





Zoos
Hovatter’s Wildlife Zoo
📍 291 Wagner Ln, Kingwood, WV 26537🕐 Hours
| Monday | 10 AM–6 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10 AM–6 PM |
| Wednesday | 10 AM–6 PM |
| Thursday | 10 AM–6 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM–6 PM |
| Saturday | 10 AM–6 PM |
| Sunday | 10 AM–6 PM |
About Hovatter’s Wildlife Zoo
Celebrated spot with an array of species. Native & exotic animals can be seen at this family-friendly destination with all-ages activities. Hovatter's Wildlife Zoo offers interactive feeding experiences with multiple animal species including giraffes, camels, pygmy goats, lemurs, and parakeets, allowing visitors to hand-feed animals directly. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,961 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Zoo
- Location
- West Virginia
- Opening Day 2026
- April 11
- Animal Species
- Over 30 species including giraffes, big cats, primates, and more
- Interactive Experiences
- Animal feeding and viewing experiences
💡 Did You Know?
- Hovatter's Wildlife Zoo offers interactive feeding experiences with multiple animal species including giraffes, camels, pygmy goats, lemurs, and parakeets, allowing visitors to hand-feed animals directly
- The zoo features an immersive bird cage walk-through experience where parakeets land directly on visitors, creating a Disney princess-like interactive encounter
- The zoo regularly hosts special events featuring newborn animals available for photo opportunities, indicating an active breeding program
- Hovatter's Wildlife Zoo maintains a diverse collection including both native and exotic species such as chimpanzees, grizzly bears, tigers, leopards, giraffes, lions, hyenas, zebras, kangaroos, emus, and flamingos
💬 What Visitors Say
- Purchase food bags in advance - they're essential for the interactive feeding experience with giraffes, goats, camels, and deer. The carrot sticks are particularly popular for giraffe feeding and watching their tongues. Budget $48 for two adult tickets plus feeding options.
- Visit on weekdays when crowds are minimal for a more relaxed experience. Reviewers noted having the zoo nearly to themselves, allowing 2.5-3 hours to enjoy animals at their own pace without congestion.
- The parakeet/bird cage experience is thrilling but not suitable for young children - birds get underfoot and can startle small kids, risking injury to the birds. It's better suited for older kids and adults who won't be frightened by birds landing on them.
- Bring a stroller for children under 5-6 years old. The grounds require significant walking, and the path down to see zebras goes over a hill. Strollers help tired young visitors complete the full experience without carrying them.
- Plan for handwashing stations available near the entrance and throughout the grounds with soap provided. Wash hands before and after animal interactions for safety and hygiene when feeding animals up close.
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