Kansas City Zoo

One of America's best-loved zoos, Kansas City Zoo has been in operation for more than a century. It first opened its doors in 1909, with just one building, and is now a vast complex covering over 80 hectares.

Kansas City Zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals and features four different habitats: the Tropics, Asia, Australia and the impressive African Plains. Nikita, the zoo's legendary polar bear, is the first friendly face you'll see when you come through the entrance hall. Marvel at the energetic North American river otters opposite before heading down the Tiger Trail on your left.

As you approach the Australian area, be sure to check out the zoo's impressive snake enclosure. Admire some emblematic antipodean animals, such as wallabies, emus and kangaroos, in this little slice of Oz in the Midwest.

Then head to the African Plains, one of the best zoological exhibits of its kind in the US. This vast area accounts for around half of the zoo's 80 hectares, and is home to some of the biggest and most impressive animals in the world, including elephants, rhinos, zebras and the magnificent lion. Stroll through the lush savannah or catch a ride on the zoo train. For a different vantage point, take a boat trip across the lake, or soar above the animals on the Sky Safari.

Kansas City Zoo places a great deal of emphasis on education, especially in its child-oriented KidZone. Here you'll find the air-conditioned Discovery Barn, where children can enjoy exhibits, a playground and a climbing area. To experience what life is like at the equator, head to the nearby Tropics exhibit, and watch birds, monkeys and lemurs play amongst the trees in this indoor forest.

Catch the Metro bus to the zoo from downtown Kansas City: it runs seven days a week. Alternatively, you can drive the 15 minutes to Swope Park, which is located to the south of the city. Parking is free, but your entry ticket does not include the cost of rides within the zoo. Kansas City Zoo is open all year.