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St. Petersburg Zoo
Looking for a fun day out with the family? The St. Petersburg Zoo is a top pick - and for good reason. You'll find a ton of interactive exhibits, a diverse range of animals, and even a picnic area to grab a bite. It's a great value for money, if you ask me.
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A Zoo in Disarray: The St. Petersburg Zoo's Struggle to Survive
summarizeEditor's Summary
I've been visiting the St. Petersburg Zoo for years, but lately, it's become clear that this beloved institution is struggling to stay afloat. With a rich history dating back to 1865, the zoo has seen better days. As a regular visitor, I've noticed the lack of modern amenities, outdated enclosures, and a general sense of disrepair. While there are some redeeming qualities, the zoo's problems far outweigh its successes. The zoo's small size makes it easy to navigate with kids, and the nearby park is a great spot for a picnic. There are some initiatives that show promise, such as the recent additions of new animal species. The zoo's location near the Petropavlovskaya Fortress is a major draw for tourists. The zoo's staff is generally friendly and knowledgeable, making for a pleasant visit. However, the zoo's outdated enclosures and lack of modern amenities make for a subpar experience. Many of the animals appear tired and stressed, which is heartbreaking to see. There are too many empty enclosures and exhibits, which detracts from the overall experience. The zoo's lack of interactive navigation makes it difficult for visitors to find what they're looking for. The zoo is missing many popular animal species, including elephants, hippos, and rhinos. The zoo's overall condition is in dire need of repair and reconstruction.
settingsSpecifications
KararKötü
Banyolar2/10
GenelDurum2/10
HizmetKalite4/10
HayvanSahaları2/10
HediyeDükkanı4/10
GirişFiyatları3/10
GünlükPlanlayıcı4/10
HayvanDuyarlılığı1/10
ZiyaretçiDuyarlılığı5/10
I've been putting off writing this review for a while now, and I'm not sure why it's been so hard for me to get my thoughts down on paper. Maybe it's because the St. Petersburg Zoo is a place that's hard to criticize, despite all its flaws. It's a zoo that's been around since 1865, and it's a piece of history that's deeply ingrained in the city's culture. But, as I've visited the zoo over the years, I've seen it go from a place of wonder and excitement to a zoo that's struggling to stay afloat.
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I'll start from the beginning. I'm not a zoo enthusiast, and I don't have a personal connection to the St. Petersburg Zoo. My family and I moved to St. Petersburg from Rostov-on-Don in 2017, and we started visiting the zoo as a regular part of our routine. At first, we were excited to explore the city's zoo and see the animals up close. But, as we continued to visit, we started to notice that something was off. The zoo was small, and it seemed like it was struggling to keep up with the times.
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I remember hearing about the Rostov Zoo, which was considered to be in poor condition. But, as we visited the St. Petersburg Zoo, I realized that it was actually worse off than the Rostov Zoo. The enclosures were small, and the animals seemed to be suffering. The zoo's ticket prices were also steep, which made it difficult for families to visit.
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One of the things that really stood out to me was the zoo's lack of attention to detail. The signs were old and worn out, and the maps were scarce. I remember asking a staff member where to find the paper map, and she just waved her hand and said, 'Take a picture.' It was clear that the zoo was not prioritizing the visitor experience.
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As we continued to visit the zoo, we started to notice that the animals were dwindling in numbers. The polar bear, which was once a symbol of the zoo, was now alone and looked sad. The giraffe, which was once a popular attraction, was now stuck in a small enclosure that seemed to be neglected. It was heartbreaking to see the animals suffering like this.
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The zoo's food options were also limited and overpriced. The cafeteria was dirty, and the food was not appetizing. We always brought our own snacks and water, which was a good thing, because the options at the zoo were limited.
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The gift shop was also a disappointment. The prices were steep, and the selection was limited. I remember seeing a stuffed tiger for 800 rubles, which was outrageous. The zoo's branded souvenirs were also overpriced, and the quality was poor.
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The restrooms were also a problem. There were only two restrooms in the entire zoo, and they were both located near each other. One of them was dirty and smelly, while the other was okay but not well-maintained.
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As I continued to visit the zoo, I started to notice that the management was not prioritizing the animals' well-being. The enclosures were small and dirty, and the animals seemed to be suffering. It was clear that the zoo was not taking care of its animals, and it was heartbreaking to see.
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The zoo's daily planner, which was supposed to be a fun and educational tool, was actually a disappointment. The prices were steep, and the content was not engaging. It was clear that the zoo was not prioritizing the visitor experience.
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I was also shocked by the dirty enclosures and tiny cages the zoo had for the animals. It's not exactly what I'd call a comfortable living space. The weather was usually too bad, and the crowds were massive, making it almost impossible to get around the zoo on a decent day. The ticket prices were going up every year, and it was getting ridiculous.
\xa0
During my research for this review, I came across an interview with the zoo's director and government officials discussing the zoo's potential relocation outside the city. It all starts to make sense... The St. Petersburg Zoo was opened in 1865, and it's survived three emperors, witnessed the revolution, endured the war, the blockade, and the collapse of the Soviet Union... only to be closed down due to poor management?
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It's clear that the St. Petersburg Zoo is slowly dying out. New animals aren't being introduced, and the old ones are passing away. At this rate, one of Russia's oldest zoos will be nothing but a memory in five years, replaced by a 25-story skyscraper.
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I really hope I'm wrong about this. I still have hope that the zoo will turn things around and become a place of wonder and excitement again. But, until then, I would not recommend visiting the St. Petersburg Zoo. It's a shame, because it has so much potential, but it's just not living up to it.
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Address: Alexandrovsky Park, 1, St. Petersburg
Hours of operation: Every day from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (extended to 10 PM during the summer)
Admission prices:
Adults - 700 rubles
School-age children (7-18 years old) and seniors - 300 rubles
Students - 350 rubles
Preschoolers (under 7 years old) - free
Tickets can be purchased on-site by waiting in line at the ticket booth or on the zoo's official website. If you have any discounts, be sure to bring the relevant document. For example, we were asked to show our child's birth certificate to confirm their age.
Getting there
We usually take the metro and get off at the Gor'kovskaya station. From there, it's a beautiful walk through the park, past the theaters... The Sportivnaya station is also within walking distance, but it's faster to get to from Gor'kovskaya - about 10 minutes.
If you're thinking of driving, keep in mind that the zoo doesn't have its own parking lot, and the city parking costs 100 rubles per hour. The parking spots in this area are scarce, but you might get lucky.
Navigation
I've been to the zoo twice, and I have to say, it has two entrances and exits. The main one is near the metro station 'Gor'kovskaya' - you can't miss it. It's always bustling with people, and there are plenty of vendors and folks trying to take pictures with their snakes.
My second entrance was a bit further down, along the zoo's perimeter, near the Kronverksky Strait. It's not outside, but inside the building, and after passing through security, you'll end up inside the Exotarium.
Inside the zoo, I found only three maps. The first one was hanging near the main entrance. On my first visit, I asked a staff member who was checking tickets where to find the paper map. She looked at me weirdly, waved her hand, and said, 'Just take a picture.'
The second map I found on the opposite side, near the birds. It was pretty dirty.
The third one was a bit harder to find. According to it, the zoo is bustling with life, but in reality, it feels like you're walking between half-empty, run-down enclosures.
Accessibility
One thing that struck me is how accessible the zoo is for families with strollers. But, unfortunately, the zoo administrators don't seem to be aware of their primary target audience.
There's only one ramp, and it's located near the main entrance, by the ticket counter.
To get into the Exotarium (from the zoo side), you'll have to navigate a pretty steep staircase.
It's a real pain to navigate with a stroller. There's no way to secure it downstairs, either.
Other areas have smaller ramps, which aren't a big deal for strollers, but might be a challenge for wheelchairs...
Food
You can only buy food at the places near the main entrance. So, you either come hungry and buy food right away, or you put up with it until you've seen everything and then head back to the start to grab a bite.
We always bring our own water, cookies, and chips.
They've got these little huts set up for eating. There aren't many of them, and they're usually occupied. I managed to snap a photo of them empty because it was late in the day and the zoo was closing.
The one place that's actually gotten better over the years is the gift shop.
But the prices still scare off potential customers.
They used to have fewer plush animals, but the price was always higher than what you'd find at a regular store. You can get similar soft toys for a fraction of the cost at places like 'Detsky Mir.'
Take this adorable little tiger, for example - almost 800 rubles. Not cool.
Fashionable capybara - 1800.
Mobile snakes - 1700. When the zoo mastered the language of 'something for the rich'?
Random toys, many of these animals aren't even represented at the St. Petersburg Zoo. Doves, I get, but pandas? Nope.
The zoo has had branded souvenirs before, but now there are more of them. The quality is pretty meh. I love these kinds of mementos, but I haven't bought anything here yet.
The zoo's daily planner with the St. Petersburg Zoo logo costs 1300 rubles.
I'm not even mad about the prices for the polar bear mug - 800 rubles - and the gingerbread cookies - 260 rubles. But what really gets me is that I don't understand where the money from these sales is going, considering the state of the zoo.
The Restrooms
There are only two restrooms in the entire 'Leningrad Zoo', and they're both located close to each other. One is near the main entrance, near the food establishments, and the other is on the first floor of the Exotarium.
The one near the Exotarium looks okay at first glance, but the stench is overwhelming. I and other women just ran out, holding our noses.
My Takeaway
I suggest to our high-end readers to take a stroll through the 'Leningrad Zoo' and join me on a journey from 'Not what I expected' to 'When are they going to fix this place?!\'. If I had to give advice to someone visiting the 'Leningrad Zoo' for the first time, I'd say, 'Get ready to be disappointed'.
When we visited the zoo for the first time in 2017, there were no elephants, rhinos, hippos, brown bears, seals, or walruses. The list goes on and on.
But even the animals that were here during our first visit have significantly dwindled in numbers since then.
The polar bear is the pride and symbol of the St. Petersburg Zoo, to the extent that it's even featured on the zoo's emblem.
Until recently, there were two polar bears, but now there's only one. It's heartbreaking to see.
We used to live in St. Petersburg, and the zoo had a skunk. They gave it a tiny aquarium, but even there, it managed to create a ruckus.
One year we visited, and its enclosure was draped with a sign saying 'Exhibition is being renovated.' And that's been the case for several years now.
The neighbor fish in the aquarium across from us was a baracuda - it'd stare at us with a menacing gaze every time we visited.
But it's no longer there...
When we first started going to the Leningrad Zoo, it really won us over with its coziness. Yeah, it's small, and yeah, it's not the prettiest place. But there were some initiatives from the management that made it interesting.
2019 was a great year for the zoo - they created an amazing garden and even showcased some exotic plants.
Both kids and adults could see how oranges, lemons, and limes were growing.
I have no idea what happened, but those initiatives are long gone. Now the field is just a plain lawn. Oh well.
Another interesting thing that's gone is the display of lichens and other forest stuff.
This path had a concrete sidewalk. On the left, there were birdhouse enclosures and interactive boards about birds.
Now it's abandoned. The interactive boards are long overdue for a replacement. The lichen is gone.
Well, at least it's clean...
I was completely charmed by the pond on my first visit and the wooden bridge that spanned it. It was great for observing birds without having to peer through a cage.
The more I walked on the bridge, the more I worried about its safety.
In the end, they closed it off. At first, I thought it was for repairs, but I don't see any work being done.
The thing that used to be the foundation of the bridge. Even the zoo's enclosure fence can't be set up properly...
The pond hasn't been cleaned in ages, and it's slowly turned into a stinky swamp. Visitors get a heads up on its approach by the putrid smell.
This is the kind of thing visitors to the zoo saw five years ago.
Now, the picture's a sad one. And it's not just because of the season - the second photo's from the middle of summer, not spring.
I've been visiting the St. Petersburg Zoo every year, and it's heartbreaking to see the place falling apart.
At first, I thought a renovation was just around the corner. But these patches on the Exotarium walls are the first signs of reconstruction – or so I hoped. Unfortunately, it seems like nothing's changed.
The second floor of the Exotarium. When we first came here eight years ago, the cafe was already closed, but there were still tables and chairs where you could sit and take a break.
Now it's just a mess. It feels like the zoo is only capable of feeding the animals and cleaning their enclosures – everything else seems to be beyond their abilities.
By the way, have you noticed the 'adopt an animal' initiative at the St. Petersburg Zoo? They often display a sign on the enclosure saying that the animal is being supported by a private individual or organization.
This is just a small part of the animals in the care of private individuals.
So, the logical question is: what exactly does the zoo do?
It can't even manage to tear down the old, dilapidated enclosures.
The building is a disaster, and the management has done nothing about it for years.
I still can't believe I stumbled upon this abandoned area within the St. Petersburg Zoo. I mean, is this real or just some kind of mirage?
Inside this empty enclosure, a whole forest has grown. What do you do when you're in charge of maintenance for years?
Now, when I visit the zoo, I'm reminded of how things have changed. A few years ago, there was a small area with attractions right in the middle of the zoo.
But now, that area is just a barren field.
When we moved to St. Petersburg, there were only two circles, and the cost was half the price.
But that doesn't mean the horses have gotten any less enthusiastic about their work. Anyone interested can sign their kid up for riding lessons.
When we first visited the zoo, it was tough to look at some of the animals. Their enclosures were tiny, grimy, and smelled awful.
But at the other end of the zoo, there were already new enclosures standing idle. It was clear they'd been built a while back, but never put into use.
I've noticed that some of the animals have been relocated to a new enclosure.
The tiger and its friends have moved to a new glass enclosure on the other side of the zoo. To be honest, it's been a bit neglected since it was empty for a while.
The giraffe is still in its original enclosure, though.
At first glance, it looks abandoned, but it's actually home to the last remaining giraffe.
I was surprised that the zoo gave him a pretty large, albeit neglected, enclosure.
The giraffe is super friendly and loves to get up close to the enclosure. One time, my partner was standing there, and I thought, 'Okay, I'll get a great shot of this animal in the background...' and the animal just sneezed right onto my husband's shoulder.
If you spend too much time walking around the zoo, you can stumble upon some hidden corners of history. There are no signs or labels here at all.
It's possible that this was some sort of initiative at one point, but now it just looks like a dump.
Even the relatively new enclosures look neglected and out of date.
Every year, this place looks more and more like a jungle. I'm really sorry for all the animals stuck here.
I was shocked by the dirty enclosures and tiny cages the zoo has for these poor animals. It's not exactly what I'd call a comfortable living space.
Summer. Crowd around the enclosure with the white bear
Autumn. Crowd around the Predators
It's almost impossible to get around the zoo on a decent day. The weather's usually too bad, and the crowds are massive.
The ticket prices are going up every year. I mean, last year it was 600 rubles, and now it's 700. That's just ridiculous.
This souvenir shop is basically the zoo's gift shop. The equestrian club is a big part of it, with many animals being cared for by third-party individuals. It's hard to believe the St. Petersburg Zoo is claiming to have enough funds to provide decent care for the animals and a nice facility. This zoo is essentially a slap in the face to the city.
During my research for this review, I came across an interview with the zoo's director and government officials discussing the zoo's potential relocation outside the city. It all starts to make sense... The St. Petersburg Zoo was opened in 1865. It's survived three emperors, witnessed the revolution, endured the war, the blockade, and the collapse of the Soviet Union... only to be closed down due to poor management?
It's clear that the St. Petersburg Zoo is slowly dying out. New animals aren't being introduced, and the old ones are passing away. At this rate, one of Russia's oldest zoos will be nothing but a memory in five years, replaced by a 25-story skyscraper.
I really hope I'm wrong about this.
Address: Alexandrovsky Park, 1, St. Petersburg
Hours of operation: Every day from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (extended to 10 PM during the summer)
Admission prices:
Adults - 700 rubles
School-age children (7-18 years old) and seniors - 300 rubles
Students - 350 rubles
Preschoolers (under 7 years old) - free
Tickets can be purchased on-site by waiting in line at the ticket booth or on the zoo's official website. If you have any discounts, be sure to bring the relevant document. For example, we were asked to show our child's birth certificate to confirm their age.
Getting there
We usually take the metro and get off at the Gor'kovskaya station. From there, it's a beautiful walk through the park, past the theaters... The Sportivnaya station is also within walking distance, but it's faster to get to from Gor'kovskaya - about 10 minutes.
If you're thinking of driving, keep in mind that the zoo doesn't have its own parking lot, and the city parking costs 100 rubles per hour. The parking spots in this area are scarce, but you might get lucky.
Navigation
I've been to the zoo twice, and I have to say, it has two entrances and exits. The main one is near the metro station 'Gor'kovskaya' - you can't miss it. It's always bustling with people, and there are plenty of vendors and folks trying to take pictures with their snakes.
My second entrance was a bit further down, along the zoo's perimeter, near the Kronverksky Strait. It's not outside, but inside the building, and after passing through security, you'll end up inside the Exotarium.
Inside the zoo, I found only three maps. The first one was hanging near the main entrance. On my first visit, I asked a staff member who was checking tickets where to find the paper map. She looked at me weirdly, waved her hand, and said, 'Just take a picture.'
The second map I found on the opposite side, near the birds. It was pretty dirty.
The third one was a bit harder to find. According to it, the zoo is bustling with life, but in reality, it feels like you're walking between half-empty, run-down enclosures.
Accessibility
One thing that struck me is how accessible the zoo is for families with strollers. But, unfortunately, the zoo administrators don't seem to be aware of their primary target audience.
There's only one ramp, and it's located near the main entrance, by the ticket counter.
To get into the Exotarium (from the zoo side), you'll have to navigate a pretty steep staircase.
It's a real pain to navigate with a stroller. There's no way to secure it downstairs, either.
Other areas have smaller ramps, which aren't a big deal for strollers, but might be a challenge for wheelchairs...
Food
You can only buy food at the places near the main entrance. So, you either come hungry and buy food right away, or you put up with it until you've seen everything and then head back to the start to grab a bite.
We always bring our own water, cookies, and chips.
They've got these little huts set up for eating. There aren't many of them, and they're usually occupied. I managed to snap a photo of them empty because it was late in the day and the zoo was closing.
The one place that's actually gotten better over the years is the gift shop.
But the prices still scare off potential customers.
They used to have fewer plush animals, but the price was always higher than what you'd find at a regular store. You can get similar soft toys for a fraction of the cost at places like 'Detsky Mir.'
Take this adorable little tiger, for example - almost 800 rubles. Not cool.
Fashionable capybara - 1800.
Mobile snakes - 1700. When the zoo mastered the language of 'something for the rich'?
Random toys, many of these animals aren't even represented at the St. Petersburg Zoo. Doves, I get, but pandas? Nope.
The zoo has had branded souvenirs before, but now there are more of them. The quality is pretty meh. I love these kinds of mementos, but I haven't bought anything here yet.
The zoo's daily planner with the St. Petersburg Zoo logo costs 1300 rubles.
I'm not even mad about the prices for the polar bear mug - 800 rubles - and the gingerbread cookies - 260 rubles. But what really gets me is that I don't understand where the money from these sales is going, considering the state of the zoo.
The Restrooms
There are only two restrooms in the entire 'Leningrad Zoo', and they're both located close to each other. One is near the main entrance, near the food establishments, and the other is on the first floor of the Exotarium.
The one near the Exotarium looks okay at first glance, but the stench is overwhelming. I and other women just ran out, holding our noses.
My Takeaway
I suggest to our high-end readers to take a stroll through the 'Leningrad Zoo' and join me on a journey from 'Not what I expected' to 'When are they going to fix this place?!\'. If I had to give advice to someone visiting the 'Leningrad Zoo' for the first time, I'd say, 'Get ready to be disappointed'.
When we visited the zoo for the first time in 2017, there were no elephants, rhinos, hippos, brown bears, seals, or walruses. The list goes on and on.
But even the animals that were here during our first visit have significantly dwindled in numbers since then.
The polar bear is the pride and symbol of the St. Petersburg Zoo, to the extent that it's even featured on the zoo's emblem.
Until recently, there were two polar bears, but now there's only one. It's heartbreaking to see.
We used to live in St. Petersburg, and the zoo had a skunk. They gave it a tiny aquarium, but even there, it managed to create a ruckus.
One year we visited, and its enclosure was draped with a sign saying 'Exhibition is being renovated.' And that's been the case for several years now.
The neighbor fish in the aquarium across from us was a baracuda - it'd stare at us with a menacing gaze every time we visited.
But it's no longer there...
When we first started going to the Leningrad Zoo, it really won us over with its coziness. Yeah, it's small, and yeah, it's not the prettiest place. But there were some initiatives from the management that made it interesting.
2019 was a great year for the zoo - they created an amazing garden and even showcased some exotic plants.
Both kids and adults could see how oranges, lemons, and limes were growing.
I have no idea what happened, but those initiatives are long gone. Now the field is just a plain lawn. Oh well.
Another interesting thing that's gone is the display of lichens and other forest stuff.
This path had a concrete sidewalk. On the left, there were birdhouse enclosures and interactive boards about birds.
Now it's abandoned. The interactive boards are long overdue for a replacement. The lichen is gone.
Well, at least it's clean...
I was completely charmed by the pond on my first visit and the wooden bridge that spanned it. It was great for observing birds without having to peer through a cage.
The more I walked on the bridge, the more I worried about its safety.
In the end, they closed it off. At first, I thought it was for repairs, but I don't see any work being done.
The thing that used to be the foundation of the bridge. Even the zoo's enclosure fence can't be set up properly...
The pond hasn't been cleaned in ages, and it's slowly turned into a stinky swamp. Visitors get a heads up on its approach by the putrid smell.
This is the kind of thing visitors to the zoo saw five years ago.
Now, the picture's a sad one. And it's not just because of the season - the second photo's from the middle of summer, not spring.
I've been visiting the St. Petersburg Zoo every year, and it's heartbreaking to see the place falling apart.
At first, I thought a renovation was just around the corner. But these patches on the Exotarium walls are the first signs of reconstruction – or so I hoped. Unfortunately, it seems like nothing's changed.
The second floor of the Exotarium. When we first came here eight years ago, the cafe was already closed, but there were still tables and chairs where you could sit and take a break.
Now it's just a mess. It feels like the zoo is only capable of feeding the animals and cleaning their enclosures – everything else seems to be beyond their abilities.
By the way, have you noticed the 'adopt an animal' initiative at the St. Petersburg Zoo? They often display a sign on the enclosure saying that the animal is being supported by a private individual or organization.
This is just a small part of the animals in the care of private individuals.
So, the logical question is: what exactly does the zoo do?
It can't even manage to tear down the old, dilapidated enclosures.
The building is a disaster, and the management has done nothing about it for years.
I still can't believe I stumbled upon this abandoned area within the St. Petersburg Zoo. I mean, is this real or just some kind of mirage?
Inside this empty enclosure, a whole forest has grown. What do you do when you're in charge of maintenance for years?
Now, when I visit the zoo, I'm reminded of how things have changed. A few years ago, there was a small area with attractions right in the middle of the zoo.
But now, that area is just a barren field.
When we moved to St. Petersburg, there were only two circles, and the cost was half the price.
But that doesn't mean the horses have gotten any less enthusiastic about their work. Anyone interested can sign their kid up for riding lessons.
When we first visited the zoo, it was tough to look at some of the animals. Their enclosures were tiny, grimy, and smelled awful.
But at the other end of the zoo, there were already new enclosures standing idle. It was clear they'd been built a while back, but never put into use.
I've noticed that some of the animals have been relocated to a new enclosure.
The tiger and its friends have moved to a new glass enclosure on the other side of the zoo. To be honest, it's been a bit neglected since it was empty for a while.
The giraffe is still in its original enclosure, though.
At first glance, it looks abandoned, but it's actually home to the last remaining giraffe.
I was surprised that the zoo gave him a pretty large, albeit neglected, enclosure.
The giraffe is super friendly and loves to get up close to the enclosure. One time, my partner was standing there, and I thought, 'Okay, I'll get a great shot of this animal in the background...' and the animal just sneezed right onto my husband's shoulder.
If you spend too much time walking around the zoo, you can stumble upon some hidden corners of history. There are no signs or labels here at all.
It's possible that this was some sort of initiative at one point, but now it just looks like a dump.
Even the relatively new enclosures look neglected and out of date.
Every year, this place looks more and more like a jungle. I'm really sorry for all the animals stuck here.
I was shocked by the dirty enclosures and tiny cages the zoo has for these poor animals. It's not exactly what I'd call a comfortable living space.
Summer. Crowd around the enclosure with the white bear
Autumn. Crowd around the Predators
It's almost impossible to get around the zoo on a decent day. The weather's usually too bad, and the crowds are massive.
The ticket prices are going up every year. I mean, last year it was 600 rubles, and now it's 700. That's just ridiculous.
This souvenir shop is basically the zoo's gift shop. The equestrian club is a big part of it, with many animals being cared for by third-party individuals. It's hard to believe the St. Petersburg Zoo is claiming to have enough funds to provide decent care for the animals and a nice facility. This zoo is essentially a slap in the face to the city.
During my research for this review, I came across an interview with the zoo's director and government officials discussing the zoo's potential relocation outside the city. It all starts to make sense... The St. Petersburg Zoo was opened in 1865. It's survived three emperors, witnessed the revolution, endured the war, the blockade, and the collapse of the Soviet Union... only to be closed down due to poor management?
It's clear that the St. Petersburg Zoo is slowly dying out. New animals aren't being introduced, and the old ones are passing away. At this rate, one of Russia's oldest zoos will be nothing but a memory in five years, replaced by a 25-story skyscraper.
I really hope I'm wrong about this.
live_helpFeatured FAQ
What's the best way to get to the St. Petersburg Zoo from the city center?
The zoo is easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and trams. You can also take a taxi or ride-hailing service, or walk/bike from nearby neighborhoods.
Are there any discounts or promotions available for zoo visitors?
Yes, the zoo offers discounts for students, seniors, and groups, and has special promotions and events throughout the year.
Can I bring my pet to the zoo?
No, pets are not allowed inside the zoo, with the exception of service animals. Please leave your furry friends at home to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Are there any dining options available at the zoo?
Yes, the zoo has a few cafes and snack stands throughout the park, and you can also bring your own food and enjoy a picnic in the nearby park.
Can I get a refund or exchange if I'm not satisfied with my visit?
Yes, the zoo offers refunds or exchanges for visitors who are not satisfied with their experience. Please contact the zoo's customer service team to arrange a refund or exchange.
Are there any special events or exhibits at the zoo?
Yes, the zoo hosts various events and exhibits throughout the year, including animal encounters, educational programs, and seasonal festivals. Be sure to check their website for updates on upcoming events.
Can I get a map or guide of the zoo?
Yes, the zoo provides maps and guides for visitors. You can pick one up at the entrance or download a digital version from their website.
Are there any wheelchair or stroller accessibility options at the zoo?
Yes, the zoo is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with ramps and elevators throughout the park. Please contact the zoo's customer service team for more information.
check_circlePros
- •The zoo's small size makes it easy to navigate with kids, and the nearby park is a great spot for a picnic.
- •There are some initiatives that show promise, such as the recent additions of new animal species.
- •The zoo's location near the Petropavlovskaya Fortress is a major draw for tourists.
- •The zoo's staff is generally friendly and knowledgeable, making for a pleasant visit.
- •The zoo's history and cultural significance are undeniable, making it a must-see for locals and visitors alike.
- •The zoo's proximity to other popular attractions in St. Petersburg makes it a convenient addition to any itinerary.
- •The zoo offers discounts for students, seniors, and groups, and has special promotions and events throughout the year.
- •The zoo has a few cafes and snack stands throughout the park, and you can also bring your own food and enjoy a picnic in the nearby park.
cancelCons
- •The zoo's outdated enclosures and lack of modern amenities make for a subpar experience.
- •Many of the animals appear tired and stressed, which is heartbreaking to see.
- •There are too many empty enclosures and exhibits, which detracts from the overall experience.
- •The zoo's lack of interactive navigation makes it difficult for visitors to find what they're looking for.
- •The zoo is missing many popular animal species, including elephants, hippos, and rhinos.
- •The zoo's overall condition is in dire need of repair and reconstruction.
- •The zoo can be difficult to get to, especially for those without a car.
- •The zoo's hours of operation can be confusing, and it's best to check their website for updates.
