We were pleasantly surprised about our experience at this zoo. We went on a nice day in January, the temp was in the low 70's. The temperature makes a difference for a zoo experience, because who wants to walk around anyplace when it's hot?
This zoo has more of a "wildlife" park feel. Many of the animals were separated from the humans with natural barriers such as water or wood poles. It didn't have the penitentiary feel that a traditional zoo has.
There were many animals at this zoo that we have never seen so it was very enjoyable. Plenty of exotic birds, lots of monkeys, and many of the usual zoo favorites. We enjoyed getting close up looks of the rhino, giraffes -loved the up high feeding station- and the white tigers.
The aquarium was fascinating too and I was very impressed for Arizona. I've been to the aquarium in Newport, Oregon, Scripps in San Diego, and a few others, and this one certainly measured up.
Worth a visit with the family. Make sure you get a coupon so you can save a few bucks.