The Phoenix Zoo celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. That may seem old, but it is actually one of the younger zoos in the country. Not only is it a successful zoo, but it is a privately owned nonprofit zoo. That means that it operates strictly without any government funding. You can enjoy the Phoenix Zoo in the summer, too. My favorite exhibits are the ones on the Arizona Trail. I just never tire of seeing those gila monsters, rattlesnakes, scorpions, and collared peccaries! I also enjoy the African Savannah. Thos wildebeests and Thomson Gazelles conjure up wonderful memories of our trip to Kenya several years ago. The Phoenix Zoo opens earlier in the summer, so you can beat the midday heat!