Lafayette Park/Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, VA

Lafayette Park/Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, VA has had a long varied history in the area. Known as Lafayette Zoo and Park for almost one hundred years, the city changed the name formally to the Virginia Zoological Park at Norfolk in 1985 or basically the Virginia Zoo as many people call it. Located at Granby Street adjacent to the now Lafayette Park, the zoo houses many collections of animals that appeal to many people.

The Virginia Zoo is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day of the week, barring holidays of course. Adults can expect to pay $7 while children are $5 and seniors are $6.  There are plenty of concessions available as well as stroller and wheelchair rentals. There is a little bit of everything at the zoo and everyone has their own favorites.

The African elephants and lions are popular draws, especially when they are active. The lion is a sight to see when he is prowling his area and the trumpeting of the elephants can be quite adrenaline pumping. The mandrills are interesting as well as the other primates in the zoo collection. A Siberian tiger on the premises is always a good show and interesting to learn more about.

Not every zoo has rhinos, especially a white rhino. The Virginia Zoo however does have one. There are other popular exhibits like the zebras, ostriches and giraffes. The zoo has a nice sea life exhibit and of course, the snakes are always a hoot. Every so often a zoo volunteer will have harmless snakes out for viewing and touching. Whether you come for the zoo or just to visit the Lafayette Park, the area is a nice place to visit and enjoy the outdoors.