With a zoo in nearly every major US city and beyond, it’s difficult to pick the ones worth the trip. After all, you don’t want to trek halfway across the country, to pay to see animals you can find in your own backyard.

So to make things a little easier, we’ve hand picked 5 of America’s best zoos guaranteed to drive you wild:

5. Brookefield Zoo: Chicago, Illinois

Ever woken up from a nightmare in which a ferocious lion had escaped from his cage, teeth baring, hair raised, ready to pounce?  At the Brookfield Zoo, there’s a good chance you might.

As one of the nation’s only barless Zoos, you’ll be getting up close and personal with the entire animal kingdom. Don’t let the absence of bars deter you from a visit though. The animals are kept in safely thanks to a network of moats and natural barriers surrounding the sprawling 216 acre property.

4. Philadelphia Zoo: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

As the oldest (and one of the best) zoos in the United States,  this one is definitely one worth pouncing on.

A must see in the park is the “Big Cat Falls” exhibit.  No, you won’t get to see big cats literally falling down (as hilarious as that may be), but you will be able to watch these feisty felines frolic, fight and claw their way into your hearts.

It’s simply a purr-fect way to spend an afternoon with family or with friends.

3. Columbus Zoo And Acquirium: Columbus, Ohio

Grizzlies, Koalas, Lions, Penguins, Elephants and Cougars; at the Columbus Zoo, you’ll find animals from just about every continent. Hey, who’d have thought that Ohio was such a major international destination?

Animals aside, the Columbus Zoo boasts an amusement park, golf resort, and even an a water park. Just don’t try getting into a water fight with an elephant,  they’ll  beat you every time.

2. Cincinatti Zoo: Cincinnati, Ohio

Some say things lose their beauty and appeal as they age: this is not the case for the Cincinnati Zoo!

Even at well over 100 years old, the Cincinnati Zoo is still  considered “The Sexiest Zoo in America”. No, it’s not because of the lush landscapes or beautiful animals residing here, it because of the sheer amount of lovemaking  that goes on (between the animals of course).

Hey, if you’ve ever wanted to know more about the mating rituals of elephants, this just may be your best chance to get a firsthand perspective. Don’t forget your camera.

1. Phoenix Zoo: Phoenix Arizona

Make your way through the gates of the Phoenix Zoo, and you’ll meet a world-wide acclaimed artist, famous or their brilliant artistic masterpieces, highly sought after by art collectors from across the world: Ruby the Asian elephant. Yes, that’s right. A painting elephant!

Don’t be fooled though, Ruby isn’t the only star attraction here. You can have a tall time with the girrafes, go ape for the gorillas or even hibernate with the bears (on second thought don’t).

- Chrissy

There you have our picks for America’s 5 Best Zoo’s. Got a favourite U.S Zoo of your own? Let us know about it.

Attractions, Fun