Nestled in the heart of Midtown, the Memphis Zoo is more than just a fun day out. It’s a beloved institution that reflects the best of who we are as a city: curious, connected, and committed to making a difference. For over 100 years, the zoo has welcomed generations of Memphians through its gates, creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you remember your first field trip, your kids squealing with joy at Zoo Boo, or the quiet awe of watching elephants roam under the trees, this place has likely played a part in your story. And it’s still growing.
More Than Just a Zoo
The Memphis Zoo cares for over 3,500 animals, from tiny frogs to giant elephants. But what makes it exceptional is the care behind the collection. Dedicated animal teams work around the clock to ensure each species thrives in habitats tailored to their needs. The zoo is also on the cutting edge of global conservation. It was the first in the world to produce reptile offspring through frozen semen and artificial insemination. This innovation could help save critically endangered species. From fieldwork in the United States to international research partnerships, the zoo is making a real impact for wildlife.
Educating the Next Generation
Each year, thousands of students explore the zoo through camps, school programs, and hands-on experiences. These moments spark curiosity, connect kids to the natural world, and often inspire lifelong passions. In a time when nature can feel distant, that kind of inspiration matters.
Community at Its Core
The zoo isn’t just for tourists. It’s part of daily life for many Memphians. Programs like Tennessee Tuesdays provide free admission to local residents, ensuring cost is never a barrier. Seasonal events like Zoo Lights, Zoo Boo, and summer splash days bring people together in the most Memphis way, with fun, heart, and a strong sense of community. The Memphis Zoo is a nonprofit that relies on community support to fuel everything from animal care to education. When you buy a ticket, become a member, attend an event, or make a donation, you are investing in something that protects, inspires, and brings joy to our city.
Looking Ahead
The Memphis Zoo is entering a new era. A major campus revitalization is underway. It will begin with a complete reimagining of the Africa exhibit, including expanded and modernized habitats for elephants, giraffes, and rhinos. These changes will create new opportunities for both animal well-being and guest connection. This is the start of a long-term vision to ensure the zoo continues to lead in animal care, conservation, and education.
A Place Worth Showing Off
It’s no surprise the Memphis Zoo is consistently ranked among the best in the nation. But its greatest strength lies in its role as a unifier. It brings people from every part of the city together, united in wonder, learning, and love for animals. The next time you are looking for something meaningful to do, grab a friend, bring the kids, or take a solo walk. You are not just visiting a zoo. You are experiencing a piece of Memphis at its finest.
This blog was written by Amanda Moses, Memphis Zoo PR and Communications Manager
Amanda Moses is the PR & Communications Manager at the Memphis Zoo, where she brings stories to life that highlight wildlife, conservation, and the heart of the city. A proud Memphian who grew up visiting the Zoo, she’s now raising her own family here and finds joy in celebrating everything that makes the 901 special.
