With so many exciting destinations around Kentucky, it’s difficult to prioritize and choose a favorite. No matter what type of activity you’d like to do, the Bluegrass State offers it, which may be why its largest zoo sometimes gets overlooked. We’ve featured smaller wildlife destinations in Kentucky, but since it is celebrating its 50th year, it’s time to check out the Louisville Zoo. This underrated zoo in Kentucky is a wonderful, family-friendly excursion and it is time to pay it a visit.

The Louisville Zoo first opened 50 years ago in 1969. The photo below shows the start of the building process in 1965. It began with only 250 animals, and the zoo is now home to over 1,100 creatures of all shapes and sizes from all over the world.
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The zoo is always evolving and adding new features, exhibits, and animals. If you haven't visited in a while, you'll probably notice some changes and improvements. This new spot allows you to walk and even enjoy a meal amongst the monkeys.
Facebook/Louisville Zoo
The zoo is divided up into continents, and also includes sections like Glacier Run and Islands. It's easy to walk from area to area, meeting a wide variety of wildlife both on land and under the water.
Facebook/Louisville Zoo
Everyone seems to have a favorite animal at the zoo, and many love Amber, the orangutan pictured below. The Louisville Zoo is home to many unique animals, and you can get an idea of what to expect on its website (linked below).
Facebook/Louisville Zoo

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Another favorite animal that you have to see is Hope, a 24-year-old pygmy hippo. You'll find her in the popular Gorilla Forest section of the zoo.
Facebook/Louisville Zoo
The zoo also hosts shows, events, and activities for families to experience during their visit. Be sure to pick up a map and check out the schedule of events to plan out your day and prioritize what you want to see and do.
Facebook/Louisville Zoo
Kids of all ages will love the Louisville Zoo, especially after trying out some of the areas that are just for them. Ride a camel, whirl around on the carousel, and save time for cooling off in the splash park, a unique feature of the zoo.
Facebook/Louisville Zoo
Things have changed quite a bit over the decades, and the Louisville Zoo is more visit-worthy than ever. Visit with elephants, lions, tigers, giraffes, seals, and many more fascinating animals at this fun-filled zoo in Kentucky.
Facebook/Louisville Zoo

The Louisville Zoo has over 1,100 animals that are eagerly awaiting your arrival. Celebrate 50 years of animals, visitors, and conservation at this must-see destination in Kentucky. Have you visited the Louisville Zoo recently? What is your favorite part or animal? Let us know in the comments!

For more information on the Louisville Zoo, visit its website here.

Address: 1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville, KY, 40213
Hours: Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

And for one of those other, smaller zoos in Kentucky, check out our previous article here.

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