Since opening in April of 1964, this wonderful zoo has grown tremendously and developed into a leader of wildlife stewardship and conservation. In 1965, it became one of the few zoos in the country to employ a full-time education staff, and in 1996, it became the first institution to be triple-accredited as a zoo, an aquarium, and a botanical garden. As home to more than 2,000 animals and Indiana’s largest aquarium, you and your family can enjoy a full day of viewing animals roaming in their natural habitats, and a special petting area even allows children to touch some of the tamer animals. Visitors to the zoo will discover that it is organized around the concept of biomes, which are areas of our planet that share a similar climate, plants, and animals. The approximately 250 species of animals at this zoo are clustered into groups that live in a comparable habitat. Each of the five different biomes – oceans, deserts, forests, plains, and “Flights of Fancy” (aviaries) -- participates in conservation and breeding programs.
The Dolphin Pavilion boasts the world’s largest enclosed dolphin show and brings visitors closer to dolphins than ever before – its 30-foot-diameter, 12-foot-high underwater viewing dome in the center of the main performance pool is the first of its kind in the United States! White River Gardens is a three-acre landmark botanical attraction that displays hundreds of plant varieties, educational exhibits, and gardening ideas. Several rides provide thrills, and the Junior Dolphin Trainer program allows anybody to be a part of the Dolphin Adventure Show! With exhibits, programs, lectures, rides, and special events, everybody can have a blast at the Indianapolis Zoo. Hotels in the area allow you to stay conveniently nearby to all the fun. When you stay at Choice Hotels, you enjoy affordable rates, many amenities, and friendly service. We look forward to hosting you soon! Reserve your room today!