Memphis Zoo and Aquarium
The Memphis Zoo recently underwent a $25 million renovation that resulted in a new five-acre natural habitat for primates and an extensive big cat area, both of which have helped to propel the zoo to a position among the country's best. The zoo has three zones: the East Zone, home to large mammals such as elephants, giraffes and zebras, and butterfly exhibits; the West Zone, which houses the Aquarium and Herpetarium; and the Central Zone, where many of the zoo's nocturnal animals live.
The entryway to the zoo, a re-created Egyptian-style temple and hieroglyphics, pays homage to the city of Memphis being named after a capital in ancient Egypt. The Memphis Aquarium, one of the zoo's oldest exhibits, features aquatic life from both freshwater and seawater environments.
The zoo offers various spaces for private events. The Memphis Zoo and Aquarium is open daily, March to October, from 9 AM to 6 PM, and daily, November to February, from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $8 for children ages 2-11 and $13 for adults. Group rates are available. For more information: 901-276-9453
