Frankfurt Zoo
Address
Bernhard-Grzimek-Allee 1, 60316 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Country
germany
Website
https://www.zoo-frankfurt.deOpening Hours
Summer: Daily 9:00-19:00, Winter: Daily 9:00-17:00. Open 365 days a year. Animal houses close 30 minutes before zoo closing time.
Popularity
Very High (850,000+ visitors annually - Germany's second oldest zoo)
Germany's Second Oldest Zoo - Historic Conservation Excellence
Merchant-Founded Heritage Since 1858 Frankfurt Zoo, established in 1858 by Frankfurt's merchant community, stands as Germany's second oldest zoo and one of Europe's most important zoological institutions. Founded by citizens rather than biologists, this unique heritage created a zoo focused on public engagement and education from its inception.
Urban Conservation Oasis Located in Frankfurt's Ostend district just 20 minutes from the city center, this 11-hectare urban sanctuary houses over 4,500 animals representing more than 500 species. The zoo successfully balances dense urban location constraints with excellent animal welfare and visitor experiences.
Scientific Excellence Legacy Named after renowned animal behaviorist Bernhard Grzimek, Frankfurt Zoo carries forward a legacy of scientific research and conservation. The facility leads European conservation efforts while maintaining strong research partnerships and educational programs.
Architectural Innovation The zoo features impressive historic architecture at its entrance combined with cutting-edge animal facilities including the Grzimek House (Europe's largest nocturnal animal house), modern Exotarium, and the immersive Borgori Forest ape house.
Conservation Mission True to its motto "Experience animals - preserve nature," Frankfurt Zoo combines authentic animal experiences with active conservation work, supporting both local Hesse region projects and international conservation initiatives through visitor donations.
Unique Features
- Grzimek House - Europe's largest nocturnal animal house with day/night reversal
- Exotarium - Comprehensive aquarium and terrarium complex
- Borgori Forest - Immersive jungle atmosphere ape house for gorillas and bonobos
- Happy Hour Pricing - Evening discount tickets for affordable access
- Urban Accessibility - Excellent public transport connections in major financial center
Attractions in Frankfurt Zoo
Grzimek House - Nocturnal Animal House
Europe's Premier Nocturnal Experience
Revolutionary Day/Night Reversal The Grzimek House represents Europe's largest and most sophisticated nocturnal animal facility, using advanced lighting systems to reverse day and night cycles, allowing visitors to observe naturally nocturnal species during their active periods.
Facility Innovation:
- Reversed lighting cycle - Day becomes night for natural nocturnal behaviors
- Diverse nocturnal species - Comprehensive collection of night-active animals
- Educational displays - Information about nocturnal adaptations and behaviors
- Research opportunities - Studies on nocturnal animal behavior and physiology
- Unique visitor experience - Rare opportunity to see nocturnal animals active
Conservation Education: Highlights the importance of nocturnal ecosystems and the unique adaptations that allow animals to thrive in darkness.
Scientific Legacy: Named after renowned animal behaviorist Bernhard Grzimek, reflecting Frankfurt Zoo's commitment to behavioral research and education.