"4"^^ . . . "62"^^ . "68"^^ . . "43"^^ . "2016-02-07T00:00:00"^^ . "Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium (WWZA) is a Zoo/Aquarium/Theme Park located about 30 minutes from Phoenix. Despite it being smaller than the Phoenix Zoo (95-acres vs 125-acres) the layout of WWZA feels more open and inviting. I honestly didn't think it was going to be that great, but they were open on Thanksgiving, and it felt like something to do. We had a lot of fun because it had a lot of interactive aspects, and it just felt like you were that much closer to the animals than most other zoos--which makes for great picture opportunities! \n\nAdmission (as of Feb '16):\nAdult (13+): $37.00 +tax\nChild (3 - 12): $16.00 +tax\n2 & Under: Free\n\nSpecial Evening Admission to Aquarium Only (After 5:00 p.m.) \nAdult (13+): $16.99 +tax\nChild (3 - 12): $8.99 +tax\n2 & Under: Free\n\nThey also have senior discounts, AAA, group discounts and -because I'm a swell guy- here a link to a $5-off coupon: http://www.wildlifeworld.com/coupons/\n\nHighlights:\n\n-Animal feeding stations! Feed the Ducks, Giraffes and Petting Zoo for 50\u00A2; Seals for $5 and the Lory Parrots are free with admission. The Giraffes and Lories are a *Must Do*--especially if you have young kids!\n\n-Dillion's KC BBQ (http://goo.gl/ylw4PD) is attached right to the Aquarium, and has some great seating to view the Shark Tank if you sit inside. The also serve up some pretty decent Q, as well.\n\n-The 15-acre Safari Park (that you can take a train ride through) was really well put together and lots of fun. This exhibit really put you almost in the cage with the animals.\n\n-Dragon World which featured lots of really cool Crocs, Gators, Snakes and much more! \n\n-180,000 Gallon tank Aquarium that's the only public Aquarium between San Diego and Albuquerque.\n\n-With their recent addition of three California Sea Lions, this is the only place in AZ that you can see Marine Mammals. \n\nThe WWZA just opened their brand-new 15-acre section titled \"Adventure Land\" on Feb 1, 2016. This was still being built when I visited, so I'll be sure to check it out next time. Regardless, the WWZA is a fun and entertaining way to spend the day with your family. If you're visiting Phoenix area and want to visit a zoo, I highly recommend skipping the Phoenix Zoo and taking the short ride here to WWZA."^^ .