Indianapolis Zoo

• Address: 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222 (Map)
• Phone Number: (317) 630-2001
• Email Address: info@indianapoliszoo.com
• Hours of Operation: 9 am – 5 pm daily
• Date Founded: 1964
• Accreditation: Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)
• Number of Animals: over 1,416
• Number of Species: over 235
• Park Size: 64 acres
• Website Link: www.indianapoliszoo.com

The Indianapolis Zoo was first established in 1964 and initially featured only a small collection of animals. Over the years, the zoo expanded and grew in size and popularity, and in 1988, it relocated to its current location in White River State Park.

One of the most significant milestones in the zoo’s history was the opening of the world’s first underwater dolphin viewing dome in 1988. This innovative exhibit allowed visitors to observe dolphins swimming and playing underwater, providing a unique and immersive experience.

In the years that followed, the Indianapolis Zoo continued to expand and enhance its exhibits, adding new attractions like the Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center, the Deserts Dome, and the Plains exhibit. Today, the zoo is recognized as one of the top zoos in the country, attracting over a million visitors each year.

But the Indianapolis Zoo’s mission extends beyond providing a fun and engaging experience for visitors. The zoo is also committed to conservation and animal welfare, supporting over 400 conservation projects around the world and playing an active role in the preservation of endangered species.

Overall, the Indianapolis Zoo’s history is one of growth, innovation, and a deep commitment to animal conservation and education. As it continues to evolve and expand, the zoo remains a beloved and important institution in the city of Indianapolis and beyond.

• The Indianapolis Zoo is home to the world’s first underwater dolphin viewing dome.
• The zoo has rare white rhinoceros.
• Visitors can ride a roller coaster, the Skyline, that goes through the middle of the zoo.
• The Indianapolis Zoo has one of the largest group of orangutans in any American zoo.
• The zoo has a botanical garden with over 1,000 species of plants.
• The zoo’s White River Gardens feature a beautiful butterfly exhibit.
• Visitors can ride a 4D theater experience called “Polar Bear: A 4D Experience.”
• The zoo offers behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters for visitors.
• The Indianapolis Zoo is committed to conservation and has funded over 400 conservation projects worldwide.

• The zoo’s seal exhibit allows visitors to see the seals from underwater through a glass wall.
• The zoo has a group of sloths named Quinto, Harvey, Sid, Wilson and ET who are known for moving at a snail’s pace.
• The zoo’s red pandas are always up for a game of hide-and-seek with visitors.
• The zoo’s dolphin show is a crowd favorite, featuring high-flying jumps and synchronized swimming.
• The zoo’s cheetahs can run up to 70 miles per hour!
• The zoo’s macaws are known for their colorful feathers and friendly personalities.
• The zoo has a petting zoo area where visitors can interact with farm animals.
• The zoo’s lemurs are always up for a game of tag with visitors.
• Visitors can enjoy a giraffe feeding experience and get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.

• The Indianapolis Zoo has a playground with a giant spider web for climbing.
• The zoo’s orangutans love to play with toys and visitors can watch them solve puzzles.
• The zoo has a train that takes visitors on a tour of the park.
• The zoo’s sea lions are always up for a game of catch with visitors.
• The zoo’s meerkats love to dig tunnels and peek out to see what’s going on.
• The zoo has a petting zoo area where kids can pet and feed farm animals like goats and sheep.
• The zoo’s butterfly exhibit is a magical experience where kids can see butterflies up close and personal.
• The zoo’s shark touch tank allows kids to touch and feel the rough skin of a shark.
• The zoo’s playground has a water play area where kids can splash and cool off on hot days.
• The zoo’s dolphin show is a must-see for kids, with high-flying jumps and amazing tricks performed by the dolphins.