Top 5 Zoos in USA, Basic Newswriting, 11/23

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!

            And penguins, and flamingos, and lions, and peacocks, and giraffes, and monkeys… and so much more!  No matter the time of year, though the summer seems to be most preferred, a visit to a local, or distant, zoo is a favorite of many.  However, not all zoos are the same.  There are zoos with animals, and zoos with animals and flowers, and zoos with replicas of towns, and zoos with trains, and zoos with amusement parks.  But one thing it seems every zoo shares– and must share – is the abundance of animals and many different species.  Whatever kind of animal fan, or even not so much an animal fan, there is certainly a zoo that will peak your interest.  The Top 5 Zoos in America, as listed by TravelGrove.com, are sure to provide a day of entertainment, fun and learning without disappointment.

-       Fort Worth Zoo, Fort Worth, TX:

This zoo has gained recognition for the wonderful living conditions provided for the animals – all 350 species of them, which range from all continents (except for Antarctica.)!  Also, considering everything is bigger in Texas, it also provides the opportunity to learn about plants and animals native to Texas and to explore a reconstructed town depicting the early 1900s.

-       Phoenix Zoo, Phoenix, Arizona:

This zoo is not only home to a broad range of animals – over 1200, that is – but it also covers a whopping 125 acres.  While the animals are, of course, the center of attention (such as the African lion and the baboon, without forgetting the Aldabra tortoise), there is also a Safari Train that travels the entire grounds.  Also, for a bit more excitement, visitors can also enjoy a show entitled “Wild About Animals.”

-       Columbus Zoo, Columbus, Ohio:

When visiting this zoo you will also be able to cross another to-do off of your list, as this holding the title of the oldest and largest zoo.  With it being the largest zoo, it is divided into eight regions, decided upon by which animals are native to certain areas.  In order to tour these regions, a guest can hope aboard a train or a boat.  Another perk to this 5,000 animal zoo is the amusement park, water park and golf course on site for visitors to enjoy.

-       Lion Country Safari, West Palm Beach, Florida:

While this is not an average ‘zoo,’ per say, that does not mean it is lacking in any of the excitement.  Those who venture to Lion Country are able to drive their own car approximately four miles through to view zebras and giraffes in their natural territory.  Of course, it can’t be called Lion Country without lions – those are able to be seen behind the safety of fences that cannot be crossed.  Also, those who go are able to feed some of the animals, for a small fee.

-       San Diego Zoo, San Diego, California:

This zoo is frequently found at the top of many “best of” lists for the United States, while it is also the most modern zoo.  Here, the over 4,000 animals and 880 species are not held behind bars, fences, or in cages, but wander openly.  This zoo is also widely known for its Giant Panda.

            So, next time you’re planning that summer – or spring, or winter, or fall – vacation for the family or friends, don’t forget to add one of these zoos to your list.  Not to mention, that now you can tell everyone all the exciting facts you have learned about them, which are sure to impress. They weren’t rated the top five in the United Sates for nothing!