Metro Richmond Zoo

My opinion is that this is an awful place. I had to leave after about a half hour because I thought the conditions in which the animals were kept was deplorable. This "zoo" is a for-profit venture and NOT accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. I don't feel people should go because our admission dollars are only continuing the cycle for these poor animals. It was clear that the owners have this facility for entertainment, not conservation or education. If we seriously want to do a zoo photography shoot, I think it would be worth the time to explore one of the zoos that is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. You can search that list here: http://www.aza.org/findzooaquarium/ Examples: There were tropical birds out in 40 degree weather shivering this morning. Three monkeys kept on an island, with inadequate shelter, huddled together to keep warm, in 40 degree weather. Said island was surrounded by dirty water. A prairie dog with an abscess on it's neck and an infected foot. All three tigers (including two white tigers, which aren't even found in nature) were pacing one side of their cage, a documented sign of stress in animals. Awful. more

My husband is military so we've lived in many places and been to lots of zoos with the kids. This was, hands down and by far, the filthiest and saddest zoo I've ever seen. The habitats were too small and dirty for many of the animals. I didn't see water or shade (in this heat and humidity) for many of them. In my opinion, it's animal cruelty! (I'm only giving it one star because I have to in order for this to be seen.) Very, very heart breaking. more

The metro richmond zoo is a good place to be with a family on a holiday. Though it is a small zoo. There are lot of animals but the giraffes are the main attractions. You cannot expect this to be of other national parks or zoos. It is good for kids who will not spend time in a big zoo. The bad part is the zoo is closed on Sundays and national holidays. more

This is a GREAT place for a family trip! We just went here last weekend, and the zoo has changed tremendously in the 2 years since we had been there last. There were many new exhibits and animals, as well as a new Safari Skyride (an additional $3 over the cost of admission to the zoo). The price to get in is very reasonable- only $7.75 or so for adults and $5.75 for kids. Definitely one of the cheaper family day trips in Richmond! If the zoo keeps growing like it is, it will be an even better example of what a city zoo should be like (even though it isn't very close to the city of Richmond itself!) more

Metro Richmond Zoo is not big but has a lot of fun. You can see variety animals here. Since it is smaller, you can just walk around very quickly. So I usually go with my family after lunch and spend a whole afternoon there. Its a great place to go. more

The Metro Richmond Zoo's claim to fame is the opportunity to feed the giraffes. You can feed alot of the animals there but the giraffes are the main attraction. You walk up on a bridge and the giraffes will lick the food out of your hand with their long tongues. Kids love this. It is a small zoo. Don't go expecting the likes of the National Zoo or you will be sorely disappointed. It is good for toddlers and preschoolers who would tire out at an expansive zoo. more

The Metro Richmond Zoo is located in Western Chesterfield County off of Route 360.It is a great place for kids and adults alike.The zoo has monkeys,tigers,lions,cheetahs,birds,and snakes, just to name a few.It has really expanded over the years.They also have a sky safari ride.They have a large area of picnic tables, if you want to bring your lunch.It is great for a family or schol trip. more

This zoo is in Chesterfield county just off Hull St. They have a lot of different animals and are a great family trip. The giraffes are very friendly; they eat out of your hand and one of the orangutans will smile for your camera. They have a petting zoo with sheep, goats, and other farm type animals. A new walkway is open through the wood with views of deer and other animals. They have a bat house that can be fascinating or scary for little kids. There are different snack areas and picnic tables available. Also there is a sky ride, but we've never done that. At Christmas they have an awesome free reenactment of the Christmas story with the wise men, angels, camels and baby Jesus! more