Kansas Zoos: Complete Guide

Discover Kansas' exceptional zoos led by Sedgwick County Zoo, the 13th largest in the United States with 3,000+ animals of nearly 400 species across 247 acres. Explore 8 accredited facilities across the state featuring world-class exhibits and conservation programs.

8+

Accredited Zoos

3,000+

Animals (Sedgwick)

400

Species (Sedgwick)

247

Acres

Featured AZA-Accredited Zoo

Sedgwick County Zoo (Wichita) 13th Largest in U.S.

Location: Wichita, Kansas
Website: scz.org
Founded: 1971
Size: 247 acres (115 developed)
Accreditation: AZA-accredited

Major attraction and AZA-accredited wildlife park. Founded 1971 with help of Sedgwick County Zoological Society. Recognized nationally and internationally for conservation program support and successful breeding of rare and endangered species. Housing 3,000+ animals of nearly 400 species, ranks as 13th largest zoo in U.S. in both species count and total animals, 7th largest in total area. Number one outdoor tourist attraction in Kansas.

Not-for-profit organization funded through unique partnership between Sedgwick County government and Sedgwick County Zoological Society, Inc. Participates in AZA Species Survival Plan program.

World-Class Features: Elephants of the Zambezi River Valley is third-largest elephant habitat in country, encompassing 5+ acres outdoor space plus 18,000-square-foot indoor facility. Features world's largest elephant pool holding 550,000 gallons.

Other Kansas AZA-Accredited Zoos

Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center
Website: topekazoo.org
Experience conservation in action. Encounter animals from around the world including elephants, orangutans, hippos, lions, tigers, and bears. Immersive botanical gardens. Innovative approach to welfare, green practices, and citizen science programs.

Other Accredited Kansas Zoos: Tanganyika Wildlife Park (Goddard), Rolling Hills Zoo (Salina), Sunset Zoological Park (Manhattan), David Traylor Zoo (Emporia), Hutchinson Zoo (Hutchinson), Lee Richardson Zoo (Garden City).

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas boasts 8+ accredited and certified zoos across the state, including Sedgwick County Zoo (Wichita), Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center (Topeka), Tanganyika Wildlife Park (Goddard), David Traylor Zoo (Emporia), Hutchinson Zoo (Hutchinson), Lee Richardson Zoo (Garden City), Rolling Hills Zoo (Salina), and Sunset Zoological Park (Manhattan).

Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita is the largest zoo in Kansas and the 13th largest in the United States. With 3,000+ animals representing nearly 400 species across 247 acres (115 developed), it ranks 13th nationally in both species count and total animals, and 7th largest in total area. The zoo is Kansas' number one outdoor tourist attraction.

Sedgwick County Zoo is recognized nationally and internationally for conservation program support and successful breeding of rare and endangered species. The Elephants of the Zambezi River Valley exhibit is the third-largest elephant habitat in the country, spanning 5+ acres outdoor space plus an 18,000-square-foot indoor facility. It features the world's largest elephant pool holding 550,000 gallons.

Yes, Kansas has multiple AZA-accredited institutions. Sedgwick County Zoo is a prominent AZA-accredited member participating in the Species Survival Plan program. All accredited Kansas zoos meet rigorous standards in animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, and education, demonstrating commitment to excellence in zoological operations.

Sedgwick County Zoo participates in the AZA Species Survival Plan program and is recognized internationally for successful breeding of rare and endangered species. Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center focuses on innovative conservation approaches including welfare programs, green practices, and citizen science initiatives. Kansas zoos collectively contribute to global conservation efforts through breeding programs, research, and public education.

Sedgwick County Zoo houses 3,000+ animals representing nearly 400 species with world-class elephant exhibits. Topeka Zoo features elephants, lemurs, African wild dogs, orangutans, tigers, hippos, lions, and bears. Kansas zoos collectively showcase diverse wildlife from around the world in naturalistic habitats designed for both animal welfare and visitor education.

Yes, all Kansas zoos provide excellent family experiences with educational programs and diverse exhibits. Sedgwick County Zoo, as the state's top outdoor tourist attraction, offers extensive exhibits across 115 developed acres. Topeka Zoo combines animal encounters with botanical gardens. Multiple facilities across the state ensure Kansas families have access to quality zoological experiences regardless of location.

Sedgwick County Zoo was founded in 1971 with help from the Sedgwick County Zoological Society. Since its opening, the zoo has grown to become one of the largest zoos in the United States, earning national and international recognition for conservation programs and successful breeding of rare and endangered species. The zoo operates as a not-for-profit organization through a unique partnership between Sedgwick County government and the Sedgwick County Zoological Society, Inc.

Last updated on November 27, 2025