Little Rock Zoological Gardens

Little Rock Zoological Gardens and its collection

Little Rock Zoological Gardens, opened in 1926, is a zoo in Little Rock, United States.

Over 400 animals of more than 200 species are kept on 33 acres. The zoo operates as a department of city government, and development money is raised by the Arkansas Zoological Foundation, a 501(c)(3).

History

It began in 1924, when Mayor Brickhouse set up a commission to build a municipal zoo. The earliest buildings were raised by the Works Progress Administration in local stone.

Animals and collection

Animals on show include Elephants, Eastern Collared Lizard, Gorillas, Sloth Bear and Penguin.

Exhibits

The entrance area holds the Over-The-Jumps Carousel, an amphitheater for animal shows and Lorikeet Landing, where rainbow lorikeets can be fed. Some areas replicate natural habitats, while others group like animals together.

Things to do

Things to do include Over-the-Jumps Carousel, Arkansas Diamond Express Train, Feed the Fish, Penguin Experience and Sloth Bear Experience.

Conservation and approach

It takes part in the Species Survival Plan run by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

What the venue says

• Sloth Bear Experience
• Reptile Experience
• Parking Supports Wildlife Conservation $3.00 Per Vehicle
• The grounds feature wheelchair-accessible pathways, though some areas include steeper inclines.
• Manual wheelchairs ($13) and electric scooters ($30) are available to rent on a first-come, first-served basis at the Safari Trader Gift Shop.
• Partnered with KultureCity®, the zoo is certified sensory-inclusive.
• Sensory bags equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, and verbal cue cards can be borrowed at the front ticket booth.
• ADA-defined service dogs are welcome, though certain restricted zones (such as the Arkansas Heritage Farm, Tropical Bird House, and specific viewing windows) apply for the safety of both service animals and zoo residents.