Our visit to the Erie Zoo was one of the highlights of our Erie adventure. Nestled in the heart of the city, the Erie Zoo is a charming and manageable zoo, perfect for families with kids of all ages. Here's what we loved about our visit and some handy tips for moms before you go.
My family and I were graciously hosted by Visit Erie, but all opinions expressed are my own.
 First timers at the Erie Zoo! |
What We Loved About the Erie Zoo:
- Fan Favorite Animal Collection: The Erie Zoo is home to nearly 400 animals, ranging from majestic big cats to playful primates. Each exhibit is thoughtfully designed to provide an up-close and educational experience. My kids were particularly thrilled by the meerkats and the friendly chimpanzees.
- Beautiful Gardens: Besides the animals, the zoo features 11 stunning gardens. These beautifully landscaped areas offer a peaceful setting and a great opportunity for family photos. The vibrant flowers and lush greenery add an extra layer of enjoyment to the zoo visit.
- Family-Friendly Size: One of the best aspects of the Erie Zoo is its size. It’s large enough to offer a wide variety of exhibits and attractions but small enough to be easily walkable. We found it perfect for our family (well, the kids mostly since Sam and I took advantage of the Scooter Pals). It took us about two hours to comfortably explore the entire zoo.
- Interactive and Educational: The zoo offers numerous educational opportunities for children. Interactive exhibits and informative signs help kids learn about different species and their habitats. The zookeepers were friendly and happy to answer questions, making the visit both fun and educational.
- Fun Extras: From the Wildlife Carousel to the Zoo Train Ride, the Erie Zoo offers extra fun for little ones. These attractions add an extra layer of excitement and create lasting memories for the kids.
 Lucy enjoying one of the 11 gardens at the Erie Zoo. |
 Sammy J. pretending to be a statue in the garden at the Erie Zoo. |
Tips for Moms Before You Go:
- Plan Your Visit: The Erie Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last admission at 4:15 p.m. Plan to arrive early to make the most of your day in Erie, whether it's at the zoo or another nearby attraction (if you need some ideas, check out our weekend trip itinerary here). A comfortable walk through the zoo takes about two hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy all the exhibits.
- Pack Essentials: Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, especially if you’re visiting on a sunny day. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as there’s a lot to explore. Don’t forget a camera or smartphone for capturing those memorable moments.
- Snacks and Water: While the zoo has food and drink options, bringing your own snacks and water can save time and money. While I found no clear food policy on the zoo's website, there was no objection to the water bottle my family brought in. Erie Zoo members save 10% on all concessions.
- Strollers and Wagons: If you have young children, consider bringing a stroller or wagon. The zoo is stroller-friendly and having one can make your visit more comfortable, especially for little ones who might tire easily. Didn't pack one? That's ok. You can rent a single stroller from the gift shop for $7 or $8 for a double.
- Check the Schedule: The zoo often has special events and animal feedings. Check the schedule ahead of time so you can plan your visit around these exciting activities.
- Restrooms and Changing Stations: The zoo has convenient restroom facilities and baby changing stations, making it easier for moms with young children.
Our visit to the Erie Zoo was a delightful experience filled with learning, fun, and family bonding. It’s a must-visit destination for any family traveling to Erie, offering a perfect mix of animal encounters and beautiful scenery. Whether you're a local or visiting from Pittsburgh, the Erie Zoo is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
 I spy with my little eye, a monkey who has escaped from the zoo! |
Who says the zoo is just for kids?! Sam and I had so much fun at the Erie Zoo with our Scooter Pals, Reya the Giraffe and Nyx the Leopard. While the Scooter Pals at the Erie Zoo don’t really zoom THIS fast, they were surprisingly quick and sharp. Riding around on our furry friends gave us the perfect break to our tired feet after a long day and put smiles on everyone’s faces as we rode by. Riders ages 14 and up can rent a scooter for $5 plus 35 cents per minute by getting a key over at the gift shop and you can fit two riders per scooter. I never want to go to the zoo any other way!
