Visit Dickerson Park Zoo

While in Springfield, bring the family to meet over 450 different animals from all over the world. The Dickerson Park Zoo, founded in 1923, has been in operation for nearly a century. The zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1986 and is involved in a number of conservation efforts. A one-mile trail leads visitors past the majority of the animal enclosures, which include lions, tigers, and bears. Take advantage of the opportunity to feed a giraffe for an extra $4.

There is a playground and a miniature train on-site; weather permitting, the train runs from March to October for $2 per passenger aged 2 and up (younger children ride free). The zoo admission fee is $16 for adults and $11 for children aged 3 to 12. The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from March to October, and until 4 p.m. the rest of the year (closed if there is snow or ice).

Address: 1401 W. Norton Road, Springfield, MO 65803