Phoenix Zoo is Arizona’s largest zoo, covering 125 acres (51 hectares) of Papago Park with 3,000+ animals and 2.5 miles (4 km) of themed walking trails. In 2026, online admission costs US$37.95 per adult (14+) and US$27.95 per child (3–13); infants under 2 are free. Gate prices are US$39.95 and US$29.95 respectively. The zoo opens at 9:00 year-round; summer hours shift to 7:00–13:00 to beat Arizona’s extreme heat. ZooLights runs late November through mid-January.
Phoenix Zoo has been a cornerstone of Arizona’s wildlife education and conservation mission since 1962, when Robert E. Maytag (grandson of the appliance company founder) helped establish it. Today it is the largest privately owned, non-profit zoo in the United States and a genuine “Phoenix Point of Pride.” Its 125 acres in the scenic red-rock setting of Papago Park house more than 3,000 animals across four themed trails, alongside one of the most distinctive winter events in the Southwest — the Phoenix ZooLights.
Planning around Phoenix’s extreme summer heat is essential — the zoo adjusts its hours significantly from May through September to protect both visitors and animals.
Top Tickets
# Phoenix Zoo One-Day General Admission Ticket
# Phoenix ZooLights Entry Ticket
Table of Contents
Phoenix Zoo Tickets — Prices & Options
Phoenix Zoo tickets in 2026 cost US$37.95 online per adult (14+) and US$27.95 per child (3–13). Gate prices are US$39.95 adult and US$29.95 child — buying online saves US$2 per ticket. Children under 2 are free. ZooLights evening event tickets cost approximately US$30 per person (ages 3+). EBT/SNAP cardholders with a valid Arizona card pay US$10 per ticket on Tuesdays and Sundays only. Zoo members receive early entry at 8:00. Tickets are good for one year from purchase date.
| Category | Online Price | Gate Price |
| Adult (14+) | US$37.95 | US$39.95 |
| Child (3–13) | US$27.95 | US$29.95 |
| Infant (under 2) | Free | Free |
| ZooLights (3+, seasonal) | ~US$30 | — |
| EBT/SNAP (AZ card, Tue & Sun only) | US$10/ticket | — |
One-Day Phoenix Zoo Admission Ticket
Full access to all four animal trails (Africa Trail, Arizona Trail, Tropics Trail, Children’s Trail), the “Dinosaurs in the Desert” exhibit, Stingray Bay, giraffe encounter viewing, Monkey Village, and Harmony Farm petting zoo. Tickets are valid for one year from purchase date. Buy online to save US$2 per ticket and skip the ticket booth queue.
Buy This TicketPhoenix ZooLights Entry Ticket
ZooLights is Phoenix Zoo’s acclaimed holiday light event, running late November through mid-January from 17:30 to 22:30 nightly. Millions of LED lights illuminate the zoo with animal-shaped lanterns, light tunnels, a Wildlife Lantern Cul-de-Sac on Africa Trail, seasonal entertainment, and holiday activities. Admission includes the “Dinosaurs in the Desert” exhibit. An enhancement over a regular zoo visit — the lit-up Papago Park setting is genuinely spectacular.
Buy This TicketPhoenix Zoo + Hall of Flame Fire Museum Combo
The Hall of Flame Fire Museum — home to the world’s largest and finest firefighting collection — is less than one mile from Phoenix Zoo. This combo ticket covers both attractions at a 10% discount. Visit in either order; the museum is a compact 2-hour experience that pairs well with a morning at the zoo.
Buy This TicketOpening Hours
Phoenix Zoo operates seasonal hours to protect visitors and animals from Arizona’s extreme summer heat. Standard hours (Jan–Apr, Oct–Dec): 9:00–17:00. Summer hours (May–Sep): 7:00–13:00 — an early start is essential as temperatures soar by midday. Zoo members receive early access at 8:00 during regular season. ZooLights runs late November–mid-January, 17:30–22:30. The zoo is closed on Christmas Day.
| Season / Event | Hours |
| January–April & October–December | 9:00 – 17:00 |
| May–September (Summer Hours) | 7:00 – 13:00 |
| Members Early Access (regular season) | 8:00 |
| ZooLights (late Nov–mid Jan) | 17:30 – 22:30 |
| Christmas Day | Closed |
Important: Summer hours (May–September) start at 7:00 and close at 13:00. If visiting in summer, arrive at 7:00 — by 10:00 temperatures become uncomfortable for both visitors and animals.
Best Time to Visit Phoenix Zoo
October through April is the best time to visit Phoenix Zoo. Winter and spring offer mild temperatures perfect for walking 2.5 miles of outdoor trails. In summer (May–September), the zoo opens at 7:00 and closes at 13:00 to avoid extreme afternoon heat — start at opening if visiting in summer. Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends; the busiest period is 10:00–14:00 on weekends. Evenings during ZooLights (late November–mid-January) are a spectacular seasonal alternative.
Arizona’s summers are genuinely extreme — temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F). The zoo’s shift to 7:00–13:00 summer hours is designed to allow wildlife viewing before the peak heat. Always carry sunscreen, a hat, a water bottle, and optionally a cooler.
How Long Does Phoenix Zoo Take?
Plan 3–4 hours for a complete visit to Phoenix Zoo. The zoo’s 2.5 miles (4 km) of themed trails cover 125 acres. Budget approximately 1 hour each for the Africa and Tropics Trails, and 1.5 hours for the Arizona and Children’s Trails combined. In summer, the 6-hour window (7:00–13:00) is enough for everything if you arrive at opening.
The Four Animal Trails
Phoenix Zoo’s four trails cover: Africa Trail (painted dogs, hamadryas baboons, Grévy’s zebras, mandrills, ostriches, gazelles, southern white rhinos, lions, cheetahs, giraffes); Arizona Trail (coyotes, mountain lions, bobcats, Mexican grey wolves, Sonoran pronghorns, collared peccaries); Tropics Trail (Asian elephants, Komodo dragons, jaguars, Sumatran tigers, orangutans, squirrel monkeys); and the Children’s Trail (emus, red-necked wallabies, siamangs, farm animals, two-toed sloth Fernando).
Africa Trail
The zoo’s most dramatic trail. Animals include: African painted dogs, hamadryas baboons, Grévy’s zebras, mandrills, ostriches, gazelles, southern white rhinoceros, African lions, cheetahs, and giraffes. Giraffe feeding encounters and camel rides are available here for an additional fee.
Arizona Trail
Dedicated to Arizona’s native Sonoran Desert wildlife — one of the most biodiverse deserts in the world. Species include: coyotes, collared peccaries, mountain lions, bobcats, turkey vultures, Sonoran pronghorns, and Mexican grey wolves. An educational and regionally unique trail rarely matched at other US zoos.
Tropics Trail
Split into two sections. The inner Tropical Flights trail houses aviary birds, Bornean orangutans, and the famous Monkey Village with free-ranging squirrel monkeys. The outer Land of the Dragons trail features Komodo dragons, Asian elephants, jaguars, iguanas, giant anteaters, and Sumatran tigers in “Isle of the Tiger.” Tropical birds are visible throughout both sections.
Children’s Trail (Nina Mason Pulliam)
A dedicated family zone with emus, red-necked wallabies, gaboon vipers, siamangs, and tamarins. Further along: Harmony Farm with cows, chickens, horses, turkeys, sheep, and goats in a petting zoo setting. And Fernando — a two-toed sloth who is one of the zoo’s most photographed residents.
Activities & Experiences
- Keeper Chats: Keeper talks run throughout the day daily on all four trails. Check the zoo’s website or app for current schedules, which change seasonally.
- Giraffe Encounter: Children and adults hand-feed giraffes on the Africa Trail — one of the most popular paid activities. Book at the giraffe exhibit on arrival.
- Stingray Bay: US$5 per person. Hand-feed and touch cownose stingrays in a shallow-water pool. A visitor favourite — highly recommended for children.
- Camel Rides: Traditional camel rides available on the Africa Trail for an additional fee.
- Monkey Village: Walk among free-ranging squirrel monkeys on the Tropics Trail. An immersive encounter requiring no booking or extra fee.
- Harmony Farm: Meet farm animals (cows, chickens, horses, turkeys, sheep, goats) and learn about farm life — included with admission.
- ScooterPals, Safari Cruiser, Wild Walks: Additional touring modes through the zoo — check the Phoenix Zoo website for current availability and pricing.
- Endangered Species Carousel: Themed carousel with endangered species mounts — a fun and educational activity for children.
Dinosaurs in the Desert
A permanent exhibit featuring life-sized animatronic dinosaurs including Tyrannosaurus rex, Titanoboa, Megalania, and Pachycephalosaurus throughout the zoo’s trails. Included with all tickets. The exhibit connects prehistoric wildlife conservation with modern zoological conservation in an engaging, dramatic format.
Art on the Wild Side
A conservation and environmental awareness programme using art as its medium. The old Activity Centre has been transformed into two galleries: the Savanna Gallery (inside the air-conditioned Savanna Grill) and the Wild Side Gallery (near the entrance turnstiles). Works focus on wildlife themes and conservation messaging. Included with admission.
Restaurants at Phoenix Zoo
| Café/Restaurant | Food Options | Location |
| Crossroads Cafe | Burritos, quesadillas, salads | Adjacent to Camel Rides |
| Farm Café | Hot dogs, hand-scooped ice cream | Harmony Farm |
| Jungle Java | Coffee, smoothies, burritos, bakery | Libations area |
| Kettle Korner | Kettle corn, churros | Plaza |
| Keg Corner | Craft beer | Plaza |
| Lakeside Lounge | Craft beers and wine | Lemur Lane |
| Savanna Grill | Burgers, hot dogs, chicken, kids’ meals | Plaza |
| Dino Bites | Hot dogs, frozen treats | Africa Trail |
Outside food and personal coolers are permitted at Phoenix Zoo. Multiple picnic areas are available throughout the grounds — bring your own food to save significantly on costs.
Getting There
Phoenix Zoo is in Papago Park at 455 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008 — approximately 1 mile from Phoenix Municipal Stadium. By bus: Phoenix Zoo bus stop is 3 minutes’ walk from the main entrance. By car: follow Google Maps; several paid car parks surround the zoo. The zoo is easily accessible by car from the I-10 and SR-202 freeway network. From downtown Phoenix: approximately 10–15 minutes by car.
Address: 455 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008
- By bus: Phoenix Zoo bus stop is 3 minutes’ walk from the main entrance. Check Valley Metro routes for current service.
- By car: Multiple parking lots around the zoo. Follow Google Maps. From downtown Phoenix: approximately 10–15 minutes.
- By rideshare: A practical option given the zoo’s Papago Park location.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are Phoenix Zoo tickets in 2026?
Online: US$37.95 per adult (14+) and US$27.95 per child (3–13). Gate: US$39.95 and US$29.95. Children under 2 are free. EBT/SNAP cardholders with a valid Arizona card pay US$10 on Tuesdays and Sundays only. Tickets are valid for one year from purchase.
What are Phoenix Zoo’s opening hours?
Standard hours (January–April, October–December): 9:00–17:00. Summer hours (May–September): 7:00–13:00. Closed Christmas Day. ZooLights runs 17:30–22:30 late November through mid-January.
Why does Phoenix Zoo open at 7am in summer?
Arizona summers are extreme — temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F) by midday. The zoo shifts to 7:00–13:00 hours in May through September to protect both visitors and animals from peak heat. If visiting in summer, arrive at 7:00 for the best animal activity and manageable temperatures.
Can I bring my own food to Phoenix Zoo?
Yes — outside food is permitted at Phoenix Zoo. The zoo has several designated picnic areas throughout the grounds. Personal coolers and ice chests are also allowed. This is one of few major US zoos that welcomes outside food.
What is the Phoenix ZooLights event?
ZooLights runs late November through mid-January, from 17:30 to 22:30 nightly. Millions of LED lights and animal-shaped lanterns illuminate the zoo, with seasonal entertainment including Santa, a wildlife lantern walk on Africa Trail, holiday music, and the “Dinosaurs in the Desert” exhibit. A separate ticket is required; it is one of the most popular holiday light events in the American Southwest.
Is the Stingray Bay worth it?
Yes — Stingray Bay (US$5/person) is consistently one of Phoenix Zoo’s most highly rated paid add-ons. You can touch and feed cownose stingrays in a shallow-water pool. Particularly popular with children; located right at the zoo entrance so it is easy to do first or last.
