ST. LOUIS (June 24, 2026) — For the second time, the Saint Louis Zoo has been voted “Best Free Attraction” in the United States by the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards. To celebrate the recognition, the Zoo’s most popular experiences will be included with free admission on Wednesday, July 1.
This is the fifth time USA TODAY 10BEST has polled for “Best Free Attraction,” and the second time the Saint Louis Zoo has won first place.
“We’re honored to be named the ‘Best Free Attraction’ once again,” said Michael Macek, Saint Louis Zoo executive director. “We work to be the best every single day, for our guests, our staff and our animals. Our community made this possible, and we can’t wait to celebrate by making even more of the Zoo free to enjoy!”
The following guest experiences will be free during regular Zoo hours Wednesday, July 1:
- All-day admission to Dinoroarus
- All-day admission to the Stingrays at Caribbean Cove presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital (feed cups sold separately)
- Unlimited rides on the Mary Ann Lee Conservation Carousel
- Unlimited rides on the Emerson Zooline Railroad (with adjusted stops and boarding procedures)
- Entry to the 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Sea Lion Shows presented by Together Credit Union (up to max capacity)
- All-day admission to the 4D Theater featuring Fly 4D
- All-day access to Wild Explorer Virtual Reality experiences, in partnership with Immotion
Twice daily giraffe feedings, face painting, caricatures, animal experiences and Zoo parking are not included. Regular rates will apply.
About USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice
USA TODAY 10BEST is an open voting competition to choose America’s “10 best” across travel and lifestyle categories, including food and drink, shopping, sports and outdoors, travel destinations, lodging, attractions and more. Nominations are carefully curated by a panel of subject matter experts and USA TODAY 10BEST editors before being voted on by the public. Voting for USA TODAY 10BEST “Best Free Attraction” opened on Monday, May 18, and closed Monday, June 15, 2026.