Recognition reflects strong community support and Zoo’s continued dedication to conservation, education, and providing exceptional experiences for visitors.

JACKSONVILLE, FLA. – Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is thrilled to announce it has earned the No. 4 spot for Best Zoo in the United States as part of the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.

As part of the 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, the Top 10 Best Zoos were determined by public voting, from February 10 through March 10, 2025. This marked the first time Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens was nominated to participate in 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for Best Zoo, a prestigious recognition selected by USA TODAY editors and a panel of subject matter experts.

“It is a tremendous honor to be named the No. 4 Best Zoo in the nation. This achievement would not be possible without the unwavering support from our community and all those who voted for us – thank you!” said Nikki Smith, the Zoo’s Chief Philanthropy and Marketing Officer. “We are thrilled to be recognized alongside such exceptional zoos across the country. I believe this is a testament to both our community and committed team here at the Zoo, who remain steadfast in our shared mission to protect wildlife and wild places.”

To view the complete list of top 10 winners for Best Zoo, visit here.

With more than 2,000 rare and exotic animals and 1,000 varieties of plants, the Zoo is a leader in both animal care and visitor engagement. The Zoo's Land of the Tiger exhibit, home to critically endangered tigers, was previously ranked #5 in the USA TODAY 10Best Reader's Choice Awards for Best Zoo Exhibits in the United States in 2023.

As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since 1987, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has been a trusted institution in animal and plant conservation, providing world-class exhibits such as Primate Forest and the award-winning Range of the Jaguar.

The Zoo is also preparing for the future with its transformative REZOOVENATION project, which will revitalize nearly every part of the Zoo. Starting with the J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Manatee River habitat and the immersive VyStar SkyScape entrance, this initiative promises to enhance animal habitats, improve guest experiences, and contribute to the Zoo's long-term sustainability. The first phase of these projects is expected to open in 2026.

About Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

For over 100 years, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has aimed to inspire the discovery and appreciation of wildlife through innovative experiences in a caring environment. Starting in 1914 with an animal collection of one red deer fawn, the Zoo now has more than 2,000 rare and exotic animals and 1,000 species of plants, boasting the largest botanical garden in Northeast Florida. The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a nonprofit organization and a portion of every ticket sold goes to the over 45 conservation initiatives Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens supports around the world, and here in NE Florida. JZG is proud to be an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. For more information, visit jacksonvillezoo.org.