We loved this aquarium. Even though it was a weekend it was not too crowded and people were courteous allowing the kids to get near the glass and see the exhibits. The large tank was awesome and the kids especially enjoyed seeing the sea turtle. They also loved the play area, the man carrying around a baby alligator, and the pepperoni pizza from the snack bar. There weren't any handwashing stations convenient for the kids near the touch tank.

Amazing. huge. My kids' favorites: Dave and Busters, Bass Pro Shop, the (l-o-n-g) train ride, ice cream from dq.

We went to eat at Dave and Busters then set out to explore the mall a little bit. This mall is so big though, it's impossible to just explore it. It warrants a well thought out plan to make sure you get to see everything you'd like to. We walked around quite a bit, rode the train, and there were still things we didn't get to see/do before the mall closed. There were parts of the mall that were very kid-friendly. One area even had a projector displaying lights on the floor and giving instructions for the kids to put this foot here or step on this color, etc.

I could have spent hours there and I'm pretty sure the kids would have hung in there with me.

I went to the aquarium with my twin 3 year olds walking and my 9 month old in a stroller. Yes, the aquarium is a.maz.ing. However...we went on a Friday morning and it was SO CROWDED that it was borderline not enjoyable. The lines to get in were so long that we ended up buying tickets at an electronic kiosk without our zoo reciprocation discount because the lines were much shorter that way. I would NOT go again without buying and printing tickets ahead of time. The lines to see each of animals in the smaller tanks were too long for 3 year olds to handle, and many adults set up camp in front of the glass so we had to lift the kids up or squeeze them in between strangers so they could see many of the exhibits. Same with the touch tank and the few handwashing sinks in that area. The lines for the food and restrooms were ridiculous and again, not conducive for kids who often can't wait very long for either.

I understand bag checks for security, but I had to wake up the baby to get the diaper bag out of the stroller then they questioned me about the water bottle I had brought to make his bottle. They are very strict on the no outside food or drink policy.

The large tanks were awesome and there was enough viewing area that we could enjoy them. The fish feeding in the large tank was certainly a highlight. We also enjoyed the volunteer we met who introduced us to a rare but beautiful fire shrimp.

We loved this zoo!
The good: The gorilla exhibit was amazing. There were many excellent feedings/keeper talks/training sessions through out the day - do not miss the gorilla sessions. Awesome playgrounds. Indoor discovery center entertained kids well (and was perfectly air conditionedl!). We got to see pandas and orangutans. Plenty of easy parking. Reciprocate with many other zoos - We got 50% off admission with our membership cars to the Jacksonville Zoo. I didn't go in but my husband and father in law thoroughly enjoyed the reptile house.
The bad: The train ride is short and goes through very dark tunnels. It doesn't go around the zoo or show the animals like some do. I know it's outdoors and we went in the summer, but the mosquitoes were pretty bad.

The good: The splash pad is huge and perfect to cool off on a hot summer day in the south. The playgrounds are awesome offering lots for the kids to do, shady areas for the parents to sit, and water fountains.

The bad: There is only one small restroom and it's a pretty good hike from the playground.