Jungle of the Apes

Jungle of the Apes is one of the must-see exhibits at the St. Louis Zoo, and since the entire zoo is free, there's zero reason not to check it out. The exhibit houses gorillas, orangutans, and chimpanzees in both indoor and outdoor habitats connected by overhead tunnels.

The indoor viewing area is the main draw. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels give you an incredibly close look at the great apes. The western lowland gorillas are the stars — the family group has distinct personalities and watching them interact is endlessly entertaining. Sometimes a young gorilla will come right up to the glass and make eye contact with your toddler.

The orangutans are on the other side, typically more chill but equally fascinating. Kids love watching them use tools and swing on ropes. On warm days, the apes use the outdoor habitats and overhead O-Line system.

The exhibit gets crowded fast on weekends. Arrive before 10am to have the viewing areas more or less to yourself. By noon, the indoor area is packed.

Since this is in the center of the zoo, it makes a natural midpoint. Start at River's Edge, work your way to the apes, then finish with the sea lions.

The whole zoo is free — genuinely one of the best deals in American family travel. Parking is $15 in the zoo lot, but MetroLink runs right to the entrance.