Zoos are a huge part of my life. People sometimes think only of the animals and not all the other factors of going to the zoo. As a reminder, here is the ABC's of Zoo's.

A: Animals

Every zoo comes with a unique set of animals.

B: Botanics

As you walk around take a moment to admire the flowers and plants around the zoo.

C: Conservation

The animals are the ambassadors for their wild relatives and want you to help protect them.

D: Directions

If you are not stopping to ask for directions you are sure to be checking a map at least once during your visit.

E: Education

Hopefully you leave the zoo knowing more about the animals and their habitats than you did when you arrived.

F: Food

You can enjoy food at many dinning spots but if you decide not to, the animals will surely do enough eating for all of us.

G: Gift Shop

Can't help but to walk through the gift shop and make sure there is not anything you want.

H: Habitats

All the animals have their own home that the keepers work hard to keep nice for the animals and you.

I: Informative

Take a moment to read the signs and learn more about the beautiful animals.

J: Jobs

From guest services to food to keepers and every job in between.

K: Keepers

Hard working zoo keepers take care of the animals and make sure they have fun too.

L: Laughs

You cannot help but laugh at the silly things the animals do.

M: Memories

Whether it is for the animals or the fun activities, each trip is one to remember.

N: Noise

Listen closely and you are sure to hear animal noises.

O: Opportunities

During your visit, you are sure to have many opportunities such as feeding some animals.

P: Petting Zoo

Even though they are usually farm animals, this is still a must-stop spot.

Q: Questions

Observing the animals is sure to make you think of lots of questions the staff will gladly answer.

R: Rides

An extra dose of animal-themed fun.

S: Schedule

There are always scheduled feedings and talks that you can attend.

T: Train/Tram

In case you get tired of walking or want to be chauffeured.

U: Understanding

Animals want you to understand them so that you will want to help protect their species.

V: Volunteers

Hardworking people who dedicate their free time to bettering your zoo experience.

W: Watch

Observe the various animal antics.

X: Xcitement

Both the animals and you are sure to have fun.

Y: Year Around

Even in the winter you can enjoy watching the animals.

Z: Zootastic

Zoos have animals, events, staff, and much more to ensure you have a great visit!