Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens

If you're visiting the Big Island with kids, Panaewa Rainforest Zoo is the kind of hidden gem that makes parents look like heroes. It's completely free, open every day, and nestled inside a genuine tropical rainforest — which means the animals aren't just in cages, they're surrounded by lush jungle vegetation that makes the whole experience feel immersive.

The star attraction is the white Bengal tiger, Namaste — one of the rarest animals you'll see at any zoo anywhere, let alone a free county zoo. Kids who've seen hundreds of regular tigers at zoos across the country consistently flip out seeing the white coat and blue eyes up close. The viewing area has great sightlines and the enclosure is surprisingly large.

Beyond the big cat, the zoo has over 80 animals including pygmy hippos, flamingos, capybaras, and a variety of tropical birds. Peacocks roam the grounds completely free-range, which means young kids often spend as much time chasing peacocks down the paths as looking at anything in an exhibit.

The Saturday afternoon petting zoo is a big hit with kids ages 2-7. For about 30 minutes, kids can feed and pet goats, rabbits, and other small animals. It fills up, so arrive by 1:30PM to get a good spot.

The paths are wide, paved, and stroller-friendly throughout. There are clean restrooms with changing facilities near the entrance. The only real downside is zero food options on-site, so pack snacks and water. The surrounding area is actual rainforest, so bug spray is non-negotiable — especially for morning visits when humidity is highest.

For families staying in Kona, it's about a 90-minute drive, which is long but worth pairing with a visit to Rainbow Falls or the Hilo Farmers Market. For families based in Hilo, this should be a standard Tuesday morning outing.