The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo is divided into four distinct areas. The Central Zoo, home to such animals as California sea lions, barn owls, African penguins and Ring-tailed lemurs. The Australian Adventure houses such animals as black swans, Eastern grey kangaroos, dingoes and the rainbow lorikeets. Along the African Journey you can see lions, leopards, zebras and hyenas. Finally, the Indonesian Rain Forest features Javan gibbons, Sumatran tigers and Sumatran orangutans in unique habitats created especially for these and other creatures in this section. In total, more than 1,000 animals reside at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo.
Best and Worst Times to Visit the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
Consider visiting the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo first thing in the morning. Cooler early morning hours are the best time to see animals who tend to be more active before the heat of the day settles in. Many animals are frequently less active during the hottest times of the day.
Must Do Activities the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
Don't miss a variety of rides at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo. Featured throughout the zoo are several entertaining rides that lend a new perspective to your experience.
Sky Safari: Get a birds-eye view of lions, zebras and other animals in the African Journey exhibit. The ski-lift style chairs skim the tree-tops while providing a view of distant wildlife.
Endangered Species Carousel: Featuring endangered animals, the colorful carousel is fun. Seating is available for non-riders who are waiting for the riders to exit the Carousel.
River Ride: Cruise the Australian Adventure in dugout canoes. See kangaroos and dingoes.
The handicap accessible Fort Wayne Children's Zoo has wagons, single and double strollers available for rent during your visit. Wheelchairs are free but require a deposit. These items are just past the entrance and are easily accessible for those with mobility issues. Level ground in most areas or gentle slopes with handrails also make navigating the zoo easy and safe.
Admission the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
Admission prices to the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo include: Adults, Children ages 2-18 and Seniors over age 60. All areas of the zoo are available for one admission fee.
Ask about school group admission prices.
Zoo members: Free
Best value: A Fort Wayne Children's Zoo membership. Choose a package that fits your family best.
Bonus: Get discounted admission at more than 140 zoos nationwide with a Fort Wayne Children's Zoo membership.
Get Membership Information at: http://www.kidszoo.org.
Parking at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
Free parking at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo is available in several lots. The lot closest to the entrance can fill up fast on most summer days. Parking in a nearby lot within the park is a good second choice and requires a short walk to the entrance. Parking is also available in at least two other nearby lots.
Public Transportation to the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
Public transportation to the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo via a city bus is limited.
Food at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo offers a variety of sandwiches including burgers, hot dogs and chicken sandwiches with or without fries. Prices range from $6-$8.
A variety of ice cream treats are available. Prices range from $2-$5. Whole pizzas can be ordered for $22 or more. Pizza by the slice is available for around $4. Wraps, salads and fries are also available. Prices range from $3-$6.
Insider Tip
At the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo plan to attend an Animal Enrichment Workshop. The whole family can help make objects that stimulate an animals' interest.
For more information about the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo go to: http://www.kidszoo.org
Or phone 260-427-6800
Author's bio: Lyla Panache has lived in Fort Wayne for more than 30 years. She has written articles for area newspapers and several national magazines.