As a mom on a budget, I am constantly on the look out for free and inexpensive things to do in the area and the St. Louis Zoo will always be at the top of my list. In fact, it seems to be at the top of everyone's list - in early 2017, it was voted the #1 zoo in the country by USA Today and #4 in the world by TripAdvisor!

Not only is it a great place to visit and located in a beautiful park, but admission is free so if you are willing to bring your own snacks and park within the park and walk to the zoo, your entire visit can be free (though I strongly suggest a small purchase of some sort or even a donation to help out with the wonderful exhibits and hard-working staff)!

Earlier this month, just before a cold snap, I made it out to the zoo to take some photos on one of the only nice days of the year so far and I was beyond pleased. The weather had just been in the single digits for days in a row and it was finally peaking around 60 degrees so all of the animals were out and enjoying the nice break. 

brittany lynn imagery st charles mo photography-1-14 Of course, the first thing I did was head to the River's Edge to sneak a glimpse of Kati Rain and her calf, Moyo. Moyo was born on May
17, 2017 - the second Black Rhino calf to be born at the St. Louis Zoo in 26 years - and is allowed free range of both the private and public habitats so he can be rather elusive. Luckily, both Moyo and Kati Rain were out enjoying the weather and what a treat they were!

Another surprise was waiting at the Cypress Swamp where the warm air collided with the cold, icy pond resulting in a wonderful fog that created an atmosphere that can only be described as silent and ominous. When I initially entered the swamp, I was in awe of how beautiful this habitat was and how it felt like I had entered a completely different world; all outside noise was cancelled and the stark silence of nature took over with subtle tones of chirps and tweets from the birds inside. I was in heaven!

As I headed out to my last stop, I had the pleasure of seeing the zebras enjoying the weather, the donkeys running and playing, and even got to play chase with a gazelle ( no really, it was an insane memory that I will never forget)! 

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The final place, the Insectarium, was no exception to the fun. Here, there are tons of bugs but my favorite part of the entire building is the Butterfly house at the end. Filled with tropical plants and tons of winged insects, there is always something marvelous waiting inside. 

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As the cold front moved back in and rain began to fall with dropping temps, my visit was forced to an end and I headed back home to stay warm and marvel and the many wonderful images I was able to make! I'll definitely be back to visit soon but until then, share some of your favorite zoo memories with me!

To learn more about how you can support the St. Louis Zoo, click here!