Is There a Zoo in Virginia?

If you're wondering whether Virginia has any zoos worth visiting, the answer is an enthusiastic yes! From well-established urban zoos to drive-thru safari parks and immersive wildlife museums, Virginia offers a diverse range of animal attractions. In this guide, we'll explore the most notable options—where they are, what you'll pay, parking availability, and the standout highlights to help you plan your perfect zoo adventure.



1. Virginia Zoo (Norfolk)

Where Is It?

Also known as the Virginia Zoological Park, this is the most prominent zoo in the state. Nestled in Lafayette Park in Norfolk, it spans approximately 53 acres and first opened its doors in 1900. It earned AZA accreditation in 1987, underscoring its commitment to quality care and conservation.

Admission Fees

* Adults (12+): \$19
* Seniors (62+): \$17
* Children (2–11): \$16
* Children under 2: Free
Discounts are available for military, educators, and Norfolk residents. The zoo also offers special **Norfolk POWERUP!** admission for just \$6 with qualifying proof like Medicaid.
Parking

Parking is free, with over 700 spaces available. There’s also designated bus parking for groups.

Major Highlights

* Houses 700+ animals across over 150 species, including global exhibits from continents like Asia, Africa, and Australia.
Okavango Delta Exhibit features animals like giraffes, lions, cheetahs, meerkats, rhinos, and zebras.
Trail of the Tiger (opened in 2011) showcases Malayan tigers, orangutans, red pandas, and more in immersive habitats.
Other zones include North America exhibit with bison, prairie dogs, and a rescued bald eagle.
Offers an electric Norfolk Southern Express train, diverse plant gardens, and educational “Animal Wellness Campus” experiences.
Member programs, keeper talks, and interactive presentations give added value and engagement.


2. Metro Richmond Zoo (Moseley, near Richmond)

Where Is It?

Located about 20 miles southwest of Richmond in Chesterfield County, the Metro Richmond Zoo spans roughly 70 acres. It opened in 1995 and is accredited by the Zoological Association of America (ZAA).

Admission Fees

While exact current fees weren’t specified, it's a privately owned zoo typically priced competitively. It's best to check their website for updated rates.

Parking

Details weren’t specified in the sourced information, but parking is generally available on-site for guests.

Major Highlights

Home to roughly 2,000 animals across 190+ species, including cheetahs, snow leopards, giraffes, rhinos, and Grant’s zebras.
Known for close-up experiences, including train rides and giraffe feedings. A popular zoo for immersive wildlife encounters.
Active in wildlife conservation programs, especially for endangered species like African penguins and cheetahs.


3. Other Wildlife Attractions in Virginia

Virginia also features a variety of other animal-focused venues beyond traditional zoos:

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center (Virginia Beach): Home to over 10,000 animals and more than 300 species. Highlights include marine exhibits and boat trips to see dolphins and whales.

Virginia Safari Park (Natural Bridge): A drive-thru zoo where visitors can feed free-roaming animals like camels, zebras, bison, and more—all from the safety of their car.
Fort Chiswell Animal Park (Wytheville): A 45-acre park showcasing animals from six continents, with interactive Safari Bus tours.
Virginia Living Museum (Newport News): Focuses on local ecosystems of Virginia, including swamps, mountains, and coastal habitats, with live animal exhibits and nature boards.
Mill Mountain Zoo (Roanoke): Located within a city park, this zoo features snow leopards, red pandas, and wolves in a charming setting overlooking the city.


Comparison at a Glance

| Attraction | Location | Admission & Parking | Major Highlights |
| ----------------------------- | ----------------------- | ------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| Virginia Zoo (Norfolk) | Norfolk | \$16–19 for most; free parking | 700+ animals, Okavango Delta, Trail of the Tiger exhibit, train ride, educational programs |
| Metro Richmond Zoo | Moseley (Richmond area) | Varied; check website | 2,000 animals, giraffe feedings, conservation programs |
| Virginia Aquarium | Virginia Beach | Aquarium, marine science center | Marine animals, dolphin/whale boat trips, hands-on learning |
| Virginia Safari Park | Natural Bridge | Drive-thru safari | Interact with animals from your car |
| Fort Chiswell Animal Park | Wytheville | Zoo & Safari bus rides | Animals from six continents, guided bus tours |
| Virginia Living Museum | Newport News | Natural heritage exhibits | Ecosystems of Virginia, live native animals |
| Mill Mountain Zoo | Roanoke | Small city zoo | Snow leopards, red pandas, wolves with scenic views |



Final Thoughts

So, is there a zoo in Virginia? Absolutely—and there’s something for every kind of wildlife enthusiast:

Urban explorers and families will love the immersive and educational experience at the Virginia Zoo.
If you're seeking up-close interactions, the Metro Richmond Zoo delivers with feeding experiences and conservation highlights.
Nature lovers can venture farther to enjoy drive-thru safaris, aquariums, and ecosystem centers like those in Natural Bridge or Newport News.

Whether you're planning a family outing, a day trip, or a deeper exploration of Virginia’s wildlife offerings, the Commonwealth offers a rich array of animal attractions to make your journey wild and wonderful.