For residents of Ammon, ID, and the surrounding Bonneville County, world-class wildlife isn’t a long-haul flight away—it’s just a ten-minute drive down Sunnyside Road. The Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park has earned its reputation as “the best little zoo in the west,” offering an intimate, educational, and conservation-focused experience that rivals much larger metropolitan facilities.
Spanning over 7 developed acres within the historic 84-acre Tautphaus Park, the zoo provides a lush, shaded sanctuary where families can connect with over 330 animals representing 120 species from six continents.
A Global Safari in Idaho Falls
The Idaho Falls Zoo is meticulously organized by geographic region, allowing visitors to travel the globe in a single afternoon. The layout is intentionally designed to be stroller-friendly and manageable, making it the perfect destination for families with toddlers or seniors.
1. The African Rift Valley
Step into the savannah where you can encounter majestic African Lions, zebras, and lemurs. One of the zoo’s most popular highlights is the African Penguin exhibit. As one of the few zoos in the region to host these charismatic birds, it offers a rare glimpse into their playful aquatic lives.
2. The Asian Adventure
The Asian continent is represented by some of the most beautiful and endangered animals on earth. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Snow Leopards and the playful Red Pandas. The Sloth Bears are also a crowd favorite, often seen engaging with enrichment toys provided by the keepers.
3. Australia & New Guinea
Experience the wonders of the “Land Down Under” with hopping wallabies and the distinctive, haunting laugh of the kookaburra. This section captures the unique biodiversity of Oceania, right here in the Upper Snake River Valley.
4. The Children’s Zoo: A Hands-On Experience
For the youngest explorers, the Children’s Zoo is the heart of the facility. It provides a tactile learning environment where kids can:
- Pet and Feed: Interact with gentle goats and sheep.
- Observe: Watch the resident pigs play in the mud or explore the chicken coop.
- Learn: Discover the importance of domestic animals in our daily lives through interactive signage and staff demonstrations.
Conservation at the Core
The Idaho Falls Zoo isn’t just about display; it is a proud, accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This accreditation is only granted to facilities that meet the highest standards in animal care, veterinary programs, and conservation.
Through the “Quarters for Conservation” program, a portion of every admission fee is donated directly to wildlife projects. Since 2015, the zoo and its visitors have contributed nearly $500,000 to support global and regional conservation efforts, protecting everything from local golden eagles to exotic snow leopards.
Tautphaus Park: The Perfect Day-Trip Anchor
One of the primary reasons Ammon residents frequent the zoo is its location within Tautphaus Park, one of the oldest and largest parks in Idaho Falls. Visiting the zoo is often just the centerpiece of a full day of recreation.
- Funland at the Zoo: Located right next to the zoo entrance, this nostalgic amusement park features classic rides like the merry-go-round and the Eli wheel, perfect for extending the magic for younger children.
- Recreational Hub: After seeing the animals, families often migrate to the park’s expansive playground, skate park, or horseshoe pits.
- Picnic Paradise: With three large shelters and dozens of shaded picnic tables, it’s the ideal spot to host a birthday party or a weekend BBQ.
Planning Your 2026 Visit
The zoo is a seasonal attraction, typically opening in mid-April and closing after the popular “Zoo Boo” event in late October. For the 2026 season, the zoo has updated its accessibility to better serve the growing populations of Ammon and Idaho Falls.
| Category | 2026 Admission Rates |
| Adults (13–61) | $12.50 |
| Seniors (62+) | $11.00 |
| Children (3–12) | $9.50 |
| Toddlers (2 & under) | $0.50 |
| Military (with ID) | $9.50 |
2026 Operating Hours:
- Daily: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Summer Tuesdays: Extended hours until 8:00 PM (Starting after Memorial Day)
Why Ammon Residents Love the Zoo
While the zoo is technically in Idaho Falls, it serves as the primary “backyard” attraction for the City of Ammon. Its proximity—just a short drive from the Ammon Foothills or the Sand Creek Commons—makes it a low-stress outing. The mature trees of Tautphaus Park provide a cooling canopy that makes even the hottest Idaho July days comfortable.
Whether you are looking to support global conservation, educate your children about the natural world, or simply enjoy a walk through a beautifully landscaped park, the Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park remains an essential pillar of the local community.
Are you planning a visit for a specific event like “Zoo Boo” or “Wines in the Wild,” or are you just looking for a quiet weekday morning with the animals?
