Nitin Janagam
Google
We've visited Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo four times now — in both winter and summer — and each season brings its own charm. It truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best zoos in the country.
Our most recent visit was on a hot summer day (~90°F), and while the experience was still amazing, the heat can take a toll. There's quite a bit of walking involved, so I'd highly recommend starting your day early and covering the outdoor exhibits first. Animals like tigers, lions, and cheetahs tend to retreat into the shade as it gets warmer, which can make them harder to spot. Once the heat picks up, head indoors to enjoy the air-conditioned exhibits like the Lied Jungle, Hubbard Gorilla Valley, Desert Dome, and Scott Aquarium — all of which are fantastic and immersive. Also, suggest booking tickets online in advance to skip the long entry lines.
Winter visits, on the other hand, have their own perks. Tickets are usually half the price, and you might actually catch more of the big cats and other animals being active since the cooler weather keeps them moving. The trade-off is that some exhibits are closed, and animals like giraffes and elephants are indoors instead of in their full habitats.
Regardless of the season, the zoo is impressive in its size, variety, and layout. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed, the animals are well cared for, and there’s something to enjoy for all ages. You can easily spend an entire day here and still feel like you missed a few things — which is probably why we keep coming back!
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning one, Henry Doorly Zoo never disappoints.