Utah's Hogle Zoo

Utah's Hogle Zoo is a popular family-friendly destination located in Salt Lake City, offering an exciting and educational experience for animal lovers of all ages. Spanning over 42 acres, the zoo is home to a diverse range of animals from across the globe, including lions, tigers, elephants, and giraffes. Whether you're interested in learning about endangered species, watching animals in action, or participating in interactive exhibits, Utah's Hogle Zoo provides a fun and immersive experience. With various exhibits, animal encounters, and seasonal events, it’s a great place to explore wildlife and conservation efforts up close.

Why Visit Utah's Hogle Zoo

• Diverse Animal Exhibits: The zoo features a wide range of animal exhibits, including African lions, polar bears, Asian elephants, and a variety of exotic birds. With themed areas like the African Savannah and Rocky Shores, the zoo offers visitors a chance to see animals from around the world in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments.
• Educational Programs: Hogle Zoo provides numerous educational programs for all ages, from animal shows to hands-on learning experiences. Visitors can participate in feeding demonstrations, animal talks, and keeper chats, gaining valuable knowledge about conservation, animal behavior, and wildlife protection.
• Interactive Animal Encounters: The zoo offers unique opportunities for up-close encounters with certain animals. Visitors can engage with some of the zoo’s resident animals through behind-the-scenes tours or special interaction programs, making it a memorable experience for animal enthusiasts.
• Seasonal Events and Attractions: Hogle Zoo hosts a variety of seasonal events throughout the year, including the popular ZooLights holiday event and summer concerts. These events add extra excitement to your visit, offering activities, entertainment, and themed experiences that change with the seasons.
• Focus on Conservation: Hogle Zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation and participates in global programs to protect endangered species. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts and how they can contribute to protecting wildlife for future generations.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Utah’s Hogle Zoo is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and the animals are most active. Spring brings mild temperatures, and many animals are more visible as they are more active after the winter months. Fall offers comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a great time for a leisurely visit. Summer can be hot, so visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid the heat. The zoo also hosts special events during the winter, including the ZooLights festival, which is a fantastic time to visit for those looking for a unique holiday experience.

How to Get There

• By Car: Utah’s Hogle Zoo is located in the eastern part of Salt Lake City, and it is easily accessible by car. The zoo offers ample parking, including a large parking lot near the entrance, so you won’t have trouble finding a spot.
• Public Transportation: The zoo is served by public transportation, with bus routes stopping nearby. The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) provides services that can take you to the zoo from various points in the city.
• By Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft can drop you off directly at the zoo entrance, making it easy for visitors without a car to access the location.

Tips for Visitors

• Check for Special Events: Be sure to check the zoo’s event calendar before your visit. Whether it's seasonal events like ZooLights or educational programs, there’s always something special happening at the zoo.
• Wear Comfortable Footwear: Hogle Zoo is large and features various exhibits spread across its 42 acres. Wear comfortable shoes to explore the zoo and walk between the different animal exhibits.
• Bring Sunscreen and Water: Especially during the summer months, it’s important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to ensure a comfortable experience as you explore the zoo.
• Pack a Picnic: While there are food options available at the zoo, you can also bring your picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic areas. It’s a great way to take a break and recharge during your visit.
• Plan for Animal Encounters: If you’re interested in specific animal encounters or behind-the-scenes tours, check availability and book in advance as these experiences often require reservations.

Utah’s Hogle Zoo is a fantastic destination for families, animal lovers, and anyone looking to learn more about wildlife and conservation efforts. With its diverse exhibits, educational programs, and interactive experiences, the zoo offers a fun and enriching day out. Whether you’re observing majestic animals, learning about conservation, or enjoying special events, a visit to Hogle Zoo is sure to be an unforgettable experience.