Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park have once again claimed top national honors in the 2025 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, securing first place in every category for the third year in a row.
Best Zoo – Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (Third consecutive win)
Best Safari Park – Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park (Fifth consecutive win)
Best Zoo Membership – Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (First-time nominee and winner)
Best Zoo Exhibit – Desert Dome (Sixth consecutive win for Best Zoo Exhibit; second for Desert Dome)
“These honors reflect the love and dedication that we receive from our team members and our community every day,” said Dr. Luis Padilla, president and CEO of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. “This title means that our team, our members and our community can proudly celebrate that they are part of creating something that is the best in the country.”
Dr. Padilla continued, “We humbly share in these accomplishments with our community and everyone who makes us great – we thank you, yet again, for these honors.”
For the first time, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium has also been recognized for Best Zoo Membership. For a limited time, new and renewing members can save up to $20 on a membership. The #1 Zoo Membership in the nation grants unlimited visits to the nation’s top Zoo, discounts, members-only benefits and more.
USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards are awarded through public voting, with nominees for all categories selected by a panel of relevant experts. Voting took place from February 12 through March 10, and winners were officially announced on the 10Best website.