Zoo Knoxville

Zoo Knoxville is a 53-acre wildlife facility housing over 800 animals from around 200 species in specialized habitats. The park includes distinct areas such as Clayton Family Kids Cove and Boyd Family Red Panda Village, each designed for different visitor experiences.

The facility started as a newspaper initiative in 1923 called Birthday Park Zoo and later became the Municipal Zoo. In 1971, it was transformed into the present-day Zoo Knoxville with its current structure.

The zoo runs education programs and research projects that help visitors understand wildlife protection efforts. These activities show how local people can participate in conservation.

The facility is divided into East Zoo and West Zoo sections that can be explored at your own pace. Plan to spend enough time visiting different animal areas and themed sections throughout the grounds.

Zoo Knoxville holds the record for breeding the most endangered red pandas in the world, with over 110 births. This achievement makes it a key location for protecting this rare species.

Location: Tennessee

Location: Knox County

Inception: 1971

Operator: City of Knoxville

Address: 3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr, Knoxville, TN 37914, USA

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 09:00-17:00

Phone: +18656375331

Website: http://knoxville-zoo.org

GPS coordinates: 35.99990,-83.88800

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:40