Day Trips with Toddlers in Phoenix, Arizona: Reid Park Zoo

I know, I know. If you live in Phoenix, Arizona, home to one of the best zoos for children in the world, why would you drive all the way down to Tucson? I thought the same thing until we checked it out for ourselves. Loved it! The vibe is totally different at Reid Park Zoo. Phoenix Zoo: big, famous, 125 acres, overwhelming. Reid Park Zoo: intimate, personal, 17 acres, perfect for toddlers.

We started our day at the giraffe encounter. Feedings take place from 10 - 10:45 a.m. daily. Its $2 extra but my kids live to feed the giraffes. Plus, as an added bonus, no line! Just us, the giraffes and the trainer. Next, we decided to find the polar bear, as Phoenix does not have one. We consulted our map. Be sure to grab one (or several) on your way in; they are pictorial, so even my toddlers can practice being the trip navigators. We learned from the chatty volunteer stationed there that the polar bear's name is Boris. In fact, we learned the names of all the animals because the zoo had friendly volunteers, trainers and zoologists stationed throughout the zoo, all ready and willing to share stories, information and fun tips. It definitely added to our overall experience.

After wandering through the Lee H. Brown Conservation Learning Center to pet a real, live boa constrictor and a lizard with a blue tongue, we came across a fabulous koi pond filled with giant koi, ducks and flamingos. Bring quarters to buy food for them out of the small vending machine. What toddler doesn't love to feed the fish?! You can also watch an animal training demo every day at 11 a.m., ride the train around the zoo ($2 extra) or cool off in their small splash pad. Do not forget to stop at the information booth near the exit before you leave. They have 11x7" posters to color of all the zoo animals in their natural habitats. The cost is .25 cents each or $1.50 for a six pack. That has to be the all-time, best souvenir value, ever! And, what toddler doesn't like to color.

All in all, Reid Park Zoo made for a great family day trip from Phoenix, Arizona. It was very intimate and the level of attentiveness that we received was amazing. The mature landscaping made the 17 acre zoo feel so much larger and had the added benefit of providing tons of needed shade. The zoo probably took 2 or 3 hours, which is perfect for toddlers. Plus they'll sleep the whole way home. You can drive down daily. Reid Park Zoo is open 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. with free parking. Admission is $7 for ages 15 and up, $5 for seniors and $3 for children, 2-14. Call 520/791-4022 for directions or check them out yourself here.