Top 3 Best Zoos in America

There's apple pie and fireworks, but is there anything that says wholesome American family fun like a day at the zoo? We think not. So next time your in the States, we're suggesting visiting these favorites from coast to coast, the best zoos in America.

Image by Russ May via Flickr

1. San Diego Zoo- There is no "best zoos" list without the San Diego Zoo on it. In fact, if we had to pick just one, we'd definitely say it is THE best zoo in America. Don't believe us? Take a ride on the Skyfari, the overhead gondola lift that provides aerial views of the 100-acre zoo that hosts some 4,000 animals. Located just north of downtown, you'll have some pristine Californian beaches waiting for you after this best zoo, and fantastic weather year round.

2920 Zoo Drive. Balboa Park, CA. 92112. 619-231-1515. http://www.sandiegozoo.org

2. Central Park Zoo- Iconic implies the kind of greatness that few cities can call themselves that more so than the Big Apple herself, making the Central Park Zoo among the best zoos in America. It may be small in size, taking up just 5 acres of the most famous park in the world -but for the heaviest populated city in the country, that's actually a lot of space. Be sure to brag about seeing the rare snow leopard in one of the few exhibits of its kind in the world at this best zoo. After the zoo, you'll have a choice of things to explore in New York City, a world capitol for fashion, media, and restaurants.

East 64th Street and 5^th Avenue. New York, NY. 10021. 212-439-6500. http://centralparkzoo.com/

3. Disney's Animal Kingdom- Disney has some of the most beloved animal characters, so it was a no-brainer for them to open one of the best zoos in America. Spread over 500 acres at the Walt Disney World Resort, this best zoo is technically an "animal theme park." In reality, it's more like a hyper interactive and entertainment-based zoo. And the African safari ride is about as real as it gets within the boarders. Once you're ready to leave the jungle book, you can return to the animated stuff Disney champions.

505 N. Rainforest Rd., Lake Buena Vista, Fl. 32830. 407-938-3000. http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/animal-kingdom/

By Sally Ho, Contributing Author