Situated in Overton Park, the Memphis Zoo has been a city fixture for more than a century. Often named one of the top-rated zoos in the country, it’s among the few facilities on the continent with giant pandas—the most popular exhibit at any zoo lucky enough to house them. YaYa and LeLe attract big crowds as they cavort in their habitat, designed to mimic their home region in China. In addition to the pandas, the zoo features many other habitats filled with exotic animals, including one of the largest collections of hippos outside Africa. Trained naturalists also present shows throughout the day, offering the chance to get up close and personal with the animals, chat with the zookeepers, or just watch the sea lions show off their tricks.
