While we stayed at Jacques Rolling Wheels DIY, we had the opportunity to explore the region. One trip we made was utilizing our AZA membership and touring the Dickerson Zoo in Springfield, MO.
This amazing zoo is more than just a zoo. Dickerson zoo hosts a number of classes and outreach programs, an animal hospital, and even a raptor rehabilitation center.
Of course, This is still primarily a zoo with exhibits ranging around the globe. One activity that we all enjoyed was feeding the giraffes! Everyone has seen these amazing animals on TV, but it does nothing to showcase the actual size of these majestic creatures. For just $3 we were given a handful of romaine lettuce leaves to feed the giraffes at a head-height platform. It was money well spent!
The zoo was very kid-friendly, with wide open viewing areas and lots of touchable items for kids to interact with.
So many butterfly wings to wear!
Other animals we got to see!
Other attractions the zoo had that were closed when we visited were a train ride that toured most of the zoo as well as guided tours. Additionally, some animals were off-exhibit due to the weather, but that didn’t stop us from having a great time! So if you find yourself in Springfield, Missouri, why not give the Dickerson Zoo a try?