Near Seattle, families can easily take their kids to see big cats, giraffes, flamingos, bears, and more at the Woodland Park Zoo! When we lived in the area we visited the zoo often, and it’s still a highlight every time we bring our kids back. The Woodland Park Zoo offers more than we can usually see in one visit. On a misty, overcast Seattle afternoon, a walk through the zoo feels relaxed and magical. Our family guide to visiting the zoo with kids includes our favorite exhibits and a few tips to make the most of your day.
Why Woodland Park Zoo Is Great for Families
The Woodland Park Zoo is laid out well, especially for sitting right in the middle of a city. Wooded walking paths are easy to navigate with a stroller or a group of kids. Additionally, the whole zoo is divided into themed sections, each with animals native to a part of the world. Exhibits include the African Savanna, Australasia, Tropical Asia, the Northern Trail, the Temperate Forest, Tropical Rain Forest, Penguins, and the Wildlife Theater. One of the things we love most is letting our kids take the lead and pick which section to explore next. In one afternoon we visited the African Savanna, the tropics, the Australian wilderness, and the mountains!
Our Favorite Animals and Exhibits
Big cats – In the Tropical Asia section, my girls loved watching the Malayan tiger prowl around his enclosure. Seeing a big cat up close is always a highlight!
The reptile house – This was a fascinating stop, home to snakes of all sizes and even several huge Komodo dragons.
Giraffes – The giraffes were out and eager to say hello, and they are always a favorite for our kids to see towering above them.
Flamingos – Visiting the pink flamingos was one of my own favorite things as a kid, so I love sharing them with my children. Fun fact we talk about every time: flamingos are pink because of the minerals in their diet of shrimp and algae.
Otters – Through the glass, my girls watched the playful otters dive and twirl like little mermaids. So fun to watch!
Grizzly bear – This huge grizzly was my little guy’s favorite animal. He stared and stared, completely unfazed, just taking it all in from 20 feet away. I, on the other hand, would not want to meet one in the wild!
Raptors in Flight – On another visit we watched the Raptors in Flight show, where keepers introduce the zoo’s resident birds of prey and demonstrate their impressive flying and hunting skills. A great way for kids to learn about these aerial hunters!
Don’t Miss the Historic Carousel
My girls also loved riding the zoo’s historic carousel. My older daughter wants to ride every carousel she sees, because of course it’s magical! The Woodland Park Zoo carousel is a lovely, classic stop tucked among the animal exhibits. Its wood panels are decorated with charming landscape paintings, among whimsical carousel lights.
Tips for Visiting Woodland Park Zoo with Kids
Bring a good stroller – The zoo is large with lots of wooded pathways, and a compact, easy-folding stroller made a big difference for us. Our little ones wanted to hop in and out to look at animals. We love our Joovy Caboose Ultralight stroller because of its compact size and versatile features.
Don’t let the weather stop you – Some of our best visits were on classic gray Seattle days. The animals are often more active and the paths are less crowded.
Let the kids lead – Handing kids the map and letting them choose the next exhibit keeps them engaged and turns the visit into an adventure.
Consider a membership if you’re local – When we lived nearby, a zoo membership let us visit for a couple of relaxed hours, without feeling like we had to see everything.
Visit in winter for the lights – In the colder months, the zoo hosts a spectacular holiday light display that is worth a special trip.
Plan Your Seattle Family Trip
The Woodland Park Zoo is one of many wonderful things to do in the city. For more ideas on museums, playgrounds, aquariums, and rainy-day fun, see our full guide to Seattle with kids!
What is your family’s favorite animal to visit at the zoo?
Hi, I’m Katie! I’m a homeschool mom who’s traveling the world with my husband and 4 kids. We raised our family in North Idaho and currently live in Mérida, Mexico. I love Jesus, coffee, creative projects, photography, and traveling. I hope you enjoy our creative ideas and family adventures!
