If you love wildlife, one of the best zoos in the world is right here in Ohio, according to one report.
In a study of the 25 best zoos worldwide, the top zoos offering educational programs, investing in research projects to help endangered animals, or having animal release programs that assist in reintroduction into the wild are listed.
"The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, the second-oldest zoo in the United States, was founded by the Cincinnati Zoological Society in 1873 and officially opened to visitors in 1875. Today, it remains a favorite recreation spot with over 400 species of animals, from tiny creatures like blue beetles mimicking death to large ones like black rhinos. You can also take a behind-the-scenes tour with elephants, kangaroos, hippos, lions, manatees, penguins, and other animals.".
The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is one of 11 U.S. zoos on this list. Others include the San Diego Zoo, Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington, Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, Bronx Zoo in New York, Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium in Omaha, Alaska Zoo in Anchorage, Houston Zoo, Honolulu Zoo, ZooTampa at Lowry Park in Tampa, St. Louis Zoo, and Audubon Zoo in New Orleans.
When purchased online, general admission to the Cincinnati Zoo costs from $9 to $23 for people aged 13-61 years and from $6 to $17 for children aged 3-12 or seniors aged 62 and older.
Last year, the annual Zoo Blooms flower festival at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden was nominated as one of the best flower festivals in the U.S. by USA Today's 10Best awards.
You can find the full list of the 25 best zoos worldwide compiled by Travel + Leisure magazine here.
