S Martin

Review of The Phoenix Zoo

I've been to a lot of zoos because we've moved all...

I've been to a lot of zoos because we've moved all over the country - This one is probably my least favorite. First, the price - $80 for our family of four?! Crazy. But the biggest problem with this zoo is the layout. The exhibits are spaced so far apart. And because it's Phoenix, it's bound to be hot and the scenery isn't exactly lush and pretty. Lots of hot, empty desert walking. Also, the layout is confusing- so many forks in the paths without signage, you end up backtracking and frustrated. We've been twice in the last few years (thought we'd give it a second chance recently). Both of our visits were on Saturdays and 3-4 of the larger exhibits didn't have animals in them because they were cleaning it. So you walk and walk and then there's no animal! Why would they do this cleaning at their busiest time?! The best part about this zoo is the splash pad - very fun for the kids. If you're in southern AZ, and want to go to the zoo - we suggest the Reid Park Zoo in Tucson. It's beautifully (and intelligently) designed and has a huge park and an aquatic center next to it.