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Featuring the Nationally Ranked St. Louis Zoo

Looking for an unforgettable adventure during your trip to St. Louis? Look no further than the St. Louis Zoo. This nationally ranked treasure provides exceptional exhibits and is free to enter. Renowned for its diverse exhibits and dedication to wildlife conservation, the St. Louis Zoo offers an immersive experience where visitors can explore habitats from around the world.

History and Background of the St. Louis Zoo

The St. Louis Zoo began in 1910 with the formation of the St. Louis Zoological Society. St. Louis citizens wanted to create a world-class zoo open to the public. Lehmann House’s original owner, Frederick W. Lehmann, was one of the essential figures who helped push legislation that provided the Zoo would be free to the public, a unique feature of this world-class zoo.

Over the years, the St. Louis Zoo has developed its original 77 acres in Forest Park to become one of the most popular in the nation. It became the first zoo in the world to have an exhibit specially designed for the elephant Miss Jim, which set the standard for future exhibits focused on animal welfare worldwide, in addition to other conservation efforts. Today, the Zoo is home to over 18,000 animals representing 700 species, making it a leader in animal care and education.

Throughout its history, the St. Louis Zoo has remained committed to providing visitors with an educational and enjoyable experience while promoting wildlife conservation.

Exhibits and Attractions

The St. Louis Zoo offers a variety of exhibits and attractions that highlight the incredible diversity of animal life and ecosystems around the world. Each area is designed to educate and inspire visitors about the wider world around us and the importance of taking care of the environment to preserve the natural world.

Essential Exhibits to Visit Include the Following:

River’s Edge: Explore habitats from Africa, South America, and Asia, featuring large animals like hippos, elephants, and Andean bears.
Historic Hill: Visit the Zoo’s oldest structures and see primates, reptiles, and birds in restored habitats that have existed for over 100 years.
The Wild: In the wild you’ll find the famous penguins and puffins living among polar bears and staying cool on the hottest days.
Red Rocks: Take a trip to Africa and see some of the world’s largest predators casually prowling their habitats.
Lakeside Crossing: Take a break and enjoy the Sea Lion shows or grab a bite to eat at one of the many vendors in this centrally located hub.
Discovery Corner: If you have kids be sure to check out this interactive area where kids can play games, interact with smaller animals, and learn about animal care practices. It begins when you first enter the Zoo and includes the Insectarium where you can view hundreds of different bug species.

St. Louis Zoo Visitor Information

If you’re planning a trip to the St. Louis Zoo, here’s all you need to know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

Hours: The Zoo is typically open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with extended hours during seasonal events.
During summer, the zoo is open until 6:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays
Location: The Zoo is located at 1 Government Drive St. Louis, MO 63110, in Forest Park.
Admission: General admission is free for all ages; although some attractions may require an additional fee.
Accessibility: The Zoo is fully accessible with wheelchair rentals, accessible restrooms, and designated handicapped parking spaces.
Dining: The Zoo has a variety of dining options including kids’ and adults’ menus.

Visitor Tips: Much of the zoo is outdoors so it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen during your visit.

Plan Your Stay At Lehmann House During Your Next Trip to the St. Louis Zoo

With its rich history, diverse exhibits, and commitment to conservation, it’s no wonder the St. Louis Zoo is nationally ranked and beloved by millions. Whether you’re exploring the River's Edge, Historic Hill, or Discovery Corner, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and learn.

When you’re planning a visit to the St. Louis Zoo, be sure to stay at Lehmann House Bed and Breakfast. We offer historic charm and modern comforts to ensure you have the best experience in your home away from home. Accommodations at Lehmann House are located less than ten minutes from the St. Louis Zoo and St. Louis’ other major attractions at Forest Park, so you’ll be ideally located during your stay.