Saint Louis Zoo

Saint Louis Zoo is a zoo in Forest Park within the city of St. Louis, Missouri. The grounds cover roughly 90 acres and present species from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and other regions in themed sections.

After the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis, the city acquired the Smithsonian Institution's bird exhibit and turned it into the foundation of today's zoo. Over the following decades, new enclosures and themed areas transformed the site into a regionally recognized institution.

The zoo takes its name from King Louis IX of France, who also lent his name to the city itself. Families gather along shaded walkways between exhibits to rest, share meals at outdoor tables, and let children play in designated areas after watching the animals.

Admission to the grounds is free, while individual attractions such as the miniature railroad require separate payment. Wide paved paths allow wheelchair users and families with strollers to reach all main areas.

At Judy and Jerry Kent Family Sea Lion Sound, an underwater tunnel runs through the sea lion pool and allows visitors to watch the animals swim from below. The exhibit covers roughly 1.5 acres (0.6 hectares) and offers the seals multiple levels for diving and resting.

Location: St. Louis

Inception: 1904

Website: http://stlzoo.org

GPS coordinates: 38.63550,-90.29050

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:24