Thailand offers an impressive mix of interactive, safe, and educational zoos designed to entertain and inform young minds. These zoos near Bangkok are perfect for day trips, school holidays, or weekend family getaways. With hands-on animal encounters, water play zones, and strong conservation missions, kids can learn about biodiversity in the most engaging way possible.
🌟 Top 5 Child-Friendly Zoos Near Bangkok
🦒 1. Khao Kheow Open Zoo – Chonburi
- Distance from Bangkok: ~90 km (~1.5 hours by car)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Entry Fee: ~250 THB (Adults), ~100 THB (Children)
- Why It’s Great for Kids:
- Open safari-like setting with trams
- Feeding giraffes, elephants, and deer
- Night Safari option (extra fee)
- Animals: White rhinos, flamingos, tigers, penguins, monkeys
- Conservation Focus:
- Breeding programs for endangered species
- Wildlife education programs for schools
- Habitat-like enclosures promoting animal well-being
🐘 2. Safari World – Bangkok
- Location: Minburi, Bangkok
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ~750 THB (Adult), ~600 THB (Child) – combo ticket
- Why It’s Great for Kids:
- Safari Park (drive-through) & Marine Park
- Live animal shows: dolphin, orangutan boxing, sea lions
- Jungle Cruise Adventure and feeding zones
- Animals: Zebras, giraffes, dolphins, orangutans, white tigers
- Conservation Focus:
- Animal care clinics on-site
- Awareness about marine life protection
- Educational signage and shows
🐊 3. Samut Prakan Crocodile Farm & Zoo – Samut Prakan
- Distance from Bangkok: ~1 hour by car
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily
- Entry Fee: ~200 THB (Adults), ~100 THB (Children)
- Why It’s Great for Kids:
- World’s largest crocodile collection
- Elephant & crocodile shows (note: some visitors may have ethical concerns)
- Dinosaur museum and mini zoo
- Animals: Crocodiles, elephants, snakes, camels, turtles
- Conservation Focus:
- Crocodile breeding program
- Public education on reptiles and their importance
- Safety awareness programs for children
🐐 4. Dusit Zoo Replacement (Under Construction) – Pathum Thani
- Status: Opening Soon (replacing Dusit Zoo, Bangkok)
- Expected Features:
- Modern zoo design focused on animal welfare
- Expanded green zones and water areas
- Interactive zones for children, nature trails
- Educational Vision:
- Blend of fun + science-based learning
- Partnerships with schools for zoology awareness
- Animal conservation labs and media centers
🦓 5. Fantasia Lagoon Zoo – The Mall Bangkae (Bangkok)
- Location: Rooftop of The Mall Bangkae, Bangkok
- Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM daily
- Entry Fee: Included with water park ticket (~200–300 THB)
- Why It’s Great for Kids:
- Combines water park and small animal zones
- Safe, clean, and indoors — perfect for hot days
- Ideal for toddlers and young children
- Animals: Rabbits, goats, birds, fish, turtles (petting zoo)
- Conservation Focus:
- Urban nature education for children
- Fun-based learning through signage and staff interactions
🏷️ Other Notable Zoos for Kids (Beyond Bangkok)
- Chiang Mai Zoo – Pandas, snow dome, monorail
- Songkhla Zoo – Giraffe feeding and sea view
- Ubon Zoo – Eco-friendly and less crowded
- Pattaya Sheep Farm – Hands-on farm animal experience
- Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo (Korat) – Waterpark and safari rides
🌍 Why these places in Thailand are special for kids
- Exposure to Asian and African wildlife they’ve only seen in books
- Understanding of animal behavior and protection
- Lessons on respecting animals and nature
- Memorable interactive experiences like feeding and petting
- Opportunities to bond with family through educational fun
📣 Tips for Parents
- Carry hats, sunscreen, and water bottles
- Plan early morning visits to avoid heat
- Check online for ticket discounts or group passes
- Respect zoo rules regarding animal feeding and photography
- Educate children in advance about animal kindness
