Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a Low-Cost Treat for the Whole Family

The seventh oldest zoo in the United States, established in 1882, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is located near downtown Cleveland and, according to state tourist records, is the most visited year-round attraction in Northeast Ohio. Operated by Cleveland Metroparks since 1975 - a system of nature preserves in Greater Cleveland that encircle the city - the zoo covers 165 acres and is accredited by the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

The zoo began on a 73-acre plot of land on the West Oval of the University Circle area of the city. Fourteen deer were the first inhabitants. For the most part, during the early years, Cleveland Zoo animals were mostly indigenous to the area. However, more exotic animals arrived in the 1930s, and in 1940, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History took over management of the zoo. Some favorite attractions were added during that era, including Monkey Island and the African Safari. From 1957 until 1975, the zoo was under the control of the Cleveland Zoological Society. Accreditation was received in 1982 after Metroparks took over.

Currently, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is divided into 6 different sections: African Savanna, Australian Adventure, Northern Trek, The Rain Forest, Waterfowl Lake, and a Primate, Cat, and Aquatics section. The zoo is nicely spread out with wide walkways and plenty of room for strollers and each section holds something unique and fascinating.

In the African Savanna, the first section one reaches after entering the gate, visitors will find lions, zebras, giraffes, rhinos, gazelles, and several species of African birds. The nearby Pachyderm building offers a look at elephants, hippos, warthogs, and a few other varieties. Monkey Island is also located here as is the TOUCH! exhibit, a saltwater tank where visitors can touch stingrays and small sharks.

Australian Adventure is an 8-acre section of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo that profiles animals from Down Under, including kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. There's also an area modeled after the Outback, open from April through November.

Northern Trek features the animals of the cold areas of the earth, near the North Pole. This includes a large collection of bears - the largest such collection in North America - as well as wolves, reindeer, Siberian tigers, harbor seals, and sea lions. At Waterfowl Lake there are lots of flamingos and other water birds but also land animals like lemurs and gibbons. Nearby at the Public Greenhouse is a butterfly exhibit.

The Primate, Cat, and Aquatics Building showcases the zoo's collection of primate species, the largest in North America. Some 35 species are included here. Cheetahs, snow leopards, and other species make up the "cat'' section of the zoo while the aquatics building includes a living coral display as well as piranhas, sharks, octopi, and a variety of other species.

Outside the gates of the park is the Rain Forest. Featuring more than 2 acres of floor space spread out over two stories, this is one of the world's largest indoor tropical environments. More than 6,000 plants and 6,000 animals fill the space. Admission is included with entrance to the zoo.

Frequent special events are held at the zoo, most suitable for the whole family but some designed especially for one age group or another. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo also welcomes birthdays, meetings, weddings, or any other events and rents indoor or outdoor facilities to interested parties.