Birmingham Zoo

4.2(9.2K)google

3.5(173)yelp

Adult $19.95·Senior(65+) $16.95·Military $16.95·Child(2-12y) $14.95·Child(under 1) FreeUSD(General admission rates listed; rides like the train, carousel, and animal feedings require separate add-on tickets)

Family

Overview

The Birmingham Zoo is a premier 122-acre zoological park and the top non-profit family attraction in Alabama. As the state's only AZA-accredited facility, it serves as a vital sanctuary for over 550 animals representing 180 species from six continents, including African elephants, red pandas, and endangered Sumatran orangutans. The zoo is globally celebrated for its revolutionary Trails of Africa exhibit, interactive giraffe feedings, and the newly opened Wojciechowski Cougar Crossing habitat. Featuring beloved guest amenities such as the Red Diamond Express Train, the seasonal Dino Safari, and a cutting-edge Wild Explorer Virtual Reality Experience, the Birmingham Zoo masterfully bridges immersive entertainment with world-class wildlife conservation.

Practical Info

2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223, USA

Mon–TueClosed

Wed–Sun9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Best TimeSpring and fall mornings are ideal when temperatures are cooler and animals are most active. During summer, arrive when the zoo opens to avoid the heat.

Getting ThereLocated in Lane Park near the Botanical Gardens, the zoo is best reached by car and offers a large free parking lot.

(205) 879-0409

birminghamzoo.com/

Travel Tips

Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in line at the entrance.
Interactive experiences such as giraffe feedings are usually scheduled at specific times and require an additional fee; check the daily schedule upon arrival.

Reviews

Positive

The Trails of Africa exhibit is exceptionally well designed, with spacious habitats for elephants and giraffes.
Interactive experiences such as giraffe feedings, the Zoo Train, and the carousel make it an outstanding family destination.
The zoo is comfortably sized, with easy walking paths that allow visitors to see everything without feeling exhausted.

Heads up

Some older animal enclosures appear dated and are smaller than modern zoo standards.
During hot summer afternoons, many animals retreat to shaded areas or indoor spaces, reducing viewing opportunities.

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