Jungle, deciduous forests, and ponds in the middle of the desert. You may say that it is just a mirage. No, it is the Henry Durley Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, Nebraska. A world-famous site, where you can go on a journey through the desert, see the night world and explore the jungle in one day. You can see elephants, dolphins, lizards, and parrots from all over the world and take a ride on a carousel, train, or even camel. And after a long walk, you can relax and listen to one of the daily lectures held for visitors.

On the territory of 53 hectares (10 football fields), there are about 17,000 animals. The complex is the largest zoo in the world.

At the Henry Durley Zoo, you can walk along the paths through the jungle, get through the waterfall to the thick of forests and meet monkeys, tapirs, and a scarlet Ara. Then, you may go to the aquarium to see the marine life of the polar regions or the tropics, sharks or penguins from Antarctica. After that, you can visit the world of butterflies, an entire pavilion of insects from all over the world. And finally, go to the huge geodesic dome imitating the sandy terrain of Africa, Australia, and the southwestern United States. There is an exhibition “The Kingdom of the Night” telling about the life of nocturnal animals.

You can make a trip by yourself or join a guided tour. Besides, you may attend a lecture, or watch a documentary in the cinema at the zoo. People can also visit the animals' show.

There are three restaurants in the zoo, including a cafe on top of a tree, overlooking the forest jungle, and many kiosks with snacks.

Henry Durley Zoo is located in Deer Park, between the Missouri River and the Durham Museum of Western Heritage. You can get here by train, tram, and Skyfari Aerial Tram. The zoo is open daily all year round, except Christmas holidays. The time and cost depend on the season. You can read all the necessary information on the official website.