by Sara A Broers

Created on: June 15, 2009   Last Updated: August 13, 2009

The Henry Doorly Zoo, located at 3701 South 10th St., in Omaha, Nebraska, is one of the most inviting zoos in the United States. From the rain forest, to the desert, this zoo has something for everyone. With more than 17,000 animals for the whole family to enjoy, along with 962 different species of animals; this zoo will entice you unlike any other.

The Lied Jungle, which opened in 1992, is the largest, indoor rainforest in the world. While walking through the jungle, you will encounter blue monkeys, otter, gibbons, and many exotic plants from Asia, Africa, and South America. While walking through this stunning, colorful jungle, you will feel as though you are in a far away place. The climate is warm, humid, as well as inviting. A must see while visiting the Henry Doorly Zoo. This jungle is so special that Time Magazine recognized this masterpiece as a "Top Ten Design in the World" in 1992.

For the penguin lover, the Henry Doorly Zoo is home to the little, tufted, king, and gentoo penguins. The viewing area within the Seas Aquarium is truly one of a kind. Some of the little penguins do tend to gather near the entrance to the Seas Aquarium,in a pond built just to their liking. Within the Seas Aquarium; sharks, jellyfish, and sea turtles are also visible to those passing through. With more than 900,000 gallons of water in the shark tank, this tank is a shark lovers dream. Located underneath this massive amount of water is a 70 foot tunnel that allows visitors to experience shark viewing from a unique perspective.

The Desert Dome, which opened in 2002, is home to the world's largest indoor desert. With more than 1,760 strategically placed acrylic windows, this massive structure has the definite feel of a desert. Hummingbirds, wallaby, swift fox, and meerkat are some of the animals that call the Desert Dome home. While touring the Desert Dome; be sure to take a stroll through the Kingdom of the Night, which lies beneath the main level of the Desert Dome. Here you can experience a canyon, dry bat cave, and a swamp; while under one awesome dome.

A visit to the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, would not be complete without a stroll through the Hubbard Gorilla Valley. This valley is home to the western lowland gorilla, as well as the mantled guereza. Through large glass windows, visitors can observe these beautiful creatures in their day to day interactions. From the Hubbard Gorilla Valley you will want to head on over to the Hubbard Orangutan Forest. Here you can view orangutan swinging from trees and climbing to the top of a waterfall. Just as the gorilla exhibit, there are several window viewing areas along the walkway through the Hubbard orangutan Forest.

Should your feet begin to tire, take a ride on the Omaha Zoo Railroad. You will need an additional ticket to take part in this adventure, but your feet will thank you later in the day. With so little time and so much to see, the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, is a must see while visiting the Omaha, Nebraska area. A great vacation destination for the family with young children, as well as teens. the Henry Doorly Zoo can provide hours of entertainment for everyone. The cat complex, as well as the polar bear exhibit will thrill kids of all ages. So, what are you waiting for? Time to plan that visit to the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska.

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