Zoo Knoxville

Zoo Knoxville, located in Knoxville, Tennessee, is a 53-acre zoological park dedicated to providing dynamic guest experiences while inspiring action to save wildlife and wild places.

Home to over 1,500 animals representing 200 species, the zoo offers captivating habitats that blend wild fun with conservation education.

Exhibits and Attractions

Zoo Knoxville features a variety of exhibits designed to immerse visitors in the natural habitats of its animal residents.

• Boyd Family Asian Trek: This exhibit showcases naturalistic habitats for Malayan tigers, white-naped cranes, silvered-leaf langurs, and white-handed gibbons. Recognized as one of the top 10 zoo exhibits in the U.S., it offers an immersive experience into Asian wildlife.
• Tiger Forest: A multi-acre habitat and breeding facility for the critically endangered Malayan tigers and white-naped cranes. Visitors can observe these rare species in an environment that mirrors their natural surroundings.
• Clayton Family Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Campus (ARC): Opened in 2021, this state-of-the-art facility houses various reptile and amphibian species, including Cuban crocodiles and various tortoise varieties. The ARC is a focal point of the zoo's conservation efforts.
• Grasslands Africa: This exhibit evokes an African savanna, featuring species such as reticulated giraffes, Hartmann's mountain zebras, and southern ground hornbills. The Williams Family Giraffe Encounter allows guests to feed giraffes, enhancing the interactive experience.

Conservation Efforts

Zoo Knoxville is committed to conservation and species survival.

The zoo has bred the first two African elephants born in the Western Hemisphere in 1978 and has bred more endangered red pandas than any other zoo in the world.

Additionally, the zoo is a leader in the breeding of endangered tortoises.

Events and Programs

The zoo hosts various events and programs throughout the year:

• Zoofari: An annual fundraising event that supports the zoo's education, conservation, and animal care programs. The 2024 Zoofari raised over $1.1 million.
• Max’s Aviary: Opened in March 2025, this exhibit features Scarlet, Blue-throated, and Hyacinth Macaws, offering visitors the opportunity to experience these South American birds up close.

Visitor Information

Zoo Knoxville is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the last ticket sold one hour before closing.

The zoo is located at 3500 Knoxville Zoo Drive, Knoxville, TN 37914.

Parking is available for $5.00, with free parking for membership holders.

Locations

• Knoxville, TN, USA