I consider this my first "real" visit to the zoo: ...

I consider this my first "real" visit to the zoo: took my time wandering around the exhibits and not rushing or trying to see every single animal. I really appreciated the quantity and variety of bird displays. I visited during the Zoo Lights season, so all decorations were up during the day and you could get an idea of what the evening experience might be like.
A section of the zoo is currently under renovation -- but it's for a new exhibit, so hopefully a reason to return in the future! I recommend arriving early, as there was almost no wait to get tickets, and you can wander the zoo without the foot-traffic and strollers that significantly increase during the day (especially weekend, holidays).