Arizona Families: Ten Things Not To Miss at World Wildlife Zoo Phoenix + Discount Tickets!

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We had an absolute blast at the World Wildlife Zoo and Aquarium recently! This zoo has a little bit of everything. From the outside it is hard to imagine how expansive it really is- so big and with so many new rides and attractions. You can spend more than one day but we only had one day and these are the top ten things our family says that you shouldn't miss. Make sure to bring sunscreen, good walking shoes, water (no other food or drinks allowed) and MAP OUT your day - see Big Cats #4.

Photo credit: Arizona Families

#1. Baby Animal Nursery
This tops our list because the baby animals are so cute and you can see so many around the zoo- be sure to look closely. We saw this baby hanging off of her mama. In the Nursery, it is much easier to spot the babies because they are in rooms with large windows and they are ADORABLE.

We have seen all kinds of babies and the jackal cubs were very rambunctious the day we were there. See the above video.

Photo credit Wildlife World Zoo

#2. Wildlife Encounters and Feedings
You may think that there is so much to see (there is) that there isn't enough time for the shows but I would say plan your day around the shows. My kids really enjoyed getting up close and personal with the animal encounter and seeing the penguins get fed! Info HERE

Photo credit: Arizona Families

#3. Skyride
Do not miss this one! Totally worth the cost and the time. This is a relaxing way to see so many of the animal enclosures from above. It is a round trip right back to where you started so you can continue on to whichever end of the park you were headed to.

Photo credit: Arizona Families

#4. Big Cats
The cats are located in different parts of the property and it is worth it to see them all. There are so many different habitats where they walk above you, stare at you and as cats will do ignore you ;) They are all so beautiful and amazing to see- don't miss any of them.

Photo credit: Arizona Families

Photo credit: Wildlife World Zoo

#5. Safari Park
The Safari ride was a blast! Our guide was fun and informative. It sometimes makes you feel like you are in Tanzania or Burundi when the cattle cross or your guide has to run and shut a door to make sure the ostriches don't chase you. The only male ostrich to see is on this ride :) This is also where the cheetahs are - see #4 about not missing any of the feline friends.

Photo credit: Wildlife World Zoo

#6. Adventureland
This section of the park allows for guests to have a bit more adventure themselves with more daring rides (including a small rollercoaster) and zip lines. The bears were also in this area and were so playful and fun to watch. This was definitely a fun experience.

Photo credit: Arizona Families

#7. Carousel
My daughter LOVES carousels and this one has a lot of different options for picking out some of your favorite animals. This is a fun and classic ride not to be missed.

Photo credit: Arizona Families

Photo credi: Wildlife World Zoo

#8. Dragon World
We really enjoyed Dragon World. It is in a shaded semi-enclosed tunnel. This is where the white alligator is. Make sure to walk through this attraction.

Photo credit: Arizona Families

#9. Flume Ride
This is great for the afternoon when it is warmer- it really gets you wet! It rides through the aquarium tunnel for a little bit before you plunge.

Photo credit: Arizona Families

#10. Aquarium
I love seahorses! They are one of my favorite creatures so I always look for them at any aquarium. They are so magical to me. This section of the park is open later, so we planned this for the end of the day. Dillon's Barbecue is located in this area for a dinner option too. The penguin feedings are earlier in the day (check your schedule) because those are really fun as well!

*For families with smaller children don't miss the playground, the train and the boat ride.

What:Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park has Arizona’s largest collection of exotic and endangered animals, with more than 600 separate species, rides, a petting zoo and daily shows!

Where:16501 W. Northern Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 Northwest of Phoenix

When: OPEN 365 days a year, including holidays Zoo Open 9:00am-6pm Aquarium Open 9:00am-9:00pm

Cost:
Daytime Admission to Zoo, Aquarium, & Safari Park

Adult (13+): $37.00 +tax
Child (3 – 12): $16.00 +tax
2 & Under: Free

Special Evening Admission to Aquarium Only (After 5:00 p.m.)

Adult (13+): $16.99 +tax

Child (3 – 12): $8.99 +tax

2 & Under: Free

Discount tickets available CLICK HERE for $7 off!