knoxville zoological gardens

First of all I understand writing this review that we visited the zoo in the "off" season that is why gave it an average rating and not a poor rating. Our visit was 3/12/15. This zoo really does have great potential. But it was far from the "amazing" time we were expecting. For being in the "off" season and most all of the exhibits being closed the price of $20 a person plus $5 parking was considered a rip off. We did a lot of walking and habitat after habitat no animals. The elephants and the giraffes were out but of course on the opposite side of viewing. The gorillas were not outside but in a locked "garage" looking building. The monkeys were nowhere to be seen. I would understand if the weather was cold but it was 72 out during our visit. The animals that were inside we had so much trouble seeing them with the glass being dirty and scratched up. The glare of the sun was also pretty bad. I'm hoping that during the spring and summer this place is better. If you are going to have all of the exhibits closed and pretty much have customers utilize this place as a walking trail you should charge at least 1/2 price and include parking. Also, you should post daily what is going to be closed so your customers do not drive 2 hours to visit your zoo.

We have taken our daughter several times as well as she has gone with school and church groups. Each visit was a thrill and exciting. If it is hot out, only suggestion, animals like to stay cool, they will stay in their houses. A morning, cooler day, is best for the animals. Plus drink plenty of fluids if it is a hot day. Enjoy!

Great Zoo with many things to do. Fun for the whole family and very educational. The lay out is very well thought out and the variety of animals was surprisingly good. All employees were courteous. It is also a good value.

I have been going to the Knoxville Zoo for over 20 years and am always finding something new to experience and see. The zoo has gone through many changes in the years I have been going such as the polar bears, sea lions, hippos, brown bear, baboons and the overhaul of completely changing the entrance location, the addition of animal encounters and the amazing improvements to the red panda village. The point being of all of those changes the zoo is always trying to create a better experience for zoo guests while still keeping the animals needs as a first priority. People seem to complain on TP about animal cages being empty or saying "animal off exhibit" some of those are due to the staff creating a better habitat or making sure that the animal is in good care- we as zoo guests are not there to DEMAND to see animals no matter the cost (possibly the animals health or psyche) we are there to enjoy watching an animal who is happy and healthy. As for the complaints on TP for the cost of admission- the price of admission is posted online- the cost should not be a surprise to any guest. Also the zoo frequently does promotions such as free admission with can goods or just this month of February they are having bogo free tickets. I'm sure the zoo wants as many guests as possible to get to enjoy the zoo; however, we all should understand that the Knoxville Zoo relies heavily on admission to keep the zoo going and feeding the countless animals. I personally have a zoo membership and always will; I feel it is great entertainment for the price. The regular adult admission price is $20, this can be an entire day of entertainment where people spend $10 for just 2 hours of entertainment on a movie ticket and never complain- at the zoo you are getting exercise, learning about animals and connecting with nature.I look forward to all of the upcoming zoo improvements and seeing how the zoo will evolve in the years to come.

The Knoxville zoo is reasonably-priced and educational. We are always impressed with the variety of animals and the cleanliness of the park. When available, there are camel rides and animal encounters. In the spring/summer of 2015, we're expecting two new baby gorillas!

went to zoo, with 2 daughters, and 1 granddaughter, 2 grandsons. had the best time, had to go on scooter, because cannot walk. very easy to get around

If you have been to Audubon zoo or the San Diego zoo it will be a tremendous let down. It is good for small children. It is inexpensive. I think there are a few times s year when it is free with can goods donations.

My grandchildren live in West Tennessee and every summer plan a trip to the Knoxville Zoo because it is so kid-friendly and laid out so well. They've been to other zoos, but this is their favorite by far.

The once small zoo has now expanded and has many wonderful exhibits. From birds and butterflies, to the unique red panda and river otters. Feed the giraffes! I was very impressed for the size of Knoxville to have such a great zoo. Some hilly walking, but all smooth and paved. Children of all ages would enjoy it!

Love the educational animal displays and good enclosures. This zoo has done a nice job and i highly recommend

A beautifully kept zoo! One of my favorites! Reasonable priced. Easy to maneuver. A fun day for all, old and young.

We've been members here for years. We love our local zoo and all of the improvements they've made throughout the years. Staff is friendly and lots of animals to see. I would highly recommend the zoo!

Great outing if you like animals or have children along. My favorite is the bear habitat. But there are many other neat animals to visit. New plans are coming soon to make a tiger habitat where the rhinos are located now. Can't wait! Don't miss the sloth either. Fascinating for all ages.

What an enjoyable visit! The zoo was clean and so great for my young toddler. The food was amazing! The new fries and BBQ was perfect for a Tennessee zoo, and the staff was very friendly and accomodating. Though it was too cold for the splash pad, we have been in the past and it was my son's favorite!! The exhibits are informative and interesting. What a great visit and great value for our money!

I get that its January but the website said currently only two animals were not on exhibit then once we get there there's a lot more.. Overall it was a good trip though! Staff are friendly, and place seemed clean. Some of the prices are ridiculous (like any tourist area I guess) It is hard to get pictures in the winter time due to everything being into enclosed areas you mostly get a glare due to the humidity. But I would definitely go back in the spring! Can't complain for buy one get one free tickets