The Oklahoma City Zoo is a wonderful place to explore, connect with nature, and experience the incredible diversity of wildlife. According to Visit OKC, it’s also the city’s “largest and most popular attraction.”
Visiting the zoo is one of the most fulfilling Oklahoma City activities for seniors. A little planning can make the experience even better. Here are some helpful tips and highlights to make the most of your visit!
Senior Travel Tips In OKC: Plan Ahead!
The Oklahoma City Zoo is expansive, so reviewing a zoo map and planning your route is a great idea. Look up the schedule for animal shows, feedings, and special events so you can make sure to catch your favorite attractions.
If you’re visiting in the summer, plan to arrive early in the morning, when it’s cooler and less crowded. For added protection, bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Stay Hydrated, especially in the summer!
Walking through the zoo can be tiring, especially in warm weather. Bring a refillable water bottle and use the water fountains throughout the park.
Look for possible senior discounts. Seniors can often enjoy discounted admission rates. However, it’s best to check the zoo’s website or call ahead to see what discounts are available.
Wear comfortable shoes with orthopedic support. You’ll be on your feet for a good portion of the day, so wear comfortable, supportive shoes to prevent fatigue. There are benches and shaded areas throughout the zoo; take breaks as needed to rest and recharge.
Consider a guided tour to make trip planning easier. A guided tour can provide fascinating insights and help you see all the zoo’s highlights without missing anything.
Remember to ask for assistance! Zoo employees are friendly and always happy to help with directions, accessibility needs, or any other questions you may have.
Must-See Zoo Habitats at Oklahoma City Zoo
The Oklahoma City Zoo is home to incredible animal habitats. Here are some areas that seniors love exploring:
Make sure to check out Expedition Africa, a 12-acre habitat dedicated to African wildlife. Discover an immersive giraffe barn, the Pachyderm Building, and covered pavilions that provide a closer look at eye level. There are also plenty of shaded seating areas as you take in views of Africa’s majestic animals.
Sanctuary Asia is home to the following animals:
- Asian elephants
- Indian rhinos
- Komodo dragons
- Red pandas
The zoo offers plenty of educational opportunities for seniors, including the Inasmuch Elephant Pavilion in Sanctuary Asia. Enjoy an engaging educational presentation, and don’t forget to stop by the Lotus Pavilion for a delicious meal with an Asian-inspired menu.
Oklahoma Trails, Cat Forest, and the Lion Overlook
This next habitat is a favorite of seniors.
Oklahoma Trails’ is a local habitat dedicated to animals native to the state. Discover Oklahoma black bears, prairie dogs, and fascinating nocturnal animals in the Trail Nocturnal Barn.
It’s also a great place to learn about the state’s 11 unique ecosystems!
The Cat Forest is a haven for true cat lovers. This popular habitat features big cats from multiple countries, including tigers, leopards, and jaguars. This attraction has both indoor and outdoor seating and viewing areas for seniors which makes it easier to get an up-close view.
After a walk through the forest, don’t forget to visit the Lion Overlook for a chance to view the zoo’s pride of lions. There are multiple viewing areas to enjoy and a covered patio for a close-up look.
Enjoy a Great Escape
The Oklahoma City Zoo is home to one of the most impressive primate habitats in the country, The Great Escape. Discover chimpanzees, majestic western lowland gorillas, and Sumatran orangutans. This natural habitat features magical waterfalls and lush greenery ideal for photos.
Of course, no visit to the zoo is complete without a walk through the Herpetarium and Wetlands Walkway. It’s home to over 65 habitats. Get an up-close look at turtles, lizards, snakes, and even aquatic life.
The Children’s Zoo is the perfect place for seniors to spend quality time with their grandchildren. The interactive Barnyard provides hands-on experiences with friendly barn animals.
Dining Options Seniors Will Enjoy
After all that exploring, you’ll want to take a break and enjoy a delicious meal. Here are some of the zoo’s best dining spots:
The Canopy is a relaxing café offering fresh salads, sandwiches, and snacks. Stop by Lakeside Taqueria to enjoy flavorful tacos and Mexican cuisine with a scenic view.
Last but not least is Scratch Kitchen which offers a variety of comfort foods and grab-and-go options.
Botanical Gardens: Accessible Attractions Seniors Love
The Oklahoma City Zoo’s botanical gardens are just as impressive as the zoo exhibits! Start with the Bank of Oklahoma’s Dwarf Conifer Garden, an evergreen paradise full of pines, cedars, cypresses, and juniper trees.
You’ll love the cactus garden which showcases desert gems like yuccas, agaves, and prickly pears. The Claire E. Stevens Clocktower Garden is another favorite, featuring a rainbow of tropical plants surrounding a vintage-inspired clocktower.
The Dan Moran Aviary Garden is an active garden perfect for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds. Head over to the Devon Energy English Garden afterward to enjoy a formal garden with senior-friendly walking paths.
Other gardens to see:
- The Discoverer’s Garden is overflowing with seasonal colors, blooming with plants that change colors that change throughout the year
- Don T. Zachritz Azalea Garden is a quiet natural retreat for seniors, overflowing with azaleas, passionflowers, and other richly-colored blooms
- The Howard Family Courtyard, Mary Eddy Jones Garden, and Mediterranean Garden offer more stunning landscapes with unique plant varieties for seniors to explore and enjoy
These spots are perfect for senior field trips and active seniors who love to garden. Take note of plant varieties to plan in your own garden!
Discover Senior Tourism In Oklahoma City
The Oklahoma City Zoo as a senior can be a wonderful experience filled with adventure, learning, and relaxation. With proper planning, comfortable accommodations, and plenty of rest stops along the way, you can make the most of your day.
Morada Lake Hefner understands the importance of such experiences for seniors. Check out our packed social calendar to learn more about our commitment to senior wellness and recreation.
Book a tour or call us today to meet our team!
