Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo
Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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This zoo is definitely on the rise, but for various reasons I still would not quite give it a five out of five. They have several interactive exhibits, but the animals did not seem up for it in this Louisiana summer heat. If you are going on a summer day, the splash pad is a must. We took our baby, and he absolutely enjoyed it. Only con was that he is not walking just yet, and the concrete lining can be a bit rough on the knees. As for getting dry, you can change in one of the two bathrooms, but they are not cooled down very well. I choose to walk and dry for that reason. Last on our list of cons would be the petting zoo. We were told that it is only open when they have birthday parties scheduled, so it was a little sad being that that exhibit is one of the closest our baby can see. PROS - You can ride the boat or train for a small extra fee. There are many well shaded areas and even a small park area for those who want a break without getting in the water. Memberships are available for those who like to frequent the zoo and want to save a little money. The petting zoo does have the cutest animals when you do catch it open. Overall, it is worth the trip.
ShyAnn Aultman
00
The city is slowly, but surely building it back up. We feed the Budgies every time we visit. My sons love it. Looks like they are remodeling the splash pad. Hopefully it'll be ready this spring/summer when it warm up. The nocturnal building has been closed for a long while now. They've finally gotten rid of the entire building. Can't wait to see what they replace it with, but it looks like they haven't done much work to that huge empty spot. The train ride is also a favorite for us. Haven't been on the boat in about 5 years. From what I knew our zoo to be as a kid, I loved going there almost every other weekend. I always go to see the elephant, hippo, rhino, and I loved visiting the nursery they had. It's definitely not the same for me anymore but my sons love to go, especially my youngest. I believe it'll be great again, hopefully someday soon.
JaLaura Tarver
00
They are still under construction doing the renovations (I think there will be lots of improvements in the near future). The gift shop was closed so no stroller rental, coke machines were out of order, the walkway had ankle deep water standing in a lot of spots we had to wade through, one of the zebras was dead by the train tracks, reptile house & hippo building were closed. There was 1 little Kona ice stand a teenage boy was working in the whole place to get a snow cone & he was super sweet even though he was in the 100+ degree weather with 200% humidity bc it had just rained he still was working with a smile on his face. It has tons of potential but will take time & money to get there.
Sara Stover
00
This GEM, smaller zoo, is nestled somewhat in a residential area. I was wonderfully surprised once I entered. The zoo safari boat ride is a MUST do!!! It was a 20-minute guided tour. The young man driving the boat was very knowledgeable about the animals we saw. He answered all questions that were asked. Walking around looking at the animals in their habitats was typical. There is a larger splash area for children to get wet. I was DISAPPOINTED that the train wasn't running due to maintenance. I was looking forward to the ride. Even though I drove 2 hours for the visit, I would definitely visit again. However, I will call 1st to make sure the train is scheduled to run ๐.
Ammie Stewart
00
I enjoyed my walk there. The boat ride was really my favorite thing to do. Very educational.
Elizabeth Cross
00
We went to days I a row so we could feed the birds at 3:00
Courtney Taylor
00
Basic Info
Address
1405 Bernstein Park Dr, Monroe, LA 71202
Map
Phone
(318) 329-2400
Call
Website
monroezoo.org
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.1
(678 reviews)
Ratings & Description
outdoor
cultural
entertainment
family friendly
accessibility
Description
Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, located in Monroe, Louisiana, is an 80-acre zoological park that exhibits over 500 animals.
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