Oklahoma City Zoo Nominated for Multiple USA Today Awards

Voters can support the zoo by casting daily votes until March 18, 2026.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Oklahoma City Zoo has been nominated for several USA Today awards, including Best Zoo, Best Zoo Exhibit, and Best Zoo Membership. Oklahomans and zoo fans around the world are encouraged to vote once per day in each category until the voting closes on March 18, 2026.

Why it matters

The OKC Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and leads important conservation efforts. These awards would recognize the hard work and dedication of the zoo's staff and volunteers, as well as the steadfast support of the local community.

The details

The zoo's popular Expedition Africa exhibit has been nominated for Best Zoo Exhibit, while the ZOOfriends membership program is up for Best Zoo Membership. The zoo is urging visitors to take a minute to support them by voting, as each vote represents years of work to provide a world-class experience.

  • Voting is open now until March 18, 2026.
  • The OKC Zoo is allowing visitors on Tuesday, December 23 despite the warmer winter weather.

The players

Dr. Dwight Lawson

Executive Director and CEO of the OKC Zoo.

OKC Zoo

An accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums that leads conservation efforts locally and nationally.

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What they’re saying

“We're asking OKC Zoo fans from across the state and around the world to take a minute to support us with their votes.”

— Dr. Dwight Lawson, Executive Director and CEO of the OKC Zoo (z94.com)

What’s next

The last day to vote is on March 18, 2026, and everyone can vote once for each category every day.

The takeaway

This is an opportunity for the Oklahoma community and zoo fans everywhere to show their support for the OKC Zoo's commitment to providing a world-class experience and leading important conservation efforts.