Honolulu Zoo is the official zoo of Honolulu in Hawaii. Nearby Honolulu Zoo, you will find many hotels. During peak times, the zoo will be crowded with people. The zoo has a modern design. It exhibits all kinds of animals from various places around the world including African Savannah, Tropical Forest, and Pacific Islands. There is also a children’s zoo designed for children. The zoo is open from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. It is closed on two-holiday season, which are Christmas and New Year. If you are coming as a family, you can get family pass from the zoo at affordable price. You can get the moonlight pass if you want to explore the nocturnal animals. Nearby the Honolulu Zoo, you will find many tourist attractions such as Diamond Head, Waikiki Aquarium and etc.
The history of the zoo can be traced back to King Kalakaua. King Kalakaua was a king in Hawaii from 1874 – 1891. King Kalakaua leased the land to the public for 30 years so that it can be used as a park. The park called Kapiolani Park covers an area of 300 acre. It was originated managed by the Kapiolani Park Association. The park covers part of an island, marsh and lagoon. In 1877, the park was converted into a zoo. The zoo was opened as a result of the funding from Queen Kapiolani. Several types of plants and animals were imported into the park from San Francisco. The growth of the transportation system around Honolulu Zoo makes it accessible to the tourists. In 1914, Honolulu Zoo came under the administration of the city of Honolulu. A large number of animals were brought into the zoo from 1914 – 1916. Today, you can observe many types of animals at the zoo including lion cubs, camel, chimpanzee, ostriches, giraffe, sea lions, honey bear, African elephant, and etc.
Every year, jazz concerts and dinner parties will be organized at the Honolulu Zoo. The events are organized so that the funds can be raised for the zoo. If you plan to visit the Honolulu Zoo, you should allow at least half a day. Families can participate in the family programs. The nocturnal tour at the zoo is inclusive of pizza and campfire activities for the kids. Children can gaze at the stars with the local astronomers. If you are not staying at the nearby hotel, you can take the Honolulu trolley to reach the zoo.