Henry Doorly Zoo
I live in South Dakota. I love animals. Therefore, whenever we plan a vacation, the first thing I will inquire about
is, “Is there a zoo nearby?”
A week ago we drove 200 miles south for a two day retreat to one of my favorite places to go in the upper Midwest.
We went to see the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska. Every couple of years we make the trip. It seems that they
are always adding on or upgrading one section or another. I never tire of going there. To me, it is the most
wonderful therapy there is or stress, or the need to break away from it all for a while. Watching the various antics
and activities of the residents that make up this community at the Henry Doorly Zoo just seems to bring a smile to
almost anyone.
At Scott’s Aquarium, you will watch in fascination and awe as you witness all the stingrays, sharps, fish and
tortoises swimming together in one massive arch shaped aquarium that goes up and over your head. Here you will be
able to see what the underside of each reptile looks like. It is here that also, you will see what my favorite part
of any zoo is. It’s the Penguins. In this case, it is the arctic penguins. I could watch them swim and play for
hours. To me they are just so cute.
In the Desert Dome, you will walk through the various kinds of deserts from the different regions of the world. You
cans also see the various kinds of vegetation, plants and birds that inhabit each desert.
Kingdoms of the Nights building is where you will walk through and view all the various creatures from around the
world that are lurking around in the night while most of us are sleeping.
Lied Jungle is in a building that allows you to walk through replicated jungle areas from around the world. Here you
will also have a chance to view the plants, animals and birds that live in the jungle areas.
At Dunhams Bear Canyon you will see black bears and polar bears at play. You may find the black bears swimming and
playing around with each other. The polar bears may be floating on their back holding onto and at times, tossing
their big play balls in the air and catching it. They will, from time to time toss the ball towards the spectators.
I personally think it is a test to see if the spectators are going to blink or jump back.
At different times throughout the day, there are presentations and feedings of the animal by the staff, for the
public to watch and learn.
A tram stops at various places around the zoo. You can either pay for each stop you want to use, or pay one fee and
enjoy the ride. In addition, a steam train follows the tracks around the perimeter of the zoo. You can also purchase
tickets for this ride at various places around the zoo complex.
The Imax Theater is also located on the grounds of the zoo. There are different movies showing at different times of
the year. While we were there the move was called, “The Mystery of the Nile”.
Scheduling special events and picnics is an option as well. For that, you will need to make reservations.
The displays I mentioned in this article are just a very few of the many that are available for your pleasures.
There will be no doubt in anyone’s mind that the Henry Doorly Zoo does truthfully have something for kids of all
ages to enjoy. So, if you live nearby, buy a family pass and enjoy this fabulous zoo year round. Because, well, the
zoo is open year round. Have a great time.
