Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium Tours

Photo provided by Nebraska Tourism
Henry Doorly Zoo showing marine life and interior views as well as a small group of people
Photo provided by Nebraska Tourism
Henry Doorly Zoo which includes interior views and a garden as well as a small group of people
Henry Doorly Zoo which includes forest scenes 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.

Plan a trip to see Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Harrah's Council Bluffs Hotel & Casino
Magnolia Hotel Omaha
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Central Omaha by IHG

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
The Inn & Suites Omaha near ZOO

The Inn & Suites Omaha near ZOO

2.5 out of 5
2920 South 13th Court, Omaha, NE
The Inn & Suites Omaha near ZOO
BridgePointe Inn & Suites

BridgePointe Inn & Suites

2 out of 5
3619 9th Ave, I-29 & I-80, Council Bluffs, IA
BridgePointe Inn & Suites
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
ZOO Old Market CHI Charles Schwab Field Cozy Downtown House

ZOO Old Market CHI Charles Schwab Field Cozy Downtown House

Omaha
ZOO Old Market CHI Charles Schwab Field Cozy Downtown House
Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs

Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs

4 out of 5
2200 River Road, Council Bluffs, IA
Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs
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
Cozy Home with Big Porch near Downtown and Zoo
Classic 4BR Bowery Hill Gem, Near Top Spots!

Classic 4BR Bowery Hill Gem, Near Top Spots!

Omaha
Classic 4BR Bowery Hill Gem, Near Top Spots!
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

At the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including exploring the impressive aquarium and the unique Desert Dome. Wildlife enthusiasts can experience diverse animal exhibits and participate in engaging photo tours. Birdwatching is also popular, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. Don't forget to check out reviews to enhance your zoo experience.

Shopping

The nearest shopping centers are Thunderbird Plaza, Cornhusker Retail Center, and Cornhusker Pointe, all located 5 miles from Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Each offers a mix of business and family vibes, perfect for finding gifts and souvenirs during your visit.

Recreation

Explore Charles Schwab Field Omaha for an energetic day of sports events, just 3 miles from the zoo. Enjoy live performances at Stir Cove, located 2 miles away, for a vibrant evening of music. For a relaxing round of golf, visit Spring Lake Golf Course, only 0.7 miles away.

Adventure

Explore the scenic Back-to-the River Trail, located 3 miles from the zoo, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For exhilarating karting adventures, visit Joe's Karting, 2 miles away. Additionally, the Hanscom-Brandeis Indoor Tennis Center, also 2 miles away, offers thrilling tennis experiences for active visitors.

Nightlife

After exploring the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, head to the nearby Orpheum Theater and Holland Performing Arts Center for captivating performances that blend culture and entertainment. Both venues, just 2 miles away, offer a romantic atmosphere perfect for a family night out or a memorable date.

*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

When visiting the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, Nebraska, you'll find a variety of attractions that cater to culture lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the urban park, historic college university, and nearby entertainment facilities. Don't miss the chance to discover the wonders of the zoo itself and other local attractions, making your trip both enjoyable and memorable.

  • CHI Health Center Omaha: This vibrant arena offers a variety of entertainment options, from concerts to sporting events. Its family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot for visitors looking to enjoy a lively night out, just 3 miles from the zoo.
  • Creighton University: A beautiful historic campus, Creighton University is not only an educational institution but also a cultural hub. Explore its stunning architecture and take in the rich history of this esteemed university, located 3 miles away.
  • Omaha Children's Museum: Just 2 miles from the zoo, this interactive museum is perfect for families. With hands-on exhibits and engaging activities, children can explore and learn in a fun environment that encourages creativity and curiosity.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

To save money on your trip to Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, consider visiting between November and January for lower prices, especially on Tuesdays. Avoid Saturdays when costs peak. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations by filtering options and combining hotel stays with flights for package deals. Joining the One Key membership can unlock exclusive discounts and earn you OneKeyCash for future bookings. Additionally, explore free activities in the area, and take advantage of public transport for affordable travel around Omaha.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool empowers you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your results by price, starting from the most affordable options. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia