Overview

During Thanksgiving break I visited the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, NE, again. The first time was two years ago in summer 2023 during the College World Series. Personally, I loved visiting during the fall season as the weather was perfect. The Omaha Zoo is perfect for everyone in the family. This time I got to take my son for the first time, and I loved seeing everything through his eyes; the penguins, shark tunnel, and always the elephants.  

Getting There

The parking lot options are as big as the zoo. Don’t let not finding a parking spot prevent you from enjoying the zoo. My first time visiting the zoo first thing in the morning was backed up to the parking lot, so get there early to get your spot in line. The second time we showed up later in the afternoon and got our tickets immediately. Let that help you plan your zoo visit and your day. We applied our AZA membership to get 50% off our admission and then we got to enjoy the zoo. You can buy your admission ticket at their ticket kiosk at the entrance.

Noteworthy Animals

Other than the elephants and penguins there were two other animals’ worth noting about. First, their Rhino was entertaining to watch. It was the first time I had seen a Rhino active and not hiding in the water. Second, was their snow leopard in their Asian Highlands. I was surprised to find the snow leopards in the Asia exhibit but come to find out they are native to South Asia including China and India. It’s very rare that I see snow leopards, so when I do I like to enjoy the view. The only other zoo that I have seen snow leopards in is the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, WA.

Experiences

During this visit we didn’t schedule any experiences. Our time was limited, so we just wanted to enjoy the zoo at our own schedule. However, we did go back later in the evening to enjoy Zoolightful Christmas lights and they were fantastic. Of all the zoo lights that I have been to Omaha Zoolightful is the most family and kid friendly experience yet. You can go visit Santa, write Santa letters, rent an igloo with smores and hot chocolate, or just enjoy a nice walk around the zoo enjoying the zoo. I highly recommend getting tickets ahead of time. When we showed up before doors opened, we were surprised that tickets were sold out. We had also just traveled seven hours and were slightly bummed with the possibility of not getting in. We went to Guest Service, and they told us that they would release the next round of tickets in 30 minutes. Here is a valuable lesson, be nice the guest service workers as they may make exceptions. When the time finally came to release the next round of tickets the guest service worker waved me over and I moved to the front of the line. We made it through to the other side and it was wonderful. There is something about seeing the Holidays through your child eyes.

Facilities

Just like any other zoo there are several concessions stands and cafes, but what sets Omaha Zoo apart is that they have an Omaha Steakhouse. While I have yet eaten there I also know no other zoo has their own restaurant. You can usually find a café or concession stand in each exhibit. If you have kids, you would want to make a visit to the splash pad. However, the weather during my visit the splash pad was unavailable. I never leave any zoo without stopping at the gift shop and picking up a T-shirt and zoo mug.

Overall Impression

I love the Omaha Zoo and Zoolightful. I cannot recommend it enough to anyone that wants a new adventure and is looking for a fun family and kid-friendly activity. Please give yourself plenty of time and wear comfortable shoes. There is a lot to see. I’m already looking forward to my next visit again.