Hogle Zoo

About

Utah's Hogle Zoo sits at the mouth of Emigration Canyon in Salt Lake City, where visitors can explore exhibits featuring over 800 animals from across the globe. Founded in 1931, the zoo has grown into one of the most popular family destinations in the state, drawing more than a million visitors each year.

The zoo's exhibits take you on a journey through diverse habitats. Rocky Shores features playful sea lions and seals, while the African Savanna brings giraffes, zebras, and ostriches together in a sprawling open space. The Elephant Encounter offers close-up views of Asian elephants, and the Great Apes building is home to orangutans and gorillas. Kids especially love the small animal building, where they can meet reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates up close.

Seasonal events keep things fresh throughout the year. ZooLights transforms the grounds into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights during the holiday season. Summer brings extended hours, keeper talks, and animal feeding experiences that create memorable moments for families.

Practical details make planning your visit straightforward. The zoo is open year-round, with hours varying by season. Parking is available on-site, and the grounds are set along a gentle hillside with paved pathways connecting the exhibits. A variety of dining options and gift shops are scattered throughout the park.

Whether you're watching a tiger prowl through its habitat or feeding a giraffe from an elevated platform, Hogle Zoo offers a full day of discovery. The combination of well-designed exhibits, educational programs, and a beautiful mountain backdrop makes it a standout destination in the Salt Lake City area.

Accessibility

Utah's Hogle Zoo welcomes visitors with mobility needs and offers several accommodations to ensure a comfortable experience. The main entrance is ADA-compliant, and accessible parking spaces are located near the entrance for convenient access to the grounds.

Personal wheelchairs and electric conveyance vehicles (ECVs) are permitted throughout the zoo, with the request that ECVs be set to walking speed for everyone's safety. Wheelchair rentals are also available on-site for those who need them. If someone in your party requires an adapted stroller, you can contact the zoo ahead of time to arrange an "Easy Access" option.

The zoo's pathways are paved, connecting exhibits across the grounds. Some areas involve gentle slopes given the zoo's hillside location, so visitors using manual wheelchairs may want to plan accordingly or bring a companion for assistance on inclines. ADA-compliant restrooms are available throughout the park.

The zoo also provides support for visitors with visual and hearing impairments, though specific details about these accommodations should be confirmed directly with guest services before your visit. For the most current information on accessibility features, rental availability, and any seasonal changes, contact Utah's Hogle Zoo directly or visit their accessibility page on their official website.

More accessible places in Utah

• Natural History Museum of Utah (Salt Lake City)
• Red Butte Garden (Salt Lake City)
• Clark Planetarium (Salt Lake City)
• Utah Museum of Fine Arts (Salt Lake City)
• This Is The Place Heritage Park (Salt Lake City)
• Solitude Mountain Resort (Salt Lake City)