FIRST & OLDEST Zoo in the Southwestern United States
Posted by: 
hamquilter
N 35° 31.370 W 097° 28.382
14S E 638451 N 3932097
Established in 1904, three years before Oklahoma Statehood, this is a top-rated zoological park, offering exhibits and educational events, as well as a beautifully landscaped site to enjoy.
Waymark Code: WMDKDG
Location: Oklahoma, United States
Date Posted: 01/25/2012
Views: 5
The Oklahoma City Zoo was first established in what was known as Wheeler Park, on the N. Canadian River in Oklahoma City. It began with the donation of a whitetail deer which was enjoyed by the local community. The original site was used for many recreational activities, and little by little, animals were acquired to build the zoo.
Because the Wheeler Park area was prone to flooding, and after numerous disastrous floods and the risk to citizens and animals alike, the zoo was moved to 56 acres at Lincoln Park, in a rustic, wooded area next to Northeast Lake. Its official opening at the new location was June 7, 1924.
A metal plaque, dedicated by the Oklahoma Historic Society, is mounted on a wooden post east of the "Judy" (elephant) memorial. It sits in the landscaping along a walkway. It reads:
OKLAHOMA CITY ZOO
The first and oldest zoo in the
Southwestern United States
Established 1904 in Wheeler Park
destroyed by the Great Flood of 1923 and
then moved to Lincoln Park
Oklahoma Historic Society.
Over the years, the zoo became a community project. Many of the new animals were purchased after children's fundraising events, and naming the new animals was a citywide enjoyment. Some of the earlier animals became celebrities, riding in parades, used in advertising materials, and some were trained to perform at the zoo. Luna and Judy the elephants, Barbecue Bear, Carmichael the polar bear, Bill the chimpanzee and Leapy the Leopard were household names.
Today, the zoo is beautifully landscaped with winding pathways throughout the outdoor animal habitats. Aviaries, a herpetarium, the Great Escape gorilla house, and the new ZooZeum building are only a few of the indoor attractions. There are restaurants, a carousel, souvenir vending machines, a children's petting zoo, as well as many scheduled educational events. For those who enjoy the scenery, there is a large lake with fountain, botanical gardens, sculptures and beautiful landscaping.
The zoo is open every day from 9:00-5:00, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Days. Admission fees are reasonable, with free parking.
Adults (ages 12-64): $8
Kids (ages 3-11): $5
Seniors (ages 65 and older): $5
Children two and under: FREE
Military Discount: 50% discount to members of the military, their spouse and up to five dependents.