If you think zoos and wildlife parks are just for school field trips, think again. Where else can you lock eyes with a 400-pound silverback gorilla, watch a giraffe chew its lunch in slow motion, or witness a flamingo stand on one leg like it’s showing off? While zoos can be magical, if you have to struggle through bumpy paths, ramps that feel like uphill battles, or exhibits where all the good views are blocked, then what’s the point of visiting? Thankfully, some zoos have smooth paths, lowered railings, sensory-friendly exhibits, and wheelchair-accessible safari rides so everyone can enjoy nature’s weirdest and wildest moments.
Zoos with Stellar Wheelchair Accessibility
Below are some of the best wheelchair-friendly zoos in America that give you a chance to get up close and personal with everything from lions to lemurs.
San Diego Zoo, California
Nestled in Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo is home to over 12,000 animals, so you’ll get to meet pandas, giraffes, koalas, elephants, capybaras, jaguars, serval, and some animals you didn’t even know existed.
While some parts of the zoo still feature steep grades, you can take the Fern Canyon Trail, Monkey Trail, Hippo Trail, Sun Bear Trail, Tiger Trail, and Africa Rocks to see incredible habitats. Besides that, the zoo offers special access to the experience, ADA-compliant shuttles, and dedicated habitat areas for guests with disabilities.
As for the activities, the zoo offers live wildlife presentations where expert trainers introduce you to some of the zoo’s most fascinating residents. Don’t forget to check out the 4D Theater, where nature documentaries get a whole new level of immersion.
The animals may steal the show, but the zoo’s botanical gardens are equally impressive. You’ll see bamboo, cycads, orchids, palm trees, and ficus. When all that adventure works up your appetite, visit Safari Kitchen to try out burgers and crispy tater tots or Lagoon Terrace for classic hot dogs and ice-cold draft beer. At the end of the day, get wildlife-themed gifts from Roar Store, Zootique, Panda Shop, or Sydney’s Shoppe.
Bronx Zoo, New York
Spanning over 265 acres, the Bronx Zoo offers a different yet wildly entertaining experience that involves way more than fur, feathers, and scales.
At this wildlife wonderland, visit Congo Gorilla Forest to see okapi, pygmy marmosets, and red river hogs. In JungleWorld, marvel at gravity-defying tree kangaroos, swimming otters, and strong white-cheeked gibbons. The Children’s Zoo lets you pet goats, sheep, alpacas, and donkeys, while feeding experiences bring you up close with penguins and sea lions.
If you’re feeling bold, get nose-to-nose with a striped predator at Tiger Mountain. There’s also a Nature Trek that lets you explore elevated walkways with an accessible route, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the wild below.
While most wheeled vehicles are prohibited, you can use manual and power-driven wheelchairs, 3-wheel electric scooters, walkers, and canes. Don’t feel like exploring on your own? Hop on the Wild Asia Monorail for a smooth ride past elephants, rhinos, and deer, or take the Zoo Shuttle to get around easily.
Smithsonian’s National Zoo, Washington D.C.
Located in Rock Creek Park, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a full-on safari adventure with a D.C. skyline backdrop. This zoo features wide and accessible pathways, so you can easily explore the Claws and Paws Pathway, the Elephant Trails, and the wildly fascinating Amazonia. The Naked Mole Rats on the Move exhibit proves that even wrinkly, hairless rodents can be fascinating, while the Small Mammal House and Reptile Discovery Center will have you saying “aww” one second and “nope” the next.
Regarding accessibility, there are dedicated parking spaces for guests with disabilities. If you don’t want to bring your wheelchair, the zoo rents out manual ones for free, while electric convenience vehicles (ECVs) are available for $40. Plus, accessible restrooms are located at Panda Plaza, the Visitor Center, and Elephant Outpost, so you’re never too far from a bathroom break.
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Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Ohio
If you’re tired of staring at sleepy lions from a mile away, you’ll be glad to know that the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers hands-on experiences that bring you face-to-face with some of the world’s coolest creatures.
You can go behind the scenes with the Cheetah Experience, where you’ll get to hear, see, and smell these speedsters. Or try the Capybara Experience, where you can feed them and feel their tongues wrap around your hand. It’s equal parts adorable and slightly slobbery. Stingray Bay offers the ultimate hands-on encounter where you can watch these marvelous creatures glide through the water and touch them.
Besides these experiences, the Columbus Zoo has an entire lineup of rides and attractions, including the Grand Carousel, Adventure Wheel, Jack’s Tea Party, and North American Train Ride, among others. While some rides may be closed for the season, you can still check out Shores Play Park and Wild Explorer Virtual Reality.
As for accessibility, manual wheelchairs are available for $15 (plus tax), and electric scooters for $37 (plus tax). Once you’re inside, just follow the brown signs for accessible pathways.
Saint Louis Zoo, Missouri
With over 16,000 animals, Saint Louis Zoo is another must-visit wheelchair-friendly zoo in the country. Over here, you can head to the Lakeside Crossing to see sea lions, stingrays, and seals while munching on various zoo treats. The River’s Edge exhibit takes you through a lush jungle where rhinos, elephants, and hippos live their best lives, while the Butterfly Wing gives you a glimpse of butterflies, moths, water striders, whirligig beetles, and turtles!
After you’ve marveled at the wildlife, you can take the accessible “Conservation Carousel” or hop on the ADA-compliant Zooline Railroad. If you visit between April 18 and May 11, 2025, you can attend Animals Aglow, which features 60 massive lanterns shaped like animals, plants, and traditional Chinese designs — perfect for date nights, family outings, or anyone who enjoys big, glowing things.
There is free dedicated handicapped parking in the North and South lots as well as on Government Drive. Manual wheelchairs and EVCs are available on a first-come, first-served basis, costing $11 and $35 per day, respectively.
Philadelphia Zoo, Pennsylvania
Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, the Philadelphia Zoo offers a Lion King-like adventure filled with mighty roars, grizzly bears, and way less dramatic cliffs. The Giraffe Experience features accessible pathways that lead you right to the feeding platform, so you can offer a leafy snack to a new long-necked friend. The Barnyard at KidsZooU gives you a chance to touch goats and sheep. At this zoo, you’ll also come across otters, tortoises, alpacas, pumas, red pandas, and even fruit bats.
The Philadelphia Zoo goes above and beyond to ensure accessibility. Most areas are equipped with ramps and elevators, making transitions between exhibits smooth and hassle-free. Plus, key entrances and facilities feature automated doors. You can rent wheelchairs or electric scooters for a small fee.
While the zoo strives for universal accessibility, some areas, like Raptor Ridge, Wings of the World, Bird Valley, and Outback Outpost, may have uneven terrain and steep slopes, so it’s advisable to proceed with caution.
Indianapolis Zoo, Indiana
Whether you want to see Gila monsters, a kudu, a walrus, or a sand cat, the Indianapolis Zoo has you covered. This summer, you’ll also get to meet the Aldabra tortoise, who is four feet long, weighs several hundred pounds, and can live over 150 years.
The best part? This zoo is exceptionally wheelchair-friendly. There are dedicated parking spaces and a wheelchair-accessible shuttle to take you inside the zoo once you’ve parked. Its Carousel and Skyline are also accessible. For the thrill-seekers, there’s the Kōmbo Family Coaster and the White River Junction Train, but you’ll need to transfer from your wheelchair to ride. If you need help, ask your friends or family members because zoo staff can’t assist with transfers.
Enjoy Wildlife Adventures with Wheelchair Getaways
Wildlife adventures are perfect for thrill-seekers, animal lovers, or overly curious toddlers who think every animal is just a funny-shaped dog. If you’re worried about accessible transportation, contact Wheelchair Getaways for vehicle rentals.
With availability in 200 locations nationwide, we’ve got you covered from coast to coast. Our wheelchair-accessible vehicles feature lowered floors, ramps, customizable seating, and securement systems for a safe and comfortable journey.
Plus, we offer flexible rental options, competitive pricing, and discounts for long-term rentals, so you can focus on the adventure, not the logistics. Fill out our online form to get a free rental quote, or contact us at (866) 224-1750 to book your ride.