The Jackson Mississippi Zoo is a fun place to visit with friends and family. Featuring an abundance of native and exotic animals the zoo is one of the finest in the south. The history of the Jackson Zoo dates back to 1916 when the city acquired almost 80 acres of land for $36,000 that was completely undeveloped. By 1919 Jackson Mississippi attractions at the city zoo entailed a few firemen's pets, a handful of native species including deer and alligators and a cage of rabbits which were all kept in the downtown fire station.

From 1921 through to the early 1960's not much happened with the zoo but that changed in 1964. The varied collection of animals turned into a scientific based and well-organized collection under the direction of Robert Wagner. Through the 1990's various grants and funds were allotted to the zoo and upkeep and renovation helped make it a favorite of Jackson Mississippi attractions. The zoo is now a contemporary facility with state-of-the-art enclosures and habitats for all the animals.

In current day the zoo is continuously outdoing itself in research, education and interactive exhibits. As a self proclaimed "living classroom" the Jackson Mississippi Zoo sees over 200,00 visitors every year with almost half directly from the area. 120 species of animals abound at the Jackson Zoo with almost 800 animals to date including Snow Leopards, African Elephants, Gopher Tortoises, Spider Monkeys and more.

Some of the favorites at the Jackson Mississippi Zoo include the monkey castle with surrounding moat, the Mississippi-themed displays including black bears, otters and panthers and the incredible African Elephants. With 90% of the visitors being children under the age of 12 the Kids Corner is a big hit. Zoo's School Group Scavenger Hunt sees school kids wiling away fun afternoons on the hunt with four exciting and different versions.

The Gibbon exhibit is always a hit with primates flying around the enclosures in a frenzy of activity. The American Flamingos are also a treat to see with their bright, exotic colors and the reptile and tarantula exhibits feature creatures normally too scary to get near! The usual favorites can also be found at the Jackson Zoo including majestic Giraffes, exotic Zebras, the ever-loved Hippos and animated Chimps.

Jackson Mississippi attractions at the zoo can be seen year-round from 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday through to Sunday with the last tickets available at 4:00pm. The Jackson Mississippi Zoo is closed on Christmas Day only and also some days when Mississippi weather is too extreme. Adult admission is $6.00, seniors tickets are $5.40, tickets for kids 2-12 are $3.00 and children under 2 years of age get in free. Parking remains at $2.00 but make sure to check all rates before going. Other events such as zoo tours, Jackson Zoo "sleepovers" and behind-the-scenes tours are also popular. Dining is available at zoo restaurants and a variety of concession stands.

The Jackson Zoo works closely with the U.S. Congress and other government agencies through international conservation efforts, animal welfare legislation and regulations andwildlife conservation in the field. Education and research initiatives focus on animal husbandry and care, breeding and transportation and make it one of the most accredited zoos in the nation.

The Jackson Zoo provides great family fun things to do at affordable rates. Leave your Jackson hotel and head over to the zoo for a full day of fun. If in the area in October don't miss the Mississippi State Fair, another great family outing during a visit. The many exciting and fun things to take when in Jackson will fill in a vacation itinerary quickly so make sure to plan well ahead so as not to miss and great Jackson Mississippi attractions.