1. The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Where is it? Cincinnati
What is it? The Cincinnati Zoo is the second-largest zoo in the United States. More than 1.5 million people visit the zoo annually, and it features more than 500 animals and 3,000 plant species.
Why go? The Cincinnati Zoo is home to some of the country’s most loved animals; a trip to Cincinnati isn’t complete without getting a selfie with famous hippo Fiona, who was born prematurely, and whose journey to health became a viral sensation. The zoo just announced a $150 million capital campaign to add more space for elephants, rhinos and kangaroos, as well as a beer garden (for human visitors only), expected to open in 2020.