





Zoos
Virginia Zoo
📍 3500 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23504🕐 Hours
| Monday | 9:30 AM–4 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM–4 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM–4 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM–4 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM–4 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | 9:30 AM–4 PM |
About Virginia Zoo
Open-air exhibits of 700+ animals. Sprawling park with 700+ animals from 150+ species, plus tours, gardens & kids' camps. Virginia Zoo will celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2026 with special events, discounts, and giveaways. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,680 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Zoo
- Best For
- All ages
- Founded
- 1901 — celebrating 125 years
- Special Programs
- Field trips, education programs, Zoo Tales story-time, event hosting
💡 Did You Know?
- Virginia Zoo will celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2026 with special events, discounts, and giveaways
- The zoo houses 700+ animals representing 150+ species in open-air exhibits
- Virginia Zoo offers a membership reciprocal swap program with The Mariners' Museum and Park, allowing members to visit both venues
- The zoo features Zoo Tales, a story-time program that provides educational narrative experiences for visitors
- The zoo includes interactive experiences such as a petting zoo, train rides, and zoo coin collection activities alongside traditional animal viewing
💬 What Visitors Say
- Plan for multiple visits or a full day - reviewers note you can only see about a quarter of the zoo in one visit, making it a 2-3 day experience. Allow at least 4-6 hours for a single comprehensive visit.
- Visit early in the day when animals are more active and visible. Multiple reviews mention animals being asleep during midday visits, so morning hours will provide better viewing opportunities.
- Take advantage of the membership reciprocal agreement with The Mariners' Museum and Park - membership at one venue provides benefits at the other, offering excellent value if you plan multiple visits or want to explore both attractions.
- Engage with interactive activities like collecting zoo coins, riding the train, and photo opportunities throughout the zoo. These activities enhance the experience and keep children entertained during your visit.
- Mark your calendar for the 125th anniversary celebration in 2026, which will feature special events, discounts, and giveaways - an ideal time to visit if timing allows.
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