This world renowned, 90-acre zoo is home to more than 14,000 exotic animals; many are rare and endangered. At the new McDonnell Polar Bear Point, visitors can go nose-to-nose with a polar bear in this state-of-the-art habitat that includes underwater views. New to the Emerson Children's Zoo are two Tasmanian devils. The Saint Louis Zoo is only one of six U.S. zoos to care for this species. Penguin and Puffin Coast offers an underwater view of these oceanic birds. Sea Lion Sound is a 1.5 acre exhibit right in the heart of the Zoo. Visitors can walk through an underwater tunnel into the seal and sea lions' habitat to see the animals swimming all around them. The First Bank Sea Lion Show (in season) showcases sea lion behavior, animal fun facts and the need for conserving the sea lions' ocean habitat. General admission is free. There are fees for some special attractions. Closed Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Check the website to verify hours during summer and holiday periods.