Oklahoma City Zoo Nominated for 3 USA Today Awards

Not that long ago, we had a two special places in Oklahoma nominated for a few awards with USA Today: the best museum and the best immersive experience. Now, we have another nomination that Oklahomans everywhere can vote on.

The Oklahoma City Zoo was recently nominated for a few categories: best zoo, best zoo exhibit, and best zoo membership. From now until March 18, 2026, anyone who wants to see them win can vote once per day per each category.

There's a reason these exhibits are made so thoughtfully designed, and why the members at the OKC Zoo play a vital role.

OKC Zoo staff urging visitors to vote and "let your voice be heard."

Although the award might seem superficial, the OKC Zoo staff are hoping that all of the hard work they've put in over the years will be recognized with something as special as this.

“We’re asking OKC Zoo fans from across the state and around the world to take a minute to support us with their votes,” said Dr. Dwight Lawson, Executive Director and CEO of the OKC Zoo.

“Each one of these categories represents years of hard work on the part of our staff and volunteers combined with the steadfast support of our community. If you love the Zoo, please let your voice be heard.”

Years of hardwork doesn't just mean feeding animals each day at the OKC Zoo.

They're an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and lead conservation efforts, both locally and nationally, in order to preserve wildlife and wild places.

One of the most visited exhibits, Expedition Africa, is specifically nominated for the "Best Zoo Exhibit" by USA Today. Their other nomination for Best Zoo Membership is for the ZOOfriends program.

The ZOOfriends membership gives members 12 months of free general admission, discount admissions to other zoos and aquariums, and other benefits.

The last day to vote is on March 18, and everyone can vote once for each category every day. So support the Oklahoma City Zoo and vote here.