Arizona Zoos, Wildlife Parks & Animal Attractions

Originally written by Tony Subia

Updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on September 8, 2026

Arizona offers a diverse collection of zoos, wildlife parks, animal sanctuaries and family attractions where visitors can see native Southwestern wildlife as well as animals from around the world. Major destinations range from the Phoenix Zoo and Tucson's Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum to drive-through wildlife parks near Williams and large animal parks in northern Arizona. Use this guide to find animal attractions by region and choose the experience that best fits your Arizona trip.

Phoenix & Central Arizona Zoos

Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center

Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center in Scottsdale rescues, rehabilitates and provides sanctuary for native Arizona wildlife. The sanctuary is not open for unscheduled walk-in visits; advance reservations are required for tours and public events.

Tucson & Southern Arizona Animal Attractions

Northern Arizona Zoos & Wildlife Parks

Bearizona Wildlife Park

Bearizona Wildlife Park in Williams combines a drive-through wildlife experience with a walk-through animal park featuring North American wildlife. The park is located along Historic Route 66 near Interstate 40 and is convenient for travelers heading toward the Grand Canyon South Rim.

Keepers Of The Wild

Keepers of the Wild is a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary and nature park in Valentine, Arizona, along Historic Route 66. The sanctuary provides lifelong care for rescued exotic and native animals and offers general admission and guided wildlife tours.

Choosing An Arizona Zoo Or Wildlife Park

Arizona's animal attractions offer very different experiences. Traditional zoos such as Phoenix Zoo and Reid Park Zoo provide large collections, educational programs and family-friendly exhibits, while the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum focuses heavily on native Sonoran Desert wildlife and plants. Bearizona and Out of Africa offer wildlife-park experiences, while Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, Keepers of the Wild and Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center emphasize rescued or sanctuary animals.

Families with young children may prefer attractions with compact walking areas and children's activities, while travelers seeking larger wildlife experiences may prefer drive-through parks or guided sanctuary tours. Always check current admission requirements, hours and reservation policies directly with the attraction before traveling.

Tips For Visiting Arizona Zoos & Wildlife Parks

• Check current operating hours before visiting because many Arizona attractions use seasonal schedules.
• Reserve tours in advance when visiting wildlife sanctuaries that do not accept unscheduled walk-in guests.
• Visit outdoor animal attractions early in the day during warmer months for more comfortable temperatures.
• Bring water, sunscreen, hats and comfortable walking shoes for outdoor attractions.
• Review each attraction's animal encounter, feeding and photography rules before your visit.
• Allow extra travel time for wildlife parks in northern Arizona and other rural locations.
• Confirm ticket prices and special-event schedules directly with the attraction before traveling.

Arizona Zoos & Wildlife Parks FAQ

What are some of the best zoos in Arizona?

Major Arizona zoos include Phoenix Zoo in Phoenix, Reid Park Zoo in Tucson and Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park in Litchfield Park. Arizona also has numerous wildlife parks, sanctuaries and specialized animal attractions.

What wildlife parks are near the Grand Canyon?

Bearizona Wildlife Park and Grand Canyon Deer Farm are both located in Williams, south of Grand Canyon National Park. They can be convenient additions to a northern Arizona or Grand Canyon trip.

What is the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum?

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum near Tucson combines a zoo, botanical garden, natural history museum, aquarium and art experiences with a strong emphasis on the plants and animals of the Sonoran Desert.

Is Bearizona a zoo or a drive-through wildlife park?

Bearizona combines both experiences. Visitors can drive through several miles of wildlife habitat and also explore a walk-through area with additional animal exhibits and programs.

Does Arizona have wildlife sanctuaries visitors can tour?

Yes. Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, Keepers of the Wild and Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center are examples of Arizona wildlife sanctuaries that offer visitor experiences, although access and reservation requirements vary.

Does Arizona have a Native American zoo?

Yes. The Navajo Nation Zoo and Botanical Park in Window Rock is owned and operated by the Navajo Nation and focuses on animals of the Southwest that have cultural importance to the Navajo people.

Are Arizona zoos open year-round?

Many Arizona zoos and wildlife parks operate year-round, but hours often change seasonally. Some attractions may also close on specific holidays or require reservations, so visitors should check current information before traveling.

What is the best time of day to visit an Arizona zoo?

Morning is often a good choice, particularly during warm weather. Temperatures are generally cooler, walking is more comfortable and some animals may be more active earlier in the day.

---

Arizona Animals