Maryland Zoo

A visit to Maryland Zoo is a wonderful way to spend a few hours interacting with a variety of beautiful exotic creatures from the four corners of the globe. This animal enclosure may not be as large as other zoos but it can boast of some excellent attractions such as the African and Artic exhibitions, as well as the Maryland Wilderness section and the Children's Zoo.

Located in Druid Hill Park, this little zoo began with the donation of four swans back in 1876, making it one of the country's oldest animal parks. Covering 65 hectares, Maryland Zoo also includes an elephant house, which first opened to the public in the 1920s.

Nowadays, the zoo has grown in size to exhibit over 2,000 mammals, amphibians, birds and reptiles from all over the world. Transport yourself into Africa with the African Journey trails where you will see cheetahs, elephants, chimpanzees and others animals indigenous to Africa. If you like, you can even feed the giraffes for a small fee.

The zookeepers at Maryland Zoo are very knowledgeable and enthusiastic when it comes to the animals here. At certain times throughout the day they give presentations or feeding demos for your entertainment, a definite must-see! In the Artic exhibition you can witness giant polar bears gliding through the water at Polar Bear Watch. Or head over to the Maryland Wilderness area and brush the goats in the farmyard.

Younger children will enjoy going to the Children's Zoo where they can interact with the animals and have fun in the playgrounds. Another attraction is the VIP-Experience Breakfast which is on during summer months on particular days, but be mindful, this isn't cheap.

Located only a 10-minute drive from Inner Harbor, Maryland Zoo is a lovely place to spend a few hours with the kids when the sun is shining. The winter season sees some attractions closed, however entry fee is halved as a consolation. There is plenty of free parking available and also a café on site if you are feeling peckish. Check the official website for current details.