Located within White River State Park, the Indianapolis Zoo is a cageless zoo that exhibits exotic animals in five different living habitats. Its design is based on the bioclimatic concept.
The zoo is a global leader in animal conservation efforts and research. Its conservation programs include participation in Species Survival Plans and a partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature. See our home page.
Biomes
The 64-acre Indianapolis Zoo at White River State Park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The zoo exhibits exotic animals in five different living habitats.
The zoo is organized around biomes, which are climatically and geographically defined areas of similar conditions. Animals from different parts of the world are clustered together in each biome, allowing them to share their natural habitat with other species.
The zoo’s Oceans Biome features an underwater dolphin viewing dome, a dogshark touch pool and three species of penguins. The Forests Biome is home to Amur tigers, gibbons and ring-tailed lemurs. The Plains Biome showcases African lions, elephants and giraffes.
Animals
The Indianapolis Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals and 16,000 plant specimens. This 64-acre zoo and aquarium is the only attraction in Indiana triple-accredited as a zoo, aquarium and botanical garden.
The zoo is dedicated to animal conservation and research. It participates in the Species Survival Plan and is involved with three conservation foundations.
In addition to showcasing the diversity of animal species, the zoo also helps educate people about the animals and their habitats. This includes a reading program for children called Read the Zoo.
The zoo is known for its innovative ideas for community outreach. It has programs that take zoo creatures into schools in the Indianapolis area. In addition, the zoo offers special group events and programs that allow guests to interact with the animals in a fun and exciting way. Visit another area in town here.
Plants
The Indianapolis Zoo’s mission is to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. A critical component of this mission is to promote sustainability, which the Zoo tackles on multiple fronts, including initiating and maintaining green practices and encouraging others to adopt a “greener” way of life through special programs and exhibit features that help set a good example for sustaining a healthy environment in Indianapolis and beyond.
The zoo also continues its tradition of connecting animals, plants and people at White River Gardens, an 3.3-acre landmark botanical attraction that features the best of gardening ideas, plant information and inspirational design. It is a must-see Indianapolis attraction for visitors seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Attractions
In addition to a wide variety of animals, the Indianapolis Zoo has a number of attractions. You can go on a roller coaster, or see orangutans up close.
For families, a visit to the zoo also includes a trip to White River Gardens, which has hundreds of plant species in its 3.3-acre botanical garden. You’ll learn a lot about pollinators and flowers and have a great time!
The zoo is accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA) as a zoo, an aquarium, and a botanic garden. This means that the zoo works to protect and educate the public about the natural world and helps make it a better place for everyone.
Activities
In addition to exploring the animal world, guests can participate in special zoo experiences that add extra value to their visit. Examples of these include a Dolphin In-Water Adventure and Animal Art Adventures.
In the zoo’s five biomes, Deserts, Oceans, Forests and Flights of Fancy, visitors can connect with animals and plants from all over the world. African lions, elephants, giraffes, rhinos and zebras live in the Plains Biome while cownose rays and coral reef fish swim in the Oceans.
The Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center houses one of the largest orangutan groups in any American zoo. Located toward the coaster and skyline, this attraction offers a unique opportunity to learn more about these apes and their habitats. Check our next area of interest here.
Driving directions from Indy Roof Rangers to Indianapolis Zoo
Driving directions from Indianapolis Zoo to Indiana State Museum