Whether you’re looking to occupy the kids for a day or take that special someone out on a date, zoos and aquariums can serve as great outings for all ages.
As of September 2023, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums reports that there are 213 AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums in the United States, which see about 183 million visitors each year. Though zoos and aquariums have often been maligned for keeping animals in captivity, AZA-accredited facilities provide much more than a chance to ogle caged lions or fish in a tank. Visiting one may afford you a valuable opportunity to help your favorite wild animals.
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AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums are committed to promoting species conservation and animal welfare, prioritizing caring for endangered animals and funding initiatives to preserve natural habitats like savannas and rainforests. Buying an entrance ticket (and maybe a souvenir or two) can help support ecological conservation efforts both inside and outside the zoo or aquarium, so you can enjoy your visit knowing that your purchases are going to good use.
Besides showcasing exotic species from faraway locations, zoos and aquariums also often feature restaurants and concession stands, educational programs, and unique activities, making them a great choice for a fun day out.
Of course, certain zoos and aquariums are better than others, standing out among the ranks thanks to their exhibits, high-quality dining options, increased accessibility, and more. To help you plan your next trip, Stacker compiled a list of the best zoos and aquariums in Virginia, according to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor ranks businesses using a combination of metrics, including overall rating, reviews, and number of page views. As a result, a business with a 5/5 overall rating might rank lower than one with a 4/5. Data is as of February 2024. Zoos and aquariums that are AZA-accredited are noted accordingly.
Note: The photos in this article are stock images and do not depict the zoos or aquariums listed.
#14. Infinity Acres Petting Ranch
- Rating: 4.5/5 (10 reviews) - Address: 136 Joppa Road Ridgeway, Virginia - Read more on Tripadvisor
#13. Leesburg Animal Park
- Rating: 4/5 (123 reviews) - Address: 19270 James Monroe Hwy Leesburg, Virginia - Read more on Tripadvisor
#12. SeaQuest Lynchburg
- Rating: 4.5/5 (37 reviews) - Address: 3405 Candlers Mountain Road Lynchburg, Virginia - Read more on Tripadvisor
#11. Natural Bridge Zoo
- Rating: 3.5/5 (329 reviews) - Address: 5784 South Lee Highway Natural Bridge, Virginia - Read more on Tripadvisor
#10. Metro Richmond Zoo
- Rating: 4/5 (281 reviews) - Address: 8300 Beaver Bridge Road Moseley, Virginia - Read more on Tripadvisor
#9. Mill Mountain Zoo
- Rating: 3.5/5 (310 reviews) - Address: Mill Mountain Spur Roanoke, Virginia - Read more on Tripadvisor
#8. Three Lakes Nature Center and Aquarium
- Rating: 4.5/5 (84 reviews) - Read more on Tripadvisor
#7. Nova Wild
- Rating: 4/5 (113 reviews) - Read more on Tripadvisor
#6. Creation Kingdom Zoo
- Rating: 4.5/5 (92 reviews) - Address: 1692 Snowflake Road Gate City, Virginia - Read more on Tripadvisor
#5. Luray Zoo - A Rescue Zoo
- Rating: 4/5 (303 reviews) - Address: 1087 US Highway 211 West Luray, Virginia - Read more on Tripadvisor
#4. Fort Chiswell Animal Park
- Rating: 4.5/5 (103 reviews) - Read more on Tripadvisor
#3. Virginia Zoo
- Rating: 4.5/5 (893 reviews) - Address: 3500 Granby St. Norfolk, Virginia - Read more on Tripadvisor
#2. Virginia Living Museum
- Rating: 4.5/5 (761 reviews) - AZA accredited - Read more on Tripadvisor
#1. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
- Rating: 4.5/5 (3,611 reviews) - Address: 717 General Booth Blvd. Virginia Beach, Virginia - Read more on Tripadvisor
This story features data reporting by Karim Noorani, writing by Cu Fleshman, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 48 states.