There is only one tropical zoo in the United States, and it is in Hilo. Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo holds more than 80 animal species, including nēnē geese, spider monkeys, and lemurs, with labeled orchids, bamboo, and giant palms throughout the grounds that give it the feel of a botanical garden as much as a zoo.
Plan for one to two hours. Shade is consistent across most of the grounds, but this is a genuine rainforest in Hilo: bring mosquito repellent and rain gear, because both are more useful here than you might expect. The petting zoo is Saturdays only; check the animal feeding schedule at the entrance before you start walking the grounds.
The Panaʻewa Zoo is a small tropical zoo in Hilo, good for a one-hour family visit
Animal Encounters, Petting Zoo, and Playground
Animal encounters and scheduled feedings run throughout the day several days of the week, and a petting zoo on Saturdays only. There is also a large playground on the grounds, useful if you have young kids who need a break from the animal walk. Check the event schedule before you go.
Playground and covered patio at the Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo in Hilo.
The Botanical Garden Side of the Zoo
The zoo was not planned as a botanical garden, but the labeled plants and trees throughout the grounds make it feel like one. Orchids, palms, bamboo, and a water garden are scattered across the paths, all identified with signs.
The Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo in Hilo, Hawaiʻi, doubles as a botanical tropical garden
How Long Should You Spend at Panaʻewa Zoo?
The zoo is compact; plan on one to two hours to walk the full loop and catch at least one animal encounter.
Map of the Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens in Hilo, Big Island. Map retrieved from source in June 2026.
Hours, Admission, and What to Bring
Opening Hours and Admission
The zoo is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM except on Christmas, New Year’s Day, and the first Thursday of each month.
Admission fees depend on whether you are a County of Hawaiʻi resident:
- County of Hawaiʻi residents:
- Adults (18-59) – $4
- Keiki (0-17) – free
- Kupuna (60+) – free
- Adult annual pass – $25
- Non-Residents:
- Adults (18+) – $13
- Children (3-17) – $5
- Infants (0-2) – free
Prices increase $1 per year for non-residents and $1 every three years for County of Hawaiʻi residents.
The admission fees help support the zoo’s long-term future by funding staff, equipment, and daily operations. They also contribute toward the zoo’s work to gain professional accreditation through the Zoological Association of America (ZAA), which ensures higher standards of animal care and facilities.
What to Bring
Bring mosquito repellent, rain gear, and sunscreen. The zoo sits in a real rainforest, which means humidity and the occasional shower regardless of the forecast. Light ponchos and umbrellas are available for purchase at the gift shop if needed.
Visit the Panaʻewa zoo website for more information.