Zoos

Alaska Zoo

Name: Alaska Zoo
Address: 4731 O'Malley Rd, Anchorage, AK 99507, Anchorage, AK, US
Telephone: (907) 346-3242
Rating: 4.3

★★★★☆ 4.3 (2641 reviews)

📍 4731 O'Malley Rd, Anchorage, AK 99507

📞 (907) 346-3242

🌐 www.alaskazoo.org

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About Alaska Zoo

Zoo exhibiting a wide range of native Alaskan mammals & birds, plus exotics such as tigers & camels. The zoo features 30-acre natural boreal forest trails winding through the Chugach Mountains foothills, creating an immersive habitat experience rather than traditional enclosed exhibits. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,641 visitors.

Quick Facts

Type: Zoo
Location: 30 acres of natural boreal forest, Chugach Mountains foothills
Focus: Arctic, sub-Arctic, and like climate species conservation and education
Founded: 1969
Special Programs: Animal encounters, overnight stays, field trips, homeschool programs, distance learning

💡 Did You Know?

⭐The zoo features 30-acre natural boreal forest trails winding through the Chugach Mountains foothills, creating an immersive habitat experience rather than traditional enclosed exhibits
🏛️Annabelle the Asian Elephant lived at the Alaska Zoo until 1997, making her a notable example of exotic animals adapted to sub-arctic climates
⭐The zoo houses rescued animals including Bald Eagles that can no longer fly in the wild, functioning as a rehabilitation and sanctuary facility
⭐Interactive offerings include Live Polar Bear Cam, Zoo Snooze Overnight experiences, and animal encounters with polar bears and Amur tigers
⭐The zoo maintains an unusual species combination for Alaska including Amur tigers, Tibetan yaks, and camels alongside native Arctic species like polar bears and wolverines

💬 What Visitors Say

🕐Visit in the morning for the best animal activity. Many animals, including tigers and polar bears, are more active early in the day and may stay inside or rest during afternoon hours.
💡Don't miss the interactive educational displays like the tactile comparisons of Black, Brown, and Polar bear skulls and paw prints - these hands-on exhibits are a standout feature of the zoo.
💡Explore the 30-acre natural boreal forest trails winding through the Chugach Mountains foothills for a unique experience combining wildlife viewing with scenic hiking.
💡Plan to spend time learning about the rescued animals' stories, such as the Bald Eagles unable to fly in the wild and the historical memorial to Annabelle the Asian Elephant - this adds meaningful context to your visit.
💡Take advantage of the on-site café for hot beverages during colder months, and consider visiting during special events like Bear Aware Moms Free (May 10) or Weekly Storytime for enhanced educational experiences.