good weather and sparser crowds is on a weekday between September and October or January and May.
Unique to the Phoenix Zoo is the Endangered Species Carousel. This ride might look like a classic carousel, but upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that each animal is different. Instead of the usual horses, you’ll find a lion, elephant, rhino, zebra, and sea dragon, each handcrafted to look like its animal inspiration.