Great zoo in a compact area that makes for a perfe...

Great zoo in a compact area that makes for a perfect trip for children who don't have the stamina or attention span for larger zoos. They may not have larger zoo blockbusters like elephants and giraffes, but they have plenty to keep you entertained for several hours. With a 3 year old who rode the carousel, ate lunch, went through the aviary, saw all the exhibits, and rode the slide 3 times, we made it through in about 3 hours. It's amazing how they are able to fit as many exhibits as they have in such a relatively small walking space, without having smaller enclosures. Unlike other zoos, you aren't constantly walking between exhibits, you always seem to have one on one side or the other. This helps eliminate the in between enclosure entertaining you normally need to do.

The wolf, bear, and multiple large cat habitats were particularly nice, while the petting zoo and aviary impressed our small guest. I also really likied the prairie dog exhibit where they have domed tunnels under the exhibit where you can view the animals up close.

After you are in, with a moderately priced entrance fee ($27 for 2 adults and one child), they don't continue to nickel and dime you like other zoos. The aviary and petting zoos are free (though you can buy some food for $2). The butterfly tunnel is a mere $2 as well as the carousel.

Food was of course expensive as it is in any closed economy entertainment facility. They are very accommodating with you bringing your own food for a picnic though and have tables all over the place.

This is a fantastic zoo for younger children (though it seems everyone in the tri-state area has discovered this, so expect large family crowds) due to the density of attractions and easy walking footprint.