Frankfurt Zoo: All Information About the Zoo in Frankfurt

Dalia Campbell

Updated: 26 May 2026 ·

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Frankfurt Zoo: All Information About the Zoo in Frankfurt

frankfurt zoo
photo by www.voucherwonderland.com

Anyone taking a diverse family vacation in the beautiful metropolis of Frankfurt am Main should not miss a visit to the Frankfurt Zoo. Even for solo travelers or vacationers without children, this second oldest animal park in Germany offers an attractive destination. Located on the eastern edge of the city center, directly extending from the main shopping street 'Zeil', the Frankfurt Zoo is easily accessible during a comprehensive sightseeing tour.

What awaits you in this wonderful place can be discovered here.

Amazing Animals from All Corners of the Earth

sumatran tiger
photo by www.voucherwonderland.com

Marvel at an impressive wildlife during your stay at the Frankfurt Zoo, featuring animals from Africa and other continents. This place offers a truly personal world tour. Nestled in the city, the Frankfurt Zoo is one of the oldest zoological gardens in the world. Founded in 1858, this attraction captivates its guests with an incredible diversity of species. In open-air exhibits and unique animal houses, more than 500 different species and over 4,500 animals can be observed.

From Beginnings to the Modern Zoo

Without the dedication of the legendary director Professor Bernhard Grzimek, this picturesque nature oasis would not have become known worldwide.

After the zoo was destroyed during World War II, the prominent zoologist, filmmaker, and conservationist completely rebuilt the zoo. During his nearly thirty years of work from 1945 to 1974, Bernhard Grzimek introduced exemplary modern animal husbandry. In the 1960s and 70s, the Frankfurt Zoo became primarily famous through the TV show 'A Place for Animals,' also created by Grzimek.

Today, visitors can find the Grzimek-Haus, named after him, which is the largest nocturnal house in Europe. In this building, day turns into night, and in the twilight, large and small visitors can admire fascinating nocturnal animals like bats or African aardvarks in their activities. Equally popular among the guests is the cat jungle, where Indian lions, Sumatran tigers, and rust-colored cats reside. Gaze fearlessly at the majestic big cats through glass panes or over water moats.

From the Arctic Ocean to the Amazon

seal
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A visit to the Exotarium is equally delightful. The diversity of species here includes penguins, marine and freshwater fish, amphibians, reptiles, and insects living in their close-to-nature environment. Twice a day, a tropical shower occurs at the Australian freshwater crocodiles.

The adventure at the seal cliffs happens both above and below the water. The resident harbor seals and sea lions are especially popular with visitors due to their playful nature. In a grotto with underwater windows, you can enjoy a unique view of these lively marine creatures and watch them while they dive.

New Arrivals Among the Apes

monkey house frankfurt zoo
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The Frankfurt Zoo gained international recognition for the successful breeding of all four great ape species in a zoo for the first time.

Over time, more than 100 baby monkeys, gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans have been born. Since 2008, the entirely new Borgori-Wald has served as the ideal accommodation for great apes. As the name suggests, nature in the form of numerous trees, rocks, and natural ground has been brought into the house. Today, both visitors and animals can feel at ease like in a jungle.

Enjoy a Wonderful Break

petting zoo frankfurt
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In addition to a variety of spectacular animal houses, the zoo offers much more. After an enlightening tour through the aviaries with the free flight area, the grand giraffe house complete with a touching giraffe statue, and the rhino house, cozy restaurants and stylish beer gardens on the zoo grounds invite visitors to relax.

While adults wind down after an eventful day, the children's zoo with a petting area is perfect for young visitors. If the spacious playground is still not enough, little ones can expend their energy by pony riding on weekends. Interesting special exhibitions, events, markets, and guided tours complete the offerings perfectly, providing an ideal balance during an exciting short getaway in Frankfurt am Main.

Conservation and Biodiversity

animal conservation zoo frankfurt
photo by www.voucherwonderland.com

The zoo's motto 'Experience Animals - Preserve Nature' is reflected in the choice of species displayed. These are either highly endangered or already threatened with extinction. Among them are animals like the Asiatic lion, the Manchurian crane, and the European-threatened Bearded vulture. Through the Frankfurt Zoological Society, the Frankfurt Zoo actively participates in species conservation in the countries of the endangered animals. Furthermore, conservation programs are conducted for a total of seven animal species, including the Rusty-spotted cat, the Maned wolf, and the Gorilla.

In summary: Whether a fun outing with the whole family or a fascinating excursion with loved ones, a visit to the Frankfurt Zoo offers an optimal change from the city trip in Frankfurt am Main. Thanks to extensive species conservation, you can admire rare animal species that live in a close-to-nature environment and are carefully preserved. This fantastic insight will surely remain a memorable experience.

The Frankfurt Zoo is one of the most beautiful zoos in Hesse.

  • Here you can find all sights in Frankfurt am Main

Address: Bernhard-Grzimek-Allee 1, 60316 Frankfurt am Main

Opening Hours: Summer (March 31 - October 26, 2024) daily 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM | Winter (October 27 - March 30, 2025) daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission Price: Day ticket adults $12 | Reduced $6 | Families $29 | Children up to 5 years have free admission

Website: www.zoo-frankfurt.de