A Visitor's Guide to Omaha's Indoor Wildlife Exhibits

Welcome to one of the world's most unique wildlife destinations! Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is famous for its massive indoor habitats. Whether it is raining, snowing, or bright and sunny outside, you can explore tropical rainforests, sandy deserts, and deep oceans all in a single day. Follow this step-by-step visitor guide to make the most of your adventure.

Step 1: Trek Through the Lied Jungle

Start your trip early in the morning at the Lied Jungle, one of the largest indoor rainforests in the world. As soon as you step inside, you will feel the warm, humid air and hear the sounds of crashing waterfalls.

• Upper Level: Walk along the elevated footbridges suspended high in the tree canopy. Look closely into the foliage to spot monkeys, tapirs, and colorful tropical birds flying nearby.
• Lower Level: Take the trail down to the forest floor. Here, you can peer through glass viewing windows to see hippos swimming underwater and explore dark caves filled with fascinating nocturnal creatures.

Step 2: Discover the Desert Dome

Next, head over to the Desert Dome, a giant glass structure that houses the world's largest indoor desert under one roof. This exhibit features wildlife from three distinct desert environments: the Namib Desert of Africa, the Red Center of Australia, and the Sonoran Desert of North America.

• Walk along the sandy paths to observe rattlesnakes, bobcats, and playful meerkats.
• Pay attention to the incredible plant life, including massive cacti and rare desert succulents adapted to survive with very little water.
• Bonus Stop: Beneath the desert lies the Kingdom of the Night exhibit. Walk quietly through the dim tunnels to see rare white alligators, bats, and active night animals.

Step 3: Dive Into the Ocean at the Aquarium

Finish your day at the Suzanne and Walter Scott Aquarium. This exhibit lets you walk underneath the ocean without getting wet!

• Step onto the moving walkway inside the 70-foot acrylic tunnel. Look up to watch sea turtles, stingrays, and several species of sharks swimming directly overhead.
• Visit the penguin exhibit to watch hundreds of energetic penguins slide across ice rocks and plunge into cold waters.

Helpful Visitor Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes: You will be walking several miles throughout the day.
• Dress in layers: The rainforest exhibit is warm and humid, while the penguin area is quite chilly!
• Check the daily schedule: Look at your zoo map for animal feeding times and live educational keeper talks.