We went right at opening time 9AM hoping to avoid not only the heat but the crowds. Even thought the Zoo opened at 9 most of the exhibits didn't open till 1000. By that time we had lost an hour toward more heat and crowds.
If you're going to open at 9, open everything possible at 9.
The baby elephant exhibit was not worth the wait.

we loved all the anmals the baby elephant was so cute all the babies were.
we could see all the animals 'good viewing' for as busy as it was on the holiday weekend
we liked the park layout
we had a wonderful time this was a great zoo well worth the money and drive there
we would recommend that everyone see it
the only thing you could change would be the map of the park could of been easier to read.

It is my favorite zoo to visit. The animals are well taken care of and the atmosphere is friendly. Make sure to check out the aqaurium. It's breathtaking.