Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium Tours

Henry Doorly Zoo which includes zoo animals
Henry Doorly Zoo which includes zoo animals
Henry Doorly Zoo showing marine life and interior views as well as a small group of people
Henry Doorly Zoo featuring zoo animals and marine life as well as children
Henry Doorly Zoo which includes interior views and a garden as well as a small group of people


Journey through the world’s biggest indoor desert, spot magnificent creatures in the aquarium and explore indoor rainforests and swamps in Nebraska’s premier zoo.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a nationally renowned facility where you can embark on adventures through the desert, plunge into the shadows of the nocturnal world and explore the jungle, all in one day. Spot critters from around the world and take a ride on a carousel, a train or even a camel! The zoo has a wide array of habitats and exhibits, which showcase over 950 species of animals. Learn about the different creatures at one of the zoo’s daily presentations and classes provided for visitors of all ages.

Walk along trails that wind through the Lied Jungle, one of the largest indoor rainforests in the world. Peek through a waterfall into the foliage and you might see monkeys, tapirs and the bright-red flash of a scarlet macaw. Head to the aquarium to discover sea life from the polar regions to the tropics. See sharks circling above you and watch penguins from Antarctica.

Check out the pavilion for butterflies and explore the stunning aviary. Don’t miss the Desert Dome, an enormous glazed geodesic dome and desert environment that replicates the sandy habitats of Africa, Australia and the southwest United States. Beneath the dome lies the Kingdoms of the Night exhibit, a fascinating insight into the dark world of nocturnal animals.

Join a guided tour, attend a presentation or catch a documentary at the zoo’s IMAX Theater. You can meet zookeepers, watch animal shows or see the animals being fed. Get around the zoo easily via the train, tram and the Skyfari aerial tram. Choose from three different restaurants, including a treetop cafeteria overlooking the Lied Jungle, or grab snacks at the zoo’s concession stands.

The Henry Doorly Zoo grounds are located in Deer Park, between the Missouri River and the Durham Western Heritage Museum. Parking is available on-site for free. There are discounted admission costs for children under 12, as well as combination tickets for IMAX screenings. The zoo is open daily year-round, except for Christmas Day.

Reviews of Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

4.7
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
465
5 - Excellent 77%
4 - Good
110
4 - Good 18%
3 - Okay
22
3 - Okay 4%
2 - Disappointing
4
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
3
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Make it a two day trip!

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

The zoo was beautiful but not the most disabled child friendly. Also the ticketing staff really did not provide the options to purchase extra things. Basically they asked which ticket you want. As it turns out there were many other options. It coust $120.00 for a day and rides for the family. Had I been offered I would have bought a membership pass for $100.00, it was not only cheaper but would have allowed us to come again without spending another $50 00 to get in. We were visitinnnnng. wiith a disabled child. The zoo was a bit c

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveler

Don't go on a Saturday in August; hot and so many people it was not even remotely fun. We'd been before, and had a great time, but the amount of STROLLERS and rude people was just beyond ridiculous.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

It was wonderful. We spent a half day there but should have allowed at least a whole day. Seeing the Aquarium and Desert domes, and Tropical building were high points of our visit the here.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Be sure to take in the desert dome. So much more to see there than originally thought.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

great place to stay if you are going to the zoo. its right down the highway. so easy

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Magnolia Hotel Omaha

Magnolia Hotel Omaha

4.5 out of 5
1615 Howard St Omaha NE
Magnolia Hotel Omaha
Hotel Deco

Hotel Deco

4.5 out of 5
1504 Harney Street Omaha NE
Hotel Deco
Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha Downtown Old Market

Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha Downtown Old Market

3.5 out of 5
555 S 10th St Omaha NE
Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha Downtown Old Market
Beautiful Home near Zoo/College World Series/Downtown

Beautiful Home near Zoo/College World Series/Downtown

Omaha NE
Beautiful Home near Zoo/College World Series/Downtown
Hyatt Place Omaha Downtown Old Market

Hyatt Place Omaha Downtown Old Market

3 out of 5
540 S 12th St Omaha NE
Hyatt Place Omaha Downtown Old Market
Moxy Omaha Downtown

Moxy Omaha Downtown

3.5 out of 5
409 South 12th Street Omaha NE
Moxy Omaha Downtown
Cozy Home with  Big Porch near Downtown and Zoo

Cozy Home with Big Porch near Downtown and Zoo

Omaha NE
Cozy Home with Big Porch near Downtown and Zoo
My Place Hotel - Council Bluffs/Omaha East, IA

My Place Hotel - Council Bluffs/Omaha East, IA

2.5 out of 5
2281 South 35th Street Council Bluffs IA
My Place Hotel - Council Bluffs/Omaha East, IA
The Swim Spa Spot Near Downtown!

The Swim Spa Spot Near Downtown!

Omaha NE
The Swim Spa Spot Near Downtown!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Shopping

For a great shopping experience near Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, visit Thunderbird Plaza, Cornhusker Retail Center, and Cornhusker Pointe, all located 8.0km away. These centers offer a variety of shops with a family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for finding gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant energy at Charles Schwab Field Omaha with thrilling sports events, indulge in cultural performances at the Orpheum Theater, or enjoy live music at Stir Cove for a relaxing evening. Each venue offers a unique blend of entertainment and wellness, just a short distance from the zoo.

Adventure

Experience thrilling go-kart racing at Joe's Karting, located 3.2km from the zoo. Enjoy the scenic Back-to-the-River Trail for an outdoor adventure, 4.8km away. For indoor excitement, visit the Hanscom-Brandeis Indoor Tennis Center, also 3.2km from the zoo.

Nightlife

At Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, enjoy unique nighttime experiences like the Zoo Lights event during the holidays, featuring dazzling light displays. For a more relaxed evening, visit the aquarium's After Hours events, where you can explore exhibits, enjoy live music, and indulge in food and drinks.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

During your visit to Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, Nebraska, explore nearby attractions such as urban parks, historic colleges, and entertainment facilities. Enjoy family-friendly activities and outdoor experiences while discovering other local zoos, riding the Omaha Zoo Railroad, or enjoying free zoo attractions. Make sure to take advantage of various visitor experiences to enhance your trip.

  • Creighton University: Experience the vibrant culture of this historic university located 4.8km from the zoo. Stroll through its beautiful campus, admire the stunning architecture, and soak in the academic atmosphere that fosters creativity and learning.
  • Lauritzen Gardens: Immerse yourself in nature at this enchanting botanical garden, just 1.3km away. With its lush landscapes, blooming flowers, and serene pathways, it's the perfect spot for a romantic stroll or a family outing.
  • The Durham Museum: Discover the rich history of the region at this captivating museum, located 3.2km from the zoo. Explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the culture and heritage of Omaha and the surrounding areas.

Best time to go to Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

The best time to visit Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January23.7°F (-4.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
February26.1°F (-3.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
June73.2°F (22.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July76.1°F (24.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August74.5°F (23.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September68.2°F (20.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November41.4°F (5.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December29.1°F (-1.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically November to January) for more affordable package holidays to Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

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