On this date in Missouri History, The St. Louis Zoo is named the best zoo in the nation.

Missourians have always been proud of the St. Louis Zoo, and the world took notice when USA Today announced that the landmark had been named the best zoo by voters. 

To qualify for the voting, the zoo first had to be handpicked by a panel of zoo and travel experts for inclusion on a list of 20 finalists. Making the award more impressive is that many of the other zoological parks on the list charge significant entrance fees, while the St.  Louis Zoo remains free. 

In a case of lions, and tigers, and bears, oh my! – the zoo won the prestigious honor again in 2018 – for a remarkable second year in a row!

Based upon content from the book Missouri 365: This Day in Missouri History by John W. Brown, broadcaster and Missouri historian. Get your copy at Reedy Press.

Photo credit Roger Brandt/St. Louis Zoo