Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha

The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, Nebraska, stands as an impressive testament to the wonders of the natural world. This sprawling zoo, recognized as one of the best in the United States, offers visitors an extraordinary array of exhibits and experiences, from the dense jungles and deserts to the depths of the world's oceans.

Spanning over 130 acres, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is home to the world's largest indoor desert and nocturnal exhibits, as well as one of North America's largest indoor rainforests. The Lied Jungle is a notable highlight, allowing guests to walk through a lush, simulated rainforest environment complete with waterfalls, exotic plants, and an array of wildlife including monkeys, macaws, and pygmy hippos.

The zoo's Desert Dome is another architectural marvel and the largest glazed geodesic dome in the world, featuring a variety of environments from deserts around the globe. Beneath the dome, visitors can explore the Kingdoms of the Night exhibit, a cavernous space that reverses day and night to showcase the activities of nocturnal animals.

Aquatic enthusiasts will be drawn to the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium, where they can walk through a 70-foot-long shark tunnel and observe sea turtles, stingrays, and a myriad of marine life in a naturalistic setting.

The zoo also features the Hubbard Gorilla Valley and Orangutan Forest, where these great apes can be seen in spacious habitats designed to mimic their natural environments. For families with children, the Owen Sea Lion Pavilion and the Berniece Grewcock Butterfly and Insect Pavilion offer interactive and educational encounters with wildlife.

Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is not only a place for recreation but also a center for conservation and research, participating in breeding programs for endangered species and providing a platform for scientific studies.