Dickerson Park Zoo’s 55 acres are home to hundreds of animals, representing habitats in Africa, Tropical Asia, South America, Australia and Missouri. Favorites include Asian elephants, tigers, giraffes and river otters. Stand eye-to-eye with giraffes on an elevated feeding/viewing deck; crackers can be purchased to feed these magnificent animals. The Diversity of Life exhibits showcase reptiles and amphibians from around the world that share common types of habitats. Tickets: $8; ages 60+ and 3-12, $5.

One of the top zoos in the United States, boasting some of the best African, kangaroo and chimp exhibits. A polar bear exhibit opens in 2010. In fact, this 202-acre park is home to more than 1,000 animals from around the world. The zoo is closed Thanksgiving, December 25 and January 1.

Admission: $11; ages 3-11, $8

Perched on the banks of a slow-moving creek, Lazy L Safari Park is not your typical zoo. Visitors are offered a completely self-guided experience as they walk through the main barn, petting zoo, animal nursery, and park grounds at their own pace. Stroll along the creek while gazing into the fields to watch zebras or antelope. Go on safari and feed the pygmy goats, watch baby animals, peer into the reptile aquariums, or check out the emu eggs in our incubator. You'll find benches for animal watching, a gift shop, a picnic shelter, and a snack shop. Have a picnic alongside our animal friends. Open daily Memorial Day-Labor Day; open weekends only April-May and September-October. Closed November-March. Group tours and private parties are available daily, April-October, with reservations.

Home to hundreds of rare and endangered animals from around the world. Our four mile drive-thru and petting zoo feature more than 50 species and 500 animals, including: monkeys; camels; kangaroos; zebra; large reptiles; tropical birds; antelope; deer; and bison among other animals.

For a one-on-one experience, try our personal tours (advanced booking is required); sure to be a safari you’ll never forget.

We are open every day. You can feed the animals throughout the; feed is available (additional charge). Check our website for special bottle-feeding times.

Located 45-minutes southwest of Branson.

Admission: $15; age 65+, $12; ages 2-12, $10; family rates offered.

This petting zoo is not just for kids; we offer something for everyone. This is the only place in the Lake of the Ozarks area where you can ride a Clydesdale. We have a heated barn and offer wedding packages, plus space for special events such as birthdays and family reunions. Admission is $7 per person. Call or visit us on Facebook for more information. Off Lake Road 5-24 near Laurie.

This world renowned, 90-acre zoo is home to more than 18,000 exotic animals; many are rare and endangered. Penguin and Puffin Coast offers an underwater view of these oceanic birds.

General admission is free. There are fees for some special attractions.

Closed Christmas Day and New Years Day. Check the website to verify hours during holiday periods.

Have your camera ready as you embark on our two-part animal adventure. Experience up-close encounters with all sorts of animals.