A favorite summertime activity was started long ago in 1859. The first to entice us, the Philadelphia Zoo.

Most states now have them and we continue to love visiting them. From the unique animals, our favorite sightings, animal interaction; something about animals bring out the child in all of us. We all have our favorite zoo, and following are a few of the top rated zoos from Arizona to around the globe. Our experiences still continue since the 1859 to today in escaping to lands unknown to us.

ARIZONA
Phoenix Zoo, Phoenix, AZ ~ http://phoenixzoo.org
The largest non-profit zoo in the United States, the Phoenix Zoo covers a 125 acre complex with a unique twist - the wide sprawling park allows rollerblades and bicycles. Four long trails cover the native wildlife of Arizona, Africa and more showcasing more than 1,200 animals, and visitors can also visit the touch-tank called Stingray Bay. In 1973, the Phoenix Zoo gained worldwide attention for its Asian Elephant named Ruby who came to the zoo after being in Thailand.

CALIFORNIA
San Diego Zoo, San Diego, CA ~ http://www.sandiegozoo.org
One of the largest zoos in the world with over 4,000 animals and more than 800 species, the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park will provide you with exhibits that are designed around a particular habitat from an African Rain Forest to the Artic Taiga and Tundra. There are exhibits that are in a more “natural” state providing an open air feeling with invisible wires, darkened blinds to view birds, and pools and open-air moats for large mammals. Complete with rolling landscapes of exotic plants, winding pathways and natural exhibits occupying 100 acres along with a safari-style Wild Animal Park on the outskirts (separate admission necessary).

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Washington, DC ~ http://nationalzoo.si.edu/
Founded in 1889 and know as one of the oldest zoos in the United States and commonly known as the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. This Washington, DC landmark is also part of the Smithsonian Institution where admission is free. Here, the 163 acres are easily accessible via the DC metro system, and you will find all-day educational exhibits, activities, and lots of animal viewing.

FLORIDA
Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Orlando FL ~ http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/animal-kingdom
As part of Walt Disney World Resort, the Animal Kingdom is home to 1,7000 animals which represent 250 different species on 500 acres. Here you will find lush landscape, rivers, waterfalls and natural animal exhibits that create an atmosphere of walking through their pristine nature. Take a ride on the Kilimanjaro Safari and witness animal life through the African Savannah Animals and nature or view the wildlife from their rafts. See the 14-story Tree of Life carved with images of over 300 different animals. The rides through the park make is easy to see lots of animals in a shorter time. The park also includes parades, performances and live musical shows.

Lowery Park Zoo, Tampa, FL ~ http://www.lowryparkzoo.com
Lowry Park Zoo is the only zoo in the country with an accredited preschool and kindergarten on-site. Parents magazine voted this zoo as “Best Zoo for Kids” as children are able to interact with the animals. With so many interactions to do from brushing a goat’s fur, feeding birdseed lollipops to parakeets, riding on a llama, a camel, feeding the giraffes, a white rhino, stingrays and walking down paths while kangaroos and wallabies hop in front of them, this zoo is certain to provide fun and education.

Lion Country Safari, West Palm Beach, FL ~ http://www.lioncountrysafari.com
For a unique and altogether different realm of a safari, visit Lion County Safari, the nation’s original open-road animal attraction. Here you enter in your own vehicle and drive over 5 miles of road. During your tour you will see zebras and giraffes roaming freely, while certain animals such as the lions and chimpanzees are contained in fences for your safety. Lion Country Safari also hosts the traditional zoological attractions as well as carnival rides for its visitors.

HAWAII
Waikiki Aquarium, Honolulu, Hawaii ~ http://www.waquarium.org
The Waikiki Aquarium may not be your typical zoo, but this is one too good not to miss. Located next to a living coral reef, the aquarium will bring you face-to-face with colorful tropical fish, reef sharks, living corals, endangered Hawaiian monk seals, sea jellies, squid, octopus and everything else that swims up to meet you. The exhibits are centered around the aquatic life of Hawaii and the tropical Pacific. There are over 2,500 organisms in exhibits representing more than 420 species of aquatic animals, including 201 species of fish and 223 species of invertebrates.

MARYLAND
Maryland Zoo, Baltimore, MD ~ http://www.marylandzoo.org, http://www.aqua.org
Established in 1876 as The Baltimore Zoo, the now named in 2004 as the Maryland Zoo is the third oldest zoo in the country. The 160 plus acres houses more than 1,500 birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles, and represents nearly 200 species. In addition, the zoo has partnered with the National Aquarium in Baltimore with over 16,000 sea creatures.

MINNESOTA
Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley, MN ~ http://www.mnzoo.com
One of the first zoos to organize its animals by their living environment instead of organizing the animals according to their species. The Minnesota Zoo has exhibits that are divided into five themed areas with three themed walking trails and is located in a suburbanizing rural area.

MISSOURI
St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis, MO ~ http://www.stlzoo.org
Visit a zoo that is recognized as a leading zoo in animal management, research, conservation and education and you have the St. Louis Zoo. Admission is free but there are some fees for some of their features such as the Zooline Railroad. This small passenger train encircles the zoo and stops at the more popular attractions.

LOUISIANA
Audubon Zoo, New Orleans, LA ~ http://www.auduboninstitute.org
The Audubon Zoo dates back to the early 20th century and is one of the country’s top ranked zoos offering an exotic mix of animals from around the world. Here you will find natural habitats, lush gardens, resting spots, the mystical Louisiana swamp where you can see the zoo’s famous white alligators. They offer hands-on animal encounters, a large aquarium, and an IMAX Theatre. Note that all exhibits are closed on Mondays.

NEBRASKA
Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, NB ~ http://www.omohazoo.com
To see the largest rainforest in the world, visit this zoos Lied Jungle which opened in 1992 featuring this rainforest which occupies an 80 foot tall building that span 1.5 acres.

NEW YORK
Bronx Zoo, New York, NY ~ http://www.bronxzoo.com
Setting on 265 acres and home to over 4,000 animals, the Bronx Zoo is the largest metropolitan zoo in the country. In addition, this oasis is only a short subway ride from Manhattan and boasts the largest man-made rainforest in the world, with a monorail ensuring accessibility. It’s also the first zoo in the world to teach students from preschoolers to 12th graders with an offering of 20 courses with the material translated into Chinese, Spanish, and African languages, and its curriculum is used in every state and 15 nations. Another win-win reason to visit is that a portion of your admission helps to fund the Wildlife Conservation Society.

OHIO
The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, OH ~ http://cincinnatizoo.org
Opening in 1875, this zoo is the second oldest zoo in the United States with The Reptile House being the oldest zoo building in America, dating back to 1875. The Cincinnati Zoo was unofficially nicknamed “The Sexiest Zoo in America” for its world renowned breeding programs, especially for cheetahs. The zoo hosts a vast collection of endangered species, plants, macaws, Indian rhinos, cheetahs, Brazilian ocelots and Western Lowland gorillas.

Columbus Zoo, Columbus OH ~ http://www.columbuszoo.org
The zoo has continuously been open since 1927 and has its exhibits divided into eight regions of the world with home to 5,00 animals and over 700 species. In addition to the zoo, located just south of the zoo is an 18-hole golf course (Safari Golf Club), a water park (Zoombezi Bay), and an amusement park (Jungle Jack’s Landing). The Columbus Zoo is home to one of the most notable animal experts in the world, Jack Hanna and is home to “Jungle Jack”.

PENNSYLVANIA
The Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, PA ~ http://www.philadelphiazoo.org
Opening in 1875 the Philadelphia Zoo was chartered in March of 1859 making it the oldest zoo in America. With 42 acres to explore and 1,300 animals, this family friendly zoo is a revered historic site celebrating the many years of zoology in the United States. Another first for this zoo is it is the first in the country to “go green”. It has implemented a carbon offset program, “Footprints” which sets standards to make the zoo operation eco-friendly and to counteract global climate change. The zoo also teaches visitors how to participate in the conservation effort through planting trees, recycling and how to use recycled products.


TEXAS
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, Glen Rose, TX ~ http://www.fossilrim.org
This 1,700 acre wildlife center is dedicated to preserving and protecting endangered and threatened species and is accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association. Fossil Rim Wildlife Center features more than a dozen exotic big game species and visitors are able to take a guided tour of the park or do a driving tour on their own. Another perk is that visitors also have overnight lodging and other accommodations available at the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center. (See below for more overnight accommodations at zoos)

Fort Worth Zoo in Fort Worth, TX ~ http://www.fortworthzoo.org
Accredited as “The Top Zoo in the Nation” by Family Life, USA Today and the Los Angeles Time, this zoo was founded in 1909. With more than 500 species from every continent (except Antarctica), this zoo features a special tribute to the native flora and fauna of Texas. Their featured exhibit, Texas Wild, enables visitors to learn about the diverse wildlife of the Lone Star State with a historic look back at the turn-of-the-century Texas in an authentic town recreated from the early 1900’s.

Houston Zoo, Houston, TX ~ http://www.houstonzoo.org
This zoo stands out for its surprisingly modern facilities and it’s exhibits that have been renovated within the past five years. With a couple choices on how you see the park, the Houston Zoo offers you options. You are able to set off on your own or you can make reservations to plan a private tour that will take you beyond the normal visitation parameters and get a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes, watch feedings, see the animal hospital and even see some animal training.

Some worldwide ventures take us to:

AUSTRIA
Tiergarten Schonnbrunn Zoo, Vienna, Austria ~ http://www.zoovienna.at/en/zoo-and-visitors/visitor-information/
Established in 1752 this is the oldest zoo in the world. Centrally located, the Tiergarten Schonnbrunn Zoo has kept its historical charm along with world class ultra modern facilities. With exhibits that are home to nearly 500 species you will most certainly be visiting one of the world’s leading zoos.

CZECH REPUBLIC
Zoo Praha, Prague, Czech Republic ~ http://www.zoopraha.cz/en
As one of the best zoos in Europe, you will be visiting 111 acres and approximately 4,600 animals with 630 different species all on 5 Euros for the day (a great value). With a great diversity of animals, you will also see the Indonesia Jungle and Monkey Island.

FRANCE
The Beauval Zoo, France
Voted one of the 15 most beautiful zoos in the world and is just outside the village of St. Aignan, France. The zoo originally opened in 1980 and houses over 2,000 birds. Ten years later other animals were introduced and the zoo has now grown to over 4,000 animals.

JAPAN
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Nagoya, Japan
This 150 acre zoo dates back to 1937 and offers a complete nature experience. With a botanical garden, an amusement park and a zoo with approximately 550 species, you will find yourself with a day full of fun. This is the largest zoo in Asia and you are now able to see panoramic views of the area with their recently built Higashiyama Sky Tower complete with observation decks and a restaurant 100 meters off the ground.

SINGAPORE
Singapore Zoo, Singapore ~ http://www.zoo.com.sg/
For an open concept and accessible zoo visit this 70 acre rainforest landscape where the animals are kept in large landscaped open air areas that are separated from visitors by hidden barriers. The spectacular beauty of the Singapore Zoo is enhanced with pathways including the hidden barriers to include vegetation, streams, moats and rocks.

SOUTH AFRICA
National Zoological Gardens, Pretoria, South Africa
Better known as the Pretoria Zoo, this National Zoological Gardens is the largest zoo in South Africa with 3,117 animals and the largest inland marine aquarium in the country as well as a reptile park and the third largest collection of exotic trees. They offer and “Adopt an Animal Scheme” that helps provide support for the animal’s food and care for a full year - this also enable you free admittance to the zoo as often as you desire. There are aquarium tours, camping tours (aka - a sleep over) and night tours, which are perfect for spotting owls, elephants, lions and red pandas.

SWITZERLAND
Zoologischer Garten, Basel, Switzerland ~ http://www.zoobasel.ch/
One of the greatest zoos in the world famous for breeding endangered species in captivity. The zoo was established in 1874 and is Switzerland’s largest zoo covering approximately 30 acres and is the second most visited attraction in all of Switzerland. There are more than 6,000 animals including Somolian wild donkeys and dwarf hippopotami.

For the animal in all of us a growing number of zoos are offering some thrilling after dark experiences and even some with overnight stays. The Philadelphia Zoo offering the “Roars and Snores” overnight program to the most popular program of the “Night Flight” where children age five to twelve sleep in the zoo’s tree house. The Houston Zoo offers “Wild Winks” for ages seven and above. Here you will spend the night for a totally unique after hours experience including interactive activities, touchable animals, a pizza dinner, continental breakfast, and free admission to the zoo on the following day. The San Diego Zoo also offers a Safari Sleepover and along with so many other zoos that are now offering these programs.

Be sure to check with your local zoo to see if they offer some after hour experiences for the wild child inside of you.

Photograph by Mark Bodnar  http://www.markbodnar.com/ from http://lionsandtigers.bunchofmonkeys.com/

Memorial Day holiday is the remembrance and commemoration of members of the United States
military who died while serving their country while unofficially, Memorial Weekend brings the tradition that Summertime is here. We fill our weekends with friends and family, barbecues, beaches, swimming, sun and fun.

With so many things to fill our schedules, it’s always a great time to see a parade, visit a barbecue or go to some festivals. Some highlights to enjoy range from small to large and everything in-between with something for everyone and a great way to start the summertime season.

California:  For something a little unusual, check out the Triathlon of the Art World. Arcata’s Kinetic Grand Championship is a race that features bizarre people-powered sculptures. The race takes place in California’s Northern Coast from Arcata to Ferndale over Memorial Day weekend each year, across 42 miles of road, water, sand and mud.  http://kineticgrandchampionship.com/

San Francisco, CA:  A multi-cultural flavor is at this Memorial Day celebration.
San Francisco’s Carnaval ~ where the city’s Mission district is transformed into
a Latin celebration and Grand Carnaval Parade. It’s time to salsa and celebrate.  http://www.carnaval.com/sf/sf_carn.htm and at http://www.sfcatcarnaval.com/

Washington, DC: The National Memorial Day Parade has quickly become a tradition in the nation’s capital since this was made an annual event in 2005. Hundreds of thousand of people show up to watch this parade. The monuments, cemeteries, and memorials of Washington, DC are always worth a visit, but Memorial Day’s especially suited for them. You can look forward to special ceremonies and events like the National Memorial Day Parade, Arlington National Cemetery wreath-laying, and National Memorial Day Concert.  http://www.nationalmemorialdayparade.com/

Atlanta, GA:  Music lovers, the Atlanta Jazz festival (the country’s largest free jazz fest) is celebrating the greats as well as up and coming musicians redefining the genre. http://atlantafestivals.com/

Chicago, IL:  The Windy City boasts the largest and the most historic Memorial Day Parade http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/things_see_do/event_landing/events/mose
/memorial day_parade.html This annual tribute to veterans has been taking place since 1871, drawing more than 10,000 participants who travel down State Street
from Lake to Van Buren. The festivities take place on Saturday and
start at 11am. While you’re there, check out the “Bike the Drive” http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/supporting_narrative/events___
special_events/special_events/mose/bike_chicago.html . One of America’s biggest bike rides gives riders a car-free view of the skyline along Chicago’s Lake Shore Drive.

Westmont, IL:  Red, White and BBQ Festival http://westmontbbq.com/
If you're looking to visit the Midwest, check out the Red, White and BBQ Festival
in Westmont, Illinois. While this one isn't in a huge city, it's still an interesting weekend-long festival with more than just barbecue to look forward to. Visit the carnival with the kids, watch a 3-on-3 soccer tournament or stroll through a dizzying array of food vendors each more delicious than the last. Live music keeps the festival moving, while themed cooking demonstrations teach you everything you need to become a brilliant backyard barbecuer. You can even participate in judging the "People's Choice" contest – and this year's theme is chili.

New Orleans, LA:  If you’re a wine and food lover, New Orleans is just the place for your Memorial Day weekend. The annual New Orleans Wine and Food Experience is featuring 100 of the city’s finest restaurants. The event spotlights the city’s legendary restaurants, local chefs and features delicious local foods http://www.nowfe.com/

Kansas City, MO:  Great American Barbecue Festival (Happening May 20 & 21)
http://www.thinkbbq.com/  Kansas City is home to the Kansas City Barbeque Society, the world's largest organization of its kind, so it's only natural that the area around Kansas City hosts the Great American Barbecue Festival. This year it'll be in Bonner Springs. Kansas City barbecue traditionally includes a wide range of meats, and the contest covers four of them – you'll have your fill of brisket, pork shoulder and more here, served up with a sweet sauce and sides. In addition to the barbecue centerpiece, this festival radiates fun, from live music to carnivals to hot air balloon rides! You can even catch culinary demonstrations if you'd like to master the art of the barbecue yourself.

St. Louis, MO:  Rib America Festival
http://www.ribamerica.com/main/index.php?page=st-louis
In the heart of downtown St. Louis, Missouri, the Rib America Festival celebrates the self-professed "World's Best Ribs". With free early bird admission from Friday through Monday, this is a budget-friendly choice, too, though you'll want to set aside some money for food, drink and festival games! In addition to the barbecue goods you'd expect, you can enjoy fair-style food and games. Live music will be ongoing on stage every day, with both local favorites and some nationally-famous acts. St. Louis barbecue tends to be pork served with a tangy sauce, a Missouri variation all its own from the better-known Kansas City variety

Boulder City, NV:  Best Dam Barbecue Challenge http://www.bestdambarbecue.com/   The Best Dam Barbecue Challenge in Boulder City, Nevada, is so named because Boulder City is where you'll find the Hoover Dam. This challenge pits BBQ enthusiasts from around the country. It's smaller than some festivals, but the barbecue will be just as good – and that means you might actually get the chance to go around and try samples from everyone

Las Vegas, NV:  Looking to let loose? Time to party Las Vegas style at the ‘Love Festival’ at the Palms casino. This three day music event over Memorial Weekend features the best in international DJs. www.thelovefestival.com and more information at http://www.facebook.com/TheLoveFestival?sk=wall

New York, NY:  Manhattan during Memorial Day. The streets are packed for Fleet Week (May 25 to June 2 in 2011), an annual event that brings hundreds of sailors and marines to the city to participate in parades. There are all kinds of activities, from Broadway performances to the famous military Tug of War. For the art lovers, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is open on Memorial Day as part of the special Met Holiday Mondays. http://www.newyorkled.com/nyc_events_Fleet_Week.htm

Austin, TX:  How could you not enjoy a festival of wine and music? The Wine and Music Festival mixes 100% local brew with Texan rock bands. http://www.austinwineandmusicfestival.com/index.html

Bandera, TX:  Memorial Weekend Rodeo and Cook-Off http://www.banderarodeo.com Bandera, also known as the "Cowboy Capital of the World," features a barbecue cook-off as part of its Memorial Weekend Rodeo. If you've never been to a rodeo before, this is a great excuse to start. Have a little cowboy fun watching the bravest of the brave ride bulls, wrestle cattle and more, then stop by the barbecue cook-off where enthusiasts battle to determine the region's best barbecue.

Home Sweet Home
If you’re not traveling, be sure to check out your towns festivities, and stay close to home celebrating with family and friends. Memorial weekend is the second most popular barbecuing holiday after the 4th of July, what would it be without great food? Memorial Day represents the traditional start of the outdoor cooking season. This is the time of year that people are getting their charcoal, filling propane tanks and making plans for cookout season. Whether you will be grilling hamburgers, hotdogs, steaks, chicken, fish, ribs or your favorite recipe, plan ahead so you’re sure to enjoy this wonderful weekend.

Kebabs are a great main dish because you’re basically cooking your main meal all at once. Start off with some appetizers and finger foods while grilling. Pre-make some of your sides the day before such as the traditional potato salad, cole slaw and sliced watermelon. Enjoy desserts of ice-cream, pies, or just about any summertime dessert. While relaxing with family and friends, don’t forget the refreshments. Margaritas, iced tea, sangria, lemonade, or the stand-by beer, will complete your cookout and aide you in a great start to the Summer season. Have a wonderful and safe holiday!