I have been to zoos all over the country and all of them in the area as well and I have to say this is the best one I have ever been to. It is a bit pricey, but you can get half off from coupons in Hickman's eggs, so that helps considerably. You will literally spend all day here taking everything in, so prepare accordingly. They have great diversity of animals and often times you will be closer to them than you have ever been. Most of the animals are upbeat and seem happy which unfortunately is not the case with some zoos. There are the usual money traps such as concessions and small rides, but for some reason they don't seem so aggressive, maybe because they take a back seat to the awesome exhibits. I can't recall my kids asking me for anything once, which is very rare at a place like this. The aquarium is just as good as any I have been to. You have a chance to pet the stingray which if I am not mistaken is an additional charge at the Phoenix zoo. You can also feed some of the animals such as the giraffes by purchasing food from machines for a quarter (this also costs a lot more at Phoenix zoo). I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys zoos. It is an experience you will not forget.