Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

About

The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium sits on 202 acres of Swope Park, home to more than 10,000 animals from around the world. It's one of the region's most beloved attractions, drawing families, animal lovers, and curious visitors of all ages to explore habitats ranging from the African plains to polar bear territory.

The aquarium wing brings the ocean to the Midwest with sea otters, sharks, jellyfish, and octopus among nearly 8,000 aquatic animals. Floor-to-ceiling tanks and interactive exhibits make the experience immersive and memorable. Kids and adults alike tend to linger here longer than they planned.

Outdoor exhibits are spread across rolling parkland with paved pathways connecting different zones. You'll find elephants, penguins, big cats, and a popular stingray touch tank along the way. Seasonal events and keeper talks add variety throughout the year, so repeat visits always feel fresh.

Planning ahead makes the trip smoother. The zoo offers a tram service that helps cover the larger distances between exhibit areas, which is especially helpful on hot days or for visitors with limited stamina. Plenty of dining spots and shaded rest areas are scattered throughout the grounds.

Whether you're spending a full day or just a few hours, the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium rewards a relaxed pace. Take your time, bring sunscreen, and don't skip the aquarium tunnel where sharks glide overhead. It's the kind of place that reminds you why zoos still matter.

Accessibility

The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is widely recognized as one of Kansas City's most inclusive attractions. The main entrance is ADA-compliant with no steps or stairs, and accessible parking is available near the entrance.

Wheelchair and ECV (electric convenience vehicle) rentals are available on-site for visitors who need mobility assistance. Visitors who use powered wheelchairs have reported that the zoo and aquarium are easy to traverse, with paved pathways connecting exhibit areas throughout the 202-acre grounds.

The zoo is also noted for being sensory-inclusive, making it a welcoming destination for visitors with sensory sensitivities. Kansas City's tourism office specifically highlights the zoo as a place where guests can enjoy the experience without overwhelming sights, sounds, or other sensory factors.

Accessible restrooms are available throughout the park. The tram service that runs between exhibit areas can be helpful for visitors who have difficulty covering longer distances on foot.

For the most current information on specific accommodations, rental availability, pricing for mobility devices, or to arrange assistance in advance, contact the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium directly before your visit.

More accessible places in Missouri

• National WWI Museum and Memorial (Kansas City)
• Union Station Kansas City (Kansas City)
• Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (Kansas City)
• Worlds of Fun (Kansas City)
• Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (Kansas City)
• Gateway Arch National Park (St. Louis)