Things to Do at Lincoln Children's Zoo
Complete Guide to Lincoln Children's Zoo in Lincoln
About Lincoln Children's Zoo
What to See & Do
Animal Contact Yard
Lincoln Childrens Zoo is home to over 600 animals representing 120 species. Admission $18. Morning visits offer the most active animal viewing and smaller crowds The sounds of splashing water and animal calls create a symphony of natural life while the scent of fresh hay and earth fills the air.
Train Rides
A miniature train that winds through the zoo grounds. Nothing fancy, but kids absolutely love it, and it gives parents a chance to rest their feet.
Prairie Dog Exhibit
These little guys are genuinely entertaining to watch, especially when they pop up and down from their burrows like a live-action whack-a-mole game.
Butterfly Garden
Seasonal outdoor garden that attracts native butterflies. Best visited in late summer when it's actually buzzing with activity.
Educational Programs
Regular keeper talks and animal encounters throughout the day. The staff here really knows their stuff and can answer even the most random questions kids come up with.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Generally open 10am-5pm during peak season (April-October), with reduced winter hours. Worth checking their website as they sometimes close for weather or special events.
Tickets & Pricing
Around $8-12 for adults and $6-10 for children, with kids under 2 typically free. Season passes are available and pay for themselves quickly if you're local. Some activities like train rides cost extra.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall for the full experience. Summer mornings tend to be less crowded, and animals are often more active before the heat kicks in.
Suggested Duration
Plan for 2-3 hours to see everything comfortably. Could stretch longer if kids really get into the interactive experiences.
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
Beautiful botanical garden about 10 minutes away - a nice complement to the zoo visit, especially if you want somewhere peaceful to decompress afterward.
Interactive museum downtown that pairs well with the zoo for a full day of kid-friendly activities.
Large park with nature trails and a nature center. Good for burning off energy after being contained at the zoo.
Free tours of Nebraska's impressive Art Deco capitol building, though this one's probably better for older kids.
Lincoln's entertainment district with restaurants and shops - useful for grabbing lunch or dinner after your zoo visit.