Utah's Hogle Zoo

Reviews

• AR

  Angi Rayl

  Jan 4, 2026
  1.0
  The zoo is great but zoo lights were sadly very disappointing. We went as a family activity and the amount of lights is very under whelming. You can see more lights at the Layton light display and it is free. The zoo charges way too much for what you see and get. Won’t visit zoo lights again.
• SC

  Sue Christensen

  Jan 3, 2026
  3.0
  I love Hogle Zoo. I love supporting its mission. Unfortunately, our Zoolights experience this year was disappointing. My visit three years ago was magical. This year, I was excited to share Zoolights with my children and grandchildren. As we went through the zoo this time, I wondered if they had already taken down most of the lights. I asked a zoo employee, who told me that this was the extent of Zoolights this year. Hogle Zoo, you know you can do better!
• WM

  Worth the Miles

  Dec 30, 2025
  4.0
  Hogle Zoo is a solid regional zoo that delivers a consistently enjoyable experience, though it stops short of top-tier status. The layout is intuitive and manageable, making it easy to see a wide range of animals without feeling overwhelming. Exhibits are generally well designed, prioritizing animal welfare and visibility over spectacle. Several habitats allow for close observation while still feeling respectful of the animals’ space, which enhances the experience. Animal variety is a strength. The zoo offers a good mix of well-known flagship species and smaller or less common animals. Educational signage is clear and approachable, providing useful context without becoming overly academic. It succeeds as both an entertaining and mildly educational outing. The setting along the foothills adds scenic value, and the grounds are well maintained. That said, the elevation changes can make parts of the zoo more physically demanding than flatter zoos, which may be a consideration for some visitors. Amenities are serviceable but unremarkable. Food and seating options are adequate, and while nothing significantly detracts from the visit, these areas do not elevate it either. Crowds can build up during peak times, particularly around the most popular exhibits. Hogle Zoo is absolutely worth a stop if you are in the region and works well as a half-day activity. However, if you are seeking a truly top-tier zoo experience and are willing to travel, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden represents a stronger benchmark. The Cincinnati Zoo offers greater exhibit immersion, denser animal engagement, and a more cohesive, destination-level experience overall. In short, Hogle Zoo excels locally and regionally as a dependable, well-run zoo, but it is not a crown jewel. A worthwhile visit nearby, with better options available for those planning a trip specifically around a zoo experience.
• WH

  William Halvorsen

  Dec 30, 2025
  5.0
  The hogle zoo is always a fantastic place to visit! Lots of variety, with most exhibits being up to date and suitable for captive animals, and any outdated ones actively slated for improvement. The zoo is in a lovely scenic canyon area, with lots of trees, greenery, and a creek going right through. It’s also lovely in the winter, with decorative festive lights and snow on the ground. Any food or merchandise can be pricey, but it goes towards animal care and improving the zoo. My favorite areas are the Asian Highlands and the new Wild Utah exhibit. Not too bad price-wise for a family outing, or even just a solo trip to see some cool animals.
• BJ

  Brittany Hathaway Jeppson

  Dec 27, 2025
  2.0
  This review is of the Hogle Zoo Lights night experience. Sad to say this was a let down for me. A large part of the park is closed off and it’s just walk through of lights on trees and animal shaped lights on fences etc. most of the animals are put away for the night. I enjoyed Ogden 25th street (free), Layton lights (free), and temple square (also free) much more than this. Felt like $20 per adult was a steep ticket price for what you actually get. Save your money and see lights elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions About Utah's Hogle Zoo