Virginia is a great place to take your kids if you want to visit some zoos and aquariums. There are several great options, and each offers a unique experience for kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a traditional zoo with animals from all over the world, or an aquarium with interactive exhibits and close-up views of marine life, Virginia has something for everyone.
Keep reading for our list of the best zoos and aquariums in the state!
1. Virginia Zoo
The Virginia Zoological Park is a 53-acre zoo in Norfolk, Virginia, United States, close to Lafayette Park. The zoo first opened its doors in 1900, and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums granted it accreditation in 1987.
The Virginia Zoo is a great option for kids of all ages. With over 500 animals, the zoo has something for everyone. The African Savanna exhibit is one of the most popular at the zoo and features lions, giraffes, zebras, and more. The Kidzone exhibit is another popular spot for kids, with interactive games and activities.
2. Virginia Living Museum
The Virginia Living Museum is a natural history museum in Newport News, Virginia. The museum first opened its doors in 1966 and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
The Virginia Living Museum is a great option for kids who are interested in nature and wildlife. With over 50 acres of land, the museum has plenty of space for kids to explore. The museum also has several exhibits, including a hands-on exhibit where kids can touch and hold animals. The museum also offers educational programs and classes for kids of all ages.
3. Luray Zoo – A Rescue Zoo
The Luray Zoo is a rescue zoo located in Luray, Virginia. The zoo first opened its doors in 2012 and is home to over 200 animals.
For kids who are interested in helping animals, the Luray Zoo is a great place to visit. The zoo rescues animals from all over the world such as tigers, lions, bears, and reptiles, and gives them a safe place to live.
The zoo also offers educational programs and classes about animal conservation; as well as opportunities to feed and pet the animals. It also has a playground and picnic area for families to enjoy.
4. Creation Kingdom Zoo
The Creation Kingdom Zoo is a Christian-based zoo located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The zoo opened its doors in 2014 and is home to over 200 animals.
As people say, the Creation Kingdom Zoo is a fantastic educational resource for families interested in learning about God’s creation. The zoo features exhibits with animals from throughout the world, as well as interactive Bible displays. The zoo also hosts educational programs and lectures on topics such as animal husbandry, biology, and other topics.
5. Mill Mountain Zoo
The Mill Mountain Zoo is a small zoo located in Roanoke, Virginia. The zoo opened its doors in 1952 and is home to over 150 animals.
If you’re looking for a more traditional zoo experience, The Mill Mountain Zoo is a great place to take kids. The zoo has rare animals from all over the world, as well as an educational farm where kids can learn about agriculture. The zoo also offers educational programs and classes for kids of all ages.
6. Leesburg Animal Park
The Leesburg Animal Park is a family-run business that first opened its doors in March of 2000. You may meet, pet, and feed the park’s various animal residents. To interact with farm animals such as goats, sheep, and llamas, head to the “Contact Area.”
There are plenty of activities to do at the Leesburg Animal Park suck as take a Wagon Ride, a Pony Ride, or participate in a Live Animal Show. You can also take a leisurely stroll through the Butterfly Garden.
The Leesburg Animal Park is great for kids who want to get up close and personal with animals. With over 100 animals, the park has something for everyone.
7. Infinity Acres Petting Ranch
Infinity Acres Ranch is a fantastic educational animal ranch dedicated to “Kids and Kritters.” The ranch, which opened in 2007, provides unique possibilities for both young and old.
Through tours, demonstrations, exhibits, camps, community outreach, and the Alpaca 4-H club, Infinity Acres Ranch (IAR) has stayed committed to its mission of providing animal education.
With its socially and environmentally uplifting enterprise, Infinity Acres Ranch’s community enrichment initiatives continue to educate, delight, and involve the public. They are USDA licensed breeders and exhibitors, as well as a Virginia Certified Green Attraction.
8. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center has something for everyone. Come see one of the greatest aquariums in the country, with over 800,000 gallons of water.
Explore coastal ecosystems from across the world on an aquatic trip that takes you from the coastline to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. Thousands of creatures representing over 300 species, all eager to amaze and inspire you, are on show in entertaining and instructive exhibitions.
There is also a hands-on stingray touch pool, an outdoor aviary, and a nature trail where you can learn all about the local wildlife. The Aquarium is also home to two IMAX theaters which show educational films throughout the day.
9. Three Lakes Nature Center and Aquarium
In Henrico County’s Three Lakes Park, a new nature center opened in the spring of 2007. The center has displays created by RWD to teach visitors on the many animal and plant species that may be found within the park.
Visitors may engage intimately with the ecosystem they are visiting thanks to a combination of live animals and interactive exhibitions. A rock wall and an aquarium are among the space’s features. Exhibits depict the many systems of air, land, and water, as well as changes from the prehistoric age to the present.
The Three Lakes Nature Center is also home to an aquarium with freshwater fish found in the lakes of Virginia. The aquarium has over 50 different species of fish, many of which are native to Virginia. The nature center also offers educational programs for kids, such as a Junior Ranger program.
There are many great zoos and aquariums in Virginia that are perfect for kids. These attractions offer a variety of animals to see, as well as educational programs and classes. Whether you’re looking for a traditional zoo experience or something more hands-on, there’s sure to be a zoo or aquarium in Virginia that’s perfect for your family.
Featured Image Credit: VegNews
