Leningrad Zoo Museum

Address: Saint Petersburg Zoo (formerly Leningrad Zoo), Saint Petersburg, Russia

The Leningrad Zoo, commonly known today as the St. Petersburg Zoo, is a long-established zoological garden in the city of St. Petersburg, Russia, founded in 1865. It functions as both a public zoo and a centre for species conservation and education.

The zoo exhibits a range of mammals, birds and other animals across indoor and outdoor enclosures adapted for a northern urban climate. It provides educational programmes and participates in breeding and conservation efforts.

Since its founding it has expanded and been rebuilt at various times to modernise facilities and improve animal care. The institution has been an enduring civic attraction in St. Petersburg.

The zoo is located within the urban area of St. Petersburg and is accessible from the city’s public transport network.

• Founding date: Founded in 1865, it is one of Russia’s oldest zoological gardens and has undergone multiple renovations and modernisation projects.

• Go soon after opening on a weekday to see many animals at their most active and to avoid the worst of the visitor queues; the zoo is compact so an early start means you can see the highlights before midday crowds.
• Check the zoo's official website or social channels before you go for current opening hours, temporary closures and scheduled keeper talks or feedings - these change seasonally and are the best way to catch special exhibits.
• Allocate about 2-3 hours for a relaxed visit so you can move between enclosures without rushing and spot quieter corners of the collection away from the main paths.