The Memphis Zoo has anchored Overton Park in Midtown Memphis, Tennessee since opening on April 4, 1906, growing from a small city menagerie into one of the country’s most visited zoological parks. Spanning 76 acres with roughly 55 acres developed for exhibits, the zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, with its accreditation renewed through 2030 following a multi-year inspection process completed in 2025.
Today the Memphis Zoo houses more than 3,500 animals representing over 500 species, drawing approximately 1.2 million visitors annually. The zoo built its national reputation in part on its China exhibit, which featured giant pandas on loan from China for two decades, and it continues to expand habitats like Teton Trek and the Northwest Passage polar bear exhibit that immerse visitors in themed ecosystems from around the world.
Stats at a Glance
- Location: Midtown, Memphis, Tennessee
- Opened: April 4, 1906
- Size: 76 acres (about 55 developed)
- Species/Animal Count: Over 3,500 animals, 500+ species
- Annual Visitors: About 1.2 million
- Accreditation: AZA-accredited, renewed through 2030
- Famous For: Its former giant panda exhibit and 2008 TripAdvisor #1 U.S. Zoo ranking
Conservation and Recognition
Beyond its exhibits, the Memphis Zoo participates in AZA-coordinated conservation programs for endangered species and underwent extensive facility upgrades, including an 11,500-square-foot veterinary hospital renovation completed in 2025 after 25 years of service. The zoo’s accreditation, most recently renewed in March 2025, reflects sustained compliance with national animal welfare and care standards.
Explore more: Explore more Zoos & Aquariums.
Memphis Zoo FAQs
When did the Memphis Zoo open?
The Memphis Zoo opened on April 4, 1906, in Overton Park in Midtown Memphis, Tennessee.
How big is the Memphis Zoo?
The zoo covers 76 acres, with about 55 acres currently developed for exhibits and visitor areas.
Does the Memphis Zoo still have pandas?
No. The zoo’s giant pandas, Le Le and Ya Ya, were part of a 20-year loan from China; Le Le died in February 2023 and Ya Ya returned to China in May 2023, ending the exhibit’s panda residency.
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Photo: Unicurse / CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.