Dominic Sacchetti

Review of Aramark at the Maryland Zoo

A great place to spend the day. Parking can be a b...

A great place to spend the day. Parking can be a bit challenging during the summer so if possible arrive early, or visit in the winter when it is less busy. To save time buy your tickets online, the line is much shorter. Once in the gate you can ride in the shuttle, or get some exercise and walk about 10 minutes to the main area. Once inside, the zoo is divided into three areas. The African area has chimpanzees, zebras, giraffes, lions, and lemurs, etc. The Maryland area has local wildlife from different regions in the state, and farm animals. The arctic and penguin area has polar bears and African penguins. I highly recommend the penguin encounter. It is a behind the scenes tour of the penguin food prep area, followed by petting penguins. The African penguins walk right up to you and are very friendly, although they do like to nibble shoelaces. Playing with penguins is definitely an experience not to miss. Finally I would suggest wearing sunscreen, taking a water bottle, and bringing some snacks.