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Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo
Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to the conservation of animals and their habitats. The zoo is also accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
The zoo offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages. These programs teach visitors about the animals at the zoo, as well as the importance of conservation.
The zoo also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as Boo at the Zoo, Easter Eggstravaganza, and Wet’N’Wild.
Address:
1405 Bernstein Park Dr, Monroe, LA 71202, United States.
Hours of Operation:
- Monday 10 am–5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am–5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am–5 pm
- Thursday 10 am–5 pm
- Friday 10 am–5 pm
- Saturday 10 am–5 pm
- Sunday 10 am–5 pm
Admission Fees:
- Adults: $6.00
- Seniors (65+): $4.50
- Children (3-12): $4.50
- Children under 2: Free
- Groups of 10 or more: $5.00 per person
- Military with ID: $5.00 per person
Types of Animals:
- Mammals: Lions, tigers, bears, elephants, giraffes, zebras, bison, elk, baboons, gibbons, and many more
- Birds: Eagles, hawks, owls, parrots, macaws, toucans, and many more
- Reptiles: Snakes, lizards, turtles, crocodiles, and alligators
- Amphibians: Frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts
- Fish: Sharks, rays, eels, and many more.
Things to Do:
- Train ride: Take a scenic train ride through the zoo and see some of the animals from a different perspective.
- Safari boat ride: Take a boat ride through the zoo’s swamp exhibit and see alligators, turtles, and other animals in their natural habitat.
- Zooasis Splash Pad: Cool off on a hot day at the zoo’s splash pad.
- Playground: Let the kids burn off some energy at the zoo’s playground.
- Petting zoo: Get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s friendlier animals at the petting zoo.
- Hall of Small: Learn about insects and other small animals at the zoo’s interactive exhibit.
- Greenhouse: Explore the zoo’s greenhouse and see a variety of plants and flowers from all over the world.
Things to Remember:
- The best time to visit the zoo is during the cooler months (October-April) when the animals are more active.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and water, especially if you are visiting during the summer months.
- Be sure to check the zoo’s website or social media pages for special events and programs.
How to Get There:
- Car:Â The zoo is located just off of Interstate 20. Take Exit 130 and follow the signs to the zoo.
- Bus:Â The Monroe Transit System offers bus service to the zoo. Take Route 1 and get off at the Bernstein Park Dr stop.
- Taxi:Â There are several taxi companies that operate in Monroe. To get to the zoo, simply tell the taxi driver the address or show them the zoo’s website on your phone.
Add Review
Kira McGee
in the last weekThe grounds of the zoo are beautiful. Large established trees and beautiful flowers. There were some areas that looked dated, and some of the animal cages were too small or deteriorating. We enjoyed the animals we were able to see, and it seems that improvements are on the horizon as they had many areas roped off and under construction. Excited to come back and see what it will look like after the renovations.
Ammie Stewart
a month agoThis GEM, smaller zoo, is nestled somewhat in a residential area. I was wonderfully surprised once I entered. The zoo safari boat ride is a MUST do!!! It was a 20-minute guided tour. The young man driving the boat was very knowledgeable about the animals we saw. He answered all questions that were asked. Walking around looking at the animals in their habitats was typical. There is a larger splash area for children to get wet. I was DISAPPOINTED that the train wasn't running due to maintenance. I was looking forward to the ride. Even though I drove 2 hours for the visit, I would definitely visit again. However, I will call 1st to make sure the train is scheduled to run .
Shelton Matthews
2 months agoHad a great time with my grandkids, ages 23, 19, and13. Had not been to the Monroe zoo in a long time. The boat ride was awesome highly reccomend to see more animals. The narrator did a great job with history of the animals n zoo.
Kyle Bartolucci
a month agogreat prices. do the boat ride first, he tells u all the stuff u need to know, then walk around. train is a quick ride thru zoo no info while moving.
Travis Bracken
a year agoWe were in town for a conference and decided to visit. We were blown away with the zoo. You can tell that the staff has been hard at work and it shows. My 12 year old son was with me and kept commenting how great it was. The train and boat ride is a MUST!