Spanning over 130 acres, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is home to over 960 animal species, including those in the African Grasslands Exhibit. This $73 million exhibit opened in 2016 and is covered with kopjes, acacia-like trees, and grasses. It also includes 25 new structures and buildings that blend into the landscape, including the Elephant Family Headquarters. This amazing 30,000-square-foot habitat is the largest of its kind in North America. 

The outdoor section is perfect for the zoo’s zebras and African elephants. They also have lots of fun enrichment activities to keep them entertained, like baskets that intermittently drop hay from the ceiling and a wall that opens up with treats. The African elephants also have a whopping 150,000-gallon pool, with water ranging from 2 inches to 5 feet deep. 

Two adorable baby elephants — Eugenia and Sonny — were born at the Omaha Zoo just last year. In addition, a third female elephant is currently pregnant and will likely give birth to a new baby in March 2023!

Best times to visit Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium: 

If you come in the summer, it’s best to arrive early in the day or later in the afternoon when it’s cooler and there are fewer crowds. You can also head to the air-conditioned indoor exhibits to cool off, like Gorilla  Valley, the Aquarium, and Kingdoms of the Night.  
It’s much colder if you come during the winter, but many visitors say this is their favorite time to visit the zoo! The animals tend to be much more active, there are many heated indoor exhibits to enjoy, and there are definitely fewer crowds.