Covering 10 states, including diverse natural landscapes such as the Appalachian Mountains and portions of the Mississippi River Basin, the southeast region of the United States includes more than 325 animal species. Some of the region’s largest zoos showcase these animals alongside a collection of critters from around the globe. Thanks to typically mild temperatures in the region, the vast majority of zoos in the area are open year-round, with the exception of major holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving.


Part of Walt Disney World Resort, Disney’s Animal Kingdom ( in Orlando is a 500-acre zoo with more than 1,700 animals. The theme park offers the Wild Africa Trek with a series of VIP adventures, like zip lining over hippos and a three-hour guided safari, all while accompanied by a Disney photographer who documents your journey. Attractions open to the public include a high-speed roller coaster, animal-themed stage shows and a roaring rapids ride. Based in West Palm Beach, Lion Country Safari ( is a drive-through safari park with more than 900 animals, including zebras, giraffes and rhinos. You can drive your own car or rent a van from the park, available on a first-come, first-served basis. The zoo also includes a walk-through amusement park with six rides, including a Ferris wheel, carousel and paddle boats, and a 4,000-square-foot sprayground with 23 interactive contraptions.

Tennessee and Georgia

Opened in 1906, the Memphis Zoo ( is spread across 70 acres and home to 3,500-plus animals. Various themed exhibits include primate canyon, animals of the night, cat country, penguin rock and tropical birdhouse. The zoo also has daily stage shows, feedings and zookeeper talks highlighting animals like sea lions, pandas and grizzlies. Special events throughout the year include a Christmas lights show and an outdoor ice skating rink. Inside the city’s sprawling Grant Park and established in 1889, Zoo Atlanta ( is a 40-acre facility with close to 1,000 animals. Exhibits showcase critters from around the globes, such as kangaroos, tigers, American alligators and giant pandas. Special programs include safari day camps for kids from kindergarten through eighth grade, overnight sleepovers and behind-the-scenes tours.

The Carolinas

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden ( is a 170-acre venue in Columbia, South Carolina. Exhibits include a 20,000-square-foot reptile aquarium, lemur island and two-acre African savannah with giraffes, zebras and ostrich. The attached botanical gardens include rose, succulent and fruit and berry gardens. In January and February, the zoo offers free admission to Lexington and Richland county residents on Fridays, as of publication. North Carolina Zoo ( is in Asheboro, at the base of the Uwharrie Mountains. The 500-acre zoo hosts 1,600 animals, including African bush hogs, American black bears, red wolves and chimpanzees. The zoo also has a carousel, 4D theater and playground. Seasonal events include Halloween, Easter and Earth Day celebrations.

Louisiana and Mississippi

In New Orleans’ Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo ( is home to jaguars, primates, rhinos and sea lions. Additional attractions include a train ride, ape-feeding sessions and a children’s zoo. The nearby aquarium, IMAX theater and Dinosaur Adventure, complete with replica dinosaurs and fossil excavation sites, require a separate admission. Covering 110 acres, Jackson Zoo ( is in Jackson, Mississippi’s Livingston Park. The zoo has close to 800 animals, including 12 endangered species. Animals on hand include zebras, tigers, orangutans and red pandas. The zoo also includes a carousel and train ride for kids. You can arrange to have a birthday party at the zoo, with possible perks including food, drinks, admission and rides.

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