A Guide to Omaha Nebraska's Henry Doorly Zoo

Nebraska families had a grueling winter and now that summer is here they are ecstatic to emerge from hibernation and enjoy the amazing weather. Outdoor parks, barbecues, parties and catching some rays are most likely at the top of this summer's "to do" list, but if Heartland families want a roar of an adventure they must take a trip to "Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo."

While it would be impossible to summarize all the zoo has to offer here are a few exhibits that are definitely places to explore.

"The Berniece Grewcock Butterfly and Insect Pavilion" commenced in May 2008, consists of 14,000 square feet, and is magnificent in design. Guests will tread through the 2,450 square foot "Butterfly Conservatory" which is comprised of stately trees, rock, and water elements. Zoo-goers will make their way through the "Conservation Promenade" via a floating walk-way, spy butterflies and moths going through metamorphosis in the "Chrysalis Hatching Room," and finally stroll along 2,413 square feet containing micro-habitats which house, ants, beetles, cockroaches, centipedes, spiders, scorpions, walking sticks and mantids.

"The Cat Complex" is a whopping 37,000 square foot breeding facility that was opened in 1977 and is home to 38 gorgeous cats. This massive complex has the capacity to retain 100 feline which include three subspecies of Jaguar, Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Clouded Leopard, and North American Puma. Surveying these beautiful creatures is not only exciting but is also a great educational experience.

"Cheetah Valley" opened in 2001 when two male Cheetahs arrived from the San Diego Zoo and in 2004 seven new Cheetahs arrived from their Native South Africa. Cheetahs are not able to climb but are excellent hunters, strong, and absolutely stunning to watch. Guests will be amazed at their striking features, surprised to learn that they can purr but not roar, and taken a back when learning the Cheetah can go from 0 to 64 mph in only six seconds.

"Dairy World" is an $800,000 kid friendly exhibit comprised of a petting zoo, three barn-like structures, a brick plaza, and two large pools which house ducks, waterfowl, and the famous "Henry the Trash-Eating Hippo." In addition to the petting zoo "Dairy World" contains a theater where the "Bancroft Elementary School" kindergarten classes read, write, practice math skills, and learn about science, language, and social studies.

"Desert Dome" is an enormous 84,000 square feet and cost $31.5 Million to construct. This exhibit opened in April 2002 and is the world's largest glazed geodesic indoor desert standing 13 stories tall and is known as a landmark to Omaha natives. "The Desert Dome" highlights plant and animal life from the "Namib Desert of southern Africa," the "Red Center of Australia," and the "Sonoran Desert" of the southwest United States.

If walking grows to be tiring, visitors can hop on the "Locomotive 395-104" which has 6 open-air coaches and one caboose. Cost is $5 for an all day ride pass for ages 3 and up and can be redeemed for a wristband at Omaha Depot or Kenefick Station.

"Sue's Wildlife Carousel" cost $950,000 and opened in April of 1999. Kiddos will marvel at the sparkling lights, be in awe of the 16 fantasy horses, beam at the 14 wild animals, and chuckle at the exotic wildlife characters. The carousel is open Monday through Friday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

These are only a few "must-sees" when visiting the Henry Doorly Omaha Zoo so to learn more about the exhibits, admission, and directions visit www.omahazoo.com.