Visiting Chester Zoo with little ones this summer?
We’ve put together a simple route through the zoo, shaped with younger children in mind. It’s full of animal moments, space to explore and time to take things at a slower pace.
Whether it’s their first visit or a family favourite, there’s plenty here to spark curiosity - and connect with the wonder of the natural world.
Start with the elephants
There’s no better way to begin your day than by visiting the Asian elephants!
As the largest land animals in Asia, they’re easy to spot in their outdoor habitat, and they tend to make a big impression on little ones as they watch them use their trunks to lift, reach and explore.
Add a splash of colour
Right next to the elephant habitat, you'll find our face painting studio. Kids aged three and up can choose from colourful animal designs or sparkly eco-friendly glitter - and there's even ears and tails to match!
Go eye to eye with meerkats in Heart of Africa
Stop by the meerkat habitat at the entrance to Heart of Africa, where kids (and big kids) can crawl through tunnels and pop up in domes that bring them eye to eye with curious meerkats. It's a great photo opportunity too!
From there, carry on into Heart of Africa. Our brand new 22-acre habitat inspired by the grasslands of central Africa. Here, giraffes, zebras, ostriches and antelopes roam together across a wide, open savannah, just as they would in the wild.
Head to Monsoon Forest
Monsoon Forest is the biggest indoor zoo habitat in the UK, and is bustling with colour, movement and sound.
It's an exciting place for little ones with so much to spot at every turn. Look out for tiny frogs, hornbills and sunda gharial, a type of crocodilian. And don't forget to look up - you might spot a Sumatran orangutan or silvery gibbon swinging above.
Take a break on the Lazy River Boat Trip
After exploring Islands on foot, the Lazy River Boat Trip is the perfect way to slow the pace. It's a great way for little legs to take a rest without missing out on the adventure.
Time to refuel
This is a great time to pause and grab something to eat! Head to Manado Street Kitchen on Islands, or stop by one of the many other brilliant kiosks and cafés dotted around the zoo.
There's lots for little ones to choose from, and plenty of shaded picnic spots too.
How to make your day even more special
Here's a few extra ways to explore, pause or play - perfect for when there's still energy to burn or time to spare.
Explore the zoo at their pace. Sometimes the best bits are the ones you didn’t plan.
A sweet treat’s always a good idea, especially after a big day of exploring! You’ll find plenty to choose from across the zoo.
Play at Madagascar
After lunch, let little ones burn off some energy at Madagascar Play where they can dig, jump and explore just like the animals that live in Madagascar. There's even sand and water play, and it's perfectly placed for your next stop.
Visit the penguins
The Humboldt penguins are always a hit with younger visitors, who love watching them dive and dart through the water, right before their eyes.
End your day at Butterflies
This peaceful indoor habitat is home to over 30 species of free-flying butterflies. This is the perfect way to round off a day full of discovery.
Come back for more wild days out
If your little one loved discovering the zoo today, why not make it a regular adventure?
Become a Chester Zoo member and unlock unlimited visits all year round - with a Family Saver that gives Junior Explorers a discount when you buy any adult membership.
Plus, join within 14 days of your visit and we’ll take the cost of your day ticket off your membership.