Going to the zoo, for many of us, was an annual event (or maybe we visited more frequently) during childhood. And, we likely had our favorite animals that we always had to see first, right? Whether we made a beeline for the penguins or ran straight to the tigers, we couldn’t wait to get a close-up view of our favorite animals. After you’ve visited the old favorites at your next visit to this zoo in Missouri, visit these rare animals that you may never have seen in person – yet.

Breathe in the fresh air as you explore the more than 200-acre Kansas City Zoo that’s home to more than 1,300 animals - both exotics you may never have seen in person and all of our old favorites.

Trip Advisor/management

Perhaps start your visit with the African Painted Dogs. An endangered species, only 5,500 painted dogs remain in the wild.

Facebook/Kansas City Zoo

Snap photos of such exotics as the red panda, the black-footed cat, and the matschie tree kangaroo.

Facebook/Kansas City Zoo

Of course, don’t forget to stop by to see such favorites as the polar bears, African elephants, cheetahs, and California sea lions.

Facebook/Kansas City Zoo

And, what would a trip to the zoo be without a visit with the penguins? Helzberg Penguin Plaza, Stingray Bay, and Orangutan Canopy are just a few of the other must visit zoo attractions.

Facebook/Kansas City Zoo

Sneak a peek at the kangaroos, too, where a joey might be hanging out in mama’s pouch.

Facebook/Kansas City Zoo

Join one of the zookeeper chats throughout the day. And, grab a seat at one of the daily animal shows: Amazing Animal Ambassadors at 10:30 a.m. and Wings of Wonder Bird Show at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Facebook/Kansas City Zoo

Then, before you head out for the day, grab at bite to eat at the Rafiki Restaurant or at one of the concession stands throughout the zoo. Or, stock up on souvenirs at the gift shop.

Facebook/Kansas City Zoo

Explore the Kansas City Zoo, which features seasonal hours. Through February, the zoo is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Facebook/Kansas City Zoo

The Kansas City Zoo is located at 6800 Zoo Dr., Kansas City, MO 64132.

Facebook/Kansas City Zoo Click here for the official website of the Kansas City Zoo. Or, go here for Facebook.

What’s your favorite animal at the Kansas City Zoo in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! Then, click here to read about one of America’s best zoos – right here in Missouri. Click here to read more.

Trip Advisor/management

Facebook/Kansas City Zoo

Click here for the official website of the Kansas City Zoo. Or, go here for Facebook.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: 6800 Zoo Dr., Kansas City, MO 64132