Zoos, Wildlife Parks, and Preserves, that Support Arizona’s Rich Biodiversity
- Nov 26, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 14, 2025
Arizona offers a diverse array of zoos, aquariums, wildlife parks, and preserves, providing unique opportunities to experience and support the state’s rich biodiversity. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the best animal-related attractions across Arizona:
1. Phoenix Zoo (Phoenix)
As one of the largest non-profit zoos in the United States, the Phoenix Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals, including nearly 400 species. Visitors can explore various exhibits, participate in educational programs, and enjoy family-friendly activities.
2. Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park (Litchfield Park)
This expansive park boasts Arizona’s largest collection of exotic and endangered animals, with over 600 separate species. It features a zoo, aquarium, and safari park, offering daily shows, rides, and interactive experiences.
3. Butterfly Wonderland (Scottsdale)
Home to thousands of butterflies from around the world, Butterfly Wonderland offers an immersive rainforest experience. The facility also features a 3D theater, reptile exhibit, and honeybee extravaganza.
4. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (Tucson)
This unique institution combines a zoo, aquarium, botanical garden, natural history museum, and art gallery. It focuses on the natural history, plants, and animals of the Sonoran Desert region.
5. Reid Park Zoo (Tucson)
Reid Park Zoo spans 24 acres and is home to hundreds of animals from around the world. The zoo offers educational programs, special events, and interactive exhibits.
6. Bearizona Wildlife Park (Williams)
Located near Flagstaff, Bearizona allows visitors to drive through habitats of North American animals and walk through exhibits featuring smaller animals. The park emphasizes conservation and education.
7. Out of Africa Wildlife Park (Camp Verde)
This park offers authentic safari experiences, allowing visitors to observe African wildlife in spacious habitats. The park also features educational shows and interactive experiences.
8. Navajo Nation Zoo and Botanical Park (Window Rock)
The only Native American-owned-and-operated zoo in the U.S., it focuses on animals native to the Navajo Nation and the Southwest. The zoo serves as a sanctuary for injured or orphaned wildlife.
9. Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve (Patagonia)
Managed by The Nature Conservancy, this preserve is renowned for its birdwatching opportunities, including numerous hummingbird species. It’s a haven for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.
10. Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center (Scottsdale)
This center rescues and rehabilitates native wildlife, providing sanctuary for animals that cannot be released back into the wild. They offer educational tours to promote wildlife conservation.
11. Arizona Game and Fish Department Wildlife Centers
The department operates several wildlife centers focused on the rehabilitation and conservation of Arizona’s native species, including efforts to protect the Mexican gray wolf.
12. Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary (Prescott)
A non-profit wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the conservation and protection of native and exotic animals, offering educational programs and up-close animal experiences.
13. Keepers of the Wild Nature Park (Valentine)
A sanctuary for rescued exotic and wild animals, providing a safe haven and promoting education about animal welfare and conservation.
14. Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary (Scottsdale)
Dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of native and non-native reptiles, offering educational programs and guided tours.
These institutions play vital roles in education, conservation and the rehabilitation of Arizona’s diverse wildlife. Visiting them offers enriching experiences and supports their ongoing efforts to protect and preserve the state’s natural heritage.
