Welcome to the Lincoln Children's Zoo in Lincoln, Nebraska, a privately funded, 10-acre sanctuary designed specifically for kids to enjoy interactive, up-close encounters with wildlife. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, this open year-round attraction is the largest attended zoo per acre in the United States, drawing nearly 200,000 visitors annually. You will discover over 400 animals across the grounds, including more than 40 endangered species such as Sumatran tigers, Matschie's tree-kangaroos, and red pandas.
During your visit, explore immersive areas like Tiger Forest, Laura's Butterfly Pavilion, and the Red Panda Conservation Center. Head over to see Humboldt penguins, giant anteaters, cheetahs, and giraffes, or let children enjoy interactive spaces like the Secret Jungle and Ellie the Elephant, a 25-foot-tall play structure. You can feed camels at Dromedary Dock, observe insects and reptiles at The Hive, or meet small creatures at Critter Outpost.
Be sure to check out the daily animal interactions at the Wild Safari Theater or the Animal Encounter Stage. Whether riding the historic ZO&O Railroad train or learning about wildlife conservation, your family will experience memorable, hands-on discoveries around every turn.
What to see at Lincoln Children's Zoo
- Take a ride on the zoo's historic ZO&O Railroad train
- Feed camels directly at the Dromedary Dock feeding station
- See endangered wildlife including Sumatran tigers and red pandas
- Let kids play on Ellie the Elephant, a 25-foot-tall play structure
- Experience up-close animal presentations at the Wild Safari Theater
Visiting tips
Plan your trip around Wild Wednesdays to enjoy special themed activities and live animal demonstrations.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Year-round
How to get there & what’s nearby
Lincoln Children's Zoo is easy to reach on Lincoln’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Sheldon Museum of Art. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Lincoln travel guide.
See the full Lincoln travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.