NEWTON, Mass., May 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --TripAdvisor, the world's largest travel site*, today announced the top 10 zoos in the United States, according to the TripAdvisor Popularity Index. Animal aficionados of all ages can take in an array of scales and tails at these animated attractions.

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1. Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha's famous zoo boasts the Desert Dome the largest indoor desert in the world, which spans 84,000 square feet and is home to a variety of vegetation and a colony of critters. Travelers can also take in the Lied Jungle, a rainforest setting featuring cascading waterfalls and monkeys jumping from tree to tree. "It's a wonderful education for children and adults," commented a TripAdvisor traveler.Admission costs $13.50 for adults (ages 12 and up), $12.50 for seniors, and $9 for children (ages three to 11); children under two get in for free.

2. St. Louis Zoo, Saint Louis, Missouri

Home to more than 650 animals, this popular Midwest zoo features creatures of all kinds. Travelers can immerse themselves in the ten-acre River's Edge exhibit, a naturalistic habitat featuring roaming hyenas, hippos, elephants and more. Feathered friends-galore can be spotted at the Penguin and Puffin Coast, while Bear Bluffs boasts some less cuddly beasts, such as Grizzlies, Andeans and Sloth bears. "This is a great zoo and the fact that it's free is wonderful for families on a budget," said one TripAdvisor traveler. Admission is free, but some attractions require a small fee.

3. Cape May County Park & Zoo, Cape May Court House, New Jersey

Situated on the southern Jersey Shore, this wildlife sanctuary showcases more than 250 species of animals. Travelers can acquaint themselves with a bevy of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and furry friends and,when notgawking at quadrupeds, can wander through one of the lush nature trails, or hop on the train and carousel rides. A TripAdvisor traveler noted, "If you and your family like to see animals treated in a fair and humane way and enjoy a wonderful park setting, the Cape May County Park and Zoo is the place to go." Admission is free.

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TripAdvisor Takes A Walk On The Wild Side With America's Top 10 Zoos