Nebraska’s famous Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium was recently named Trip Advisor’s “#1 Zoo in the World” for the second year in a row! I full-heartedly believe they deserve this recognition because this zoo has so many amazing elements, and it just keeps getting better!
I have had a membership to the zoo with my boyfriend for the past two years, and we have watched the zoo change and grow into a themed attraction for all of the guests and a more habitat-like environment for all of its animals. If you haven’t visited the zoo recently, here are 5 reasons why you should.
1. Newly-opened African Grasslands Exhibit
- This exhibit will make you feel like you have completely left Nebraska as you are surrounded by wildlife from Africa as well as natural plants from different regions.
2. Animal Interactions
- They have recently made in possible to feed lettuce to a giraffe (!!!) at a station where you can be eye-level and face-to-face with the beautiful creatures! On top of that, they have petting zoos, and a separate area where you can hang out and hug goats (it’s really therapeutic).
Enhanced Food Options
- The zoo has recently opened a bunch of new places to eat and get snacks. One of these includes a more sit-down restaurant called the Tusker Grill where you can try different dishes from African cultures. I am really excited to try it!
Balance of Indoor and Outdoor Exhibits
- Henry Doorly has really created a balance between amazing exhibits both indoors and outdoors. This means that whatever the weather is outside, you will be able to get your money’s worth by seeing things such as the detailed Lied Jungle, the gigantic Desert Dome (which includes a basement swamp area), and the magical Scott Aquarium.
Exciting Expansions Still to Come
- The zoo has created a master plan that entails new and exciting exhibits that are currently in the works such as an Asian Highlands, an Equatorial Africa, and a new (much larger) polar bear exhibit. This plan was first put into action in 2010 and is continuing to come to life year-by-year. You can view the plan here: https://www.speakcdn.com/assets/2140/ohdzmasterplanexecsummary.pdf
Overall, the zoo is one of my absolute favorite places on the planet, and I hope that you get a chance to see it and experience the magic very soon!