Local Attractions: Topeka Zoo

Topeka is fortunate to have a local attraction such as the Topeka Zoo.  This past weekend, I was reacquainted with it after at least 15 years.  My company had a picnic at the zoo, and Aaron and I were able to take in the zoo for 3 hours on Saturday.

I have been to three other zoo’s in my lifetime: Kansas City, St. Louis, and San Diego.  For the price of admission at  the Topeka Zoo (while much smaller) it is a very attractive and a great value. 

Admission is as follows:

  • Infants and toddlers (2 and under) FREE
  • Children (Ages 3-12) $3.75
  • Adults $5.25
  • Senior Citizens (65 and over) $4.25

    • While at the zoo, Aaron and I were able to take a look at hippos, giraffes, lions, elephants, a snake, an orangutan, bald eagles, zebras, bats, bears, and other countless animals.  I was disappointed that while we were there, the other big cats and gorillas appeared to be hiding from visitors, but that happens at most zoos from time to time. 

    I will tell you that the enclosures housing the animals are nice and allow you to remain very close to the animals.  It makes for a real hands-on experience.  In the Children’s Zoo area we could pet goats and sheep.  While we were walking between the lions and the zebras (which is an odd pairing indeed), one of the female lions roared at me for about a minute.  Then she roared at me again when I moved.  I have never heard a lion roar up close and it was an awesome and somewhat frightening experience (even though we were completely safe).  We also got to hear one of the Hippos make a very loud noise while we were in the building that houses them.

    The Topeka Zoo has some attractions coming soon, so I do believe that Aaron and I will be making a return visit to check them out as well.  I would encourage all residents to take the time to reacquaint themselves with this very valueable local attaction.

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