23 Zoos in FLORIDA (Enchanting, Picturesque, & Heavenly)
Florida is known for its breathtaking wildlife parks, guaranteed to please people.
They are considered wildlife whisperers who provide ecosystems and fascinating habitats.
In Florida, you get to see one-of-a-kind, beautiful creatures.
You also get to understand how they move naturally.
If you want to cross something off your bucket list, visiting the zoos in Florida might be a good start!
A zoo is a recreational place for animals of various kinds where humans find delight.
It doesn’t just bring us happiness; it also educates us on the importance of wildlife preservation.
This article contains the 23 zoos located in Florida.
At each of these incredible locations, you will have a general wildlife experience and learn more about the importance of wildlife preservation.
If you are a wildlife lover, rejoice!
This list is for you.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best National Parks in Florida.
Zoos in Miami, Florida
1. Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens
Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens, also known as Zoo Miami, is regarded as the largest zoo in Florida.
You can enjoy feeding the giraffes, rhinos, and other animals!
Zoo Miami also offers out-of-door exhibits, such as Feast with the Beasts and Meet the Zookeeper.
You can also access their rides, like pedal boats and safari tram tours.
They provide benches and a summer house where you can spend your rest stops.
You don’t have to worry about your children because this is a kid-friendly zoo that ensures a safe range and provides aftercare.
If you want to paint walls, Zoo Miami is the perfect place to go!
They authorize guests to fill the zoo’s unoccupied walls with different wildlife perspectives.
Your artwork can inspire someone!
Address: 12400 SW 152 Street, Miami, FL 33177
2. Jungle Island
Are you looking for a variety of thrilling activities?
Then, jungle Island is perfect for you!
They feature outdoor activities like spiderweb climbs, climbing ropes, and a balance beam.
Experience feeding the American Flamingos and embrace the beauty of sloth encounters.
After doing the activities, let yourself enjoy the breeze of the admirable flora and fauna that come from the Florida Everglades.
For company picnics, Jungle Island also offers majestic event spaces, world-class atmospheres, and top-rated menus for you and your colleagues.
Is it possible to experience wildlife encounters and a beach breeze at the same time?
The answer is yes!
Joia Beach, located on Jungle Island, offers a variety of dishes where you can taste fresh seasonal ingredients while enjoying the magic of the beach.
Address: 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, FL 33132
3. Zoological Wildlife Foundation
For some reason, tending to stay very close to a wolf will most likely remain a dream.
But the Zoological Wildlife Foundation (ZWF) can make that dream happen.
Unlike regular zoos, you can enjoy an unforgettable close-up encounter with the animals at ZWF.
You can also experience a one-on-one session with lions, alligators, and other animals!
Make your day more memorable by giving camels their afternoon bites and experiencing a life-changing primate encounter.
Aside from the thrilling and fun encounters with the animals, ZWF also aims to promote enough public wildlife understanding that will assist in safeguarding endangered animal species.
From the intimate encounter with animals to the knowledge it can give, this place of wildlife will surely give you an escapade you won’t forget.
Address: 16225 SW, 172 Ave., Miami, FL 33187
4. Monkey Jungle
Spend a day full of surprises in a place where monkeys are like tourists!
Monkey Jungle is a top-rated exploration facility that offers a variety of fun activities, such as the Monkey Jungle feeding and entering the Amazonian Rainforest.
It also hosts a foundation named Wings of Love, a sanctuary of beautiful caged parrots.
Don’t pass up the opportunity to witness the Java Macaque, a cercopithecine primate native to Southeast Asia, diving into the monkey pool to hunt for snacks and bites.
The Cameron Gorilla Forest is the home of a massive silverback gorilla, and seeing one will need a lot of patience.
But it’s going to be so fun and worth the wait!
Posting for photos with the monkey is both permitted and encouraged.
Address: 14805 SW 216th St., Miami, FL 33170-2299
5. Miami Seaquarium
Miami Seaquarium, situated near downtown Miami, provides an immense habitat where magical and talented sea creatures currently reside.
Lolita, the oldest living killer whale in captivity, can also be found at the Miami Seaquarium.
Guests can also walk the trails and have a shallow-water encounter with the wise and lively harbor seals.
You can even swim with them for 15-20 minutes.
One of the place’s best features is the underwater walking journey, which offers a refreshing vibe.
Dolphin encounters are the best!
Allow yourself to fall in love with dolphins by giving them training signals and discovering the magic of their touch.
Enormous coral bommies and gorgeous sea fans are waiting for you.
If you’re in Miami, don’t miss this phenomenal Seaquarium; you’ll be amazed!
Address: 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
6. Everglades National Park
Are you a big fan of alligators?
If so, this might be a good option for you.
Everglades National Park is a river where crocodiles and alligators coexist.
This place offers miles-long scenic trails, rare orchids, and sawgrass prairies.
The park is also famous for its rich bird life, including bald eagles, osprey, wood stork, and little blue heron.
Many private tour operators offer lots of activities.
Some of these are airboats and swamp buggy excursions.
You can enjoy the day with fun kayak activities and indulge yourself at the Ivey House Bed and Breakfast.
Try watching the alligator wrestling techniques after your kayak journey.
You can also visit the restaurant to try the alligator sausage they offer.
It might become your new favorite dish!
Address: Miami-Dade, Florida
Also see our article on Safari in Florida.
Zoos in Orlando, Florida
1. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
If you dreamt of being transported into a place that screams nothing but pure splendor, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park might be the best choice.
From exciting and ever-magical adventures to encountering exotic animals, this theme park in Orlando, Florida, is one of the world’s largest animal theme parks ever built.
With more than 2,000 animals and 300 unique species homing the place, this park also reflects Walt Disney’s animal conservation, care, education, and research aim.
Be bewildered as you immerse yourself in the six awe-inspiring lands of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, namely: The Oasis, which features exotic animals; Pandora – The World of Avatar, which showcases spectacular sights; Discovery Island, which offers self-guided tours and family-friendly entertainments; DinoLand U.S.A., a famous realm, especially for youngsters and those young at heart; Africa and Asia, where both exotic and legendary animals await you!
Address: 2901 Osceola Pkwy, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, United States
2. SeaWorld Orlando
If you want an unforgettable experience in the aquatic world, SeaWorld Orlando, one of Orlando’s four major theme parks, is the place to go!
This theme park is one of the few places in the world that offers excellent sightseeing of beautiful animals, including otters, penguins, dolphins, sharks, and many more.
Furthermore, to get the most out of your theme park visit, you should ride Mako, Orlando’s tallest, longest, and fastest roller coaster ride.
Also, you can have fun with your family, friends, and partner by enjoying events and shows offered by SeaWorld Orlando.
You can also visit Sharks Underwater Grill, where you can enjoy watching the sea creatures while eating.
And if you are a fan of keepsakes and souvenirs, worry not because SeaWorld gives you free items in exchange for cards you can get from any SeaWorld education representative.
How to get cards?
Ask them a question, provide information regarding the exhibits, and you’ll get free cards.
In SeaWorld Orlando, there’s no time in the present to make a passive escape.
Address: 7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821, United States
3. Brevard Zoo
With the mission “Wildlife conservation through education and participation,” this world-class zoo is a hub where people gather to learn about animals, nature, and conservation.
Brevard Zoo contains four loops: Expedition Africa, Lands of Change: Australia and Beyond, Wild Florida, and Rainforest Revealed.
Visiting all four of them is a to-do list upon visiting Brevard Zoo.
The zoo offers its visitors many interactive experiences, such as feeding exotic birds, giraffes, and other animals.
For further enjoyment, visiting the children’s water play area is a brilliant choice, especially for families.
You can also go kayaking around the natural habitats of animals to sightsee and appreciate the beauty of the zoo from overhead through the ever-spectacular Treetop Trek by climbing, zip-lining, and many more.
Address: 8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32940, United States
4. Gatorland
This 110-acre theme park in Orlando, Florida, is named the “Alligator Capital of the World,” homing thousands of alligators, crocodiles, and other animals.
They even have the most extensive collection of leucistic alligators – an extremely rare type.
With a fee that will not rip off your pockets, surely it won’t put a “bite” on your trip and tour to the place.
For 25 bucks (adults) and 17 bucks (children around 3-12 years old), there is no better experience outside Gatorland.
From nature walks and gift shops to jaw-dropping reptilian shows and enjoyable rides, your thirst for adventure will surely be sufficient.
Gatorland is more than just about alligators and crocs.
It also prides itself on providing informational exhibits to its guests.
What are you waiting for?
Be enthralled by this magnificent park!
Address: 14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32837, United States
5. Jungle Adventures Nature Park & Zoo
This place is home to many rare animals like the Florida panthers, black bears, wolves, and white-tailed deer.
You can also see other species here, such as tropical birds, reptiles, mammals, and many more.
In Jungle Adventures, you can see, hear, smell, and feel natural Florida!
This attraction offers a variety of experiences ideal for family and friends.
Upon admission to the place, you can try boat riding while enjoying the wildlife and animals of many kinds.
It is recommended that children wear closed-toed shoes for a more comfortable experience.
Enjoy the many shows that the place also offers.
Note to everyone, though, only try feeding the animals or wildlife, especially with the guidance of experts.
Although their Jungle Swamp operates at full capacity, with bad weather, operating the area is affected.
Thus, reviewing and checking for scheduling updates from your show guide during your visit is best.
Address: 26205 E Colonial Dr, Christmas, FL 32709, United States
Also see our article on Horseback Riding in Florida.
Zoos in Tampa, Florida
1. ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Want to experience wildlife like nowhere else?
At ZooTampa, you’ll tap into your wild side and make a memorable animal experience worth treasuring for a lifetime.
There are 1300 animals of different types that can be seen in this place.
You can even form extraordinary natural bonds with the animals here as guests and visitors are allowed to get closer to the animals, maybe by feeding giraffes and being touchy with giant tortoises, Indian rhinos, and stingrays.
With your family, enjoying the water play areas and feeling the thrill of different water rides through your spine is a must.
ZooTampa not only entertains people.
It also boasts itself as a zoo that takes part in animal care and preservation.
Address: 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604, United States
2. Busch Gardens
This place is a popular tourist destination that offers more than just a typical zoo.
In addition, there are concerts scheduled all day long.
More than 12,000 animals consider the park home, making it one of the most prominent zoos in North America.
The zoo is a great place to exercise while learning about the animals and their habitats.
They also allow visitors to interact with animals.
The Serengeti Plain is an open space where visitors can observe wildlife in their natural environment, measuring 65 acres.
You can visit the location, like the Penguin Insider Tour, or go on the Serengeti Safari.
Busch Gardens Tampa is a terrific place for an adrenaline rush since, aside from animal-related entertainment, it also boasts various rollercoasters.
Address: 10165 N McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL, Phone: 813-884-4386
3. Serengeti Safari
In this well-liked excursion offered in Tampa, passengers ride open-air tour vehicles as they traverse the Serengeti Plain, which spans 65 acres.
Guests will receive a one-of-a-kind and intimate view of African animals on the prized Serengeti Safari tour in Florida.
During this thirty-minute off-road excursion, which is led by an experienced guide, tourists will get the chance to touch and feed giraffes and view a variety of exotic creatures, such as zebras, birds, rhinos, and several other types of antelope.
On the tour, you will learn a lot as your knowledgeable guide reveals this incredible ecosystem’s mysteries and fascinating tales.
Be prepared to capture some truly unforgettable moments with your camera, as this journey will leave you with memories that will last forever.
Address: 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, United States
4. Croc Encounters
Croc Encounters is a functional rural tourism site that focuses on teaching and wildlife conservation for reptiles.
Alligators and other snakes are kept at the operation.
In January 2005, Croc Encounters was founded as a sanctuary with the mission of rehoming reptiles that had been abandoned or mistreated.
Although their primary emphasis was on snakes, they have expanded the refuge to include other species of birds and mammals that are no longer wanted.
In addition to functioning as a refuge, the place is an educational center accessible to the general public to host events and visits.
Reservations are required to participate in guided tours.
Don’t worry because their offices are available daily for reservations between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm.
Take note that advance payment is necessary.
Address: 8703 Bowles Rd, Tampa, FL 33637, United States
Also see our article on Dog Breeders in Florida.
Zoos in West Palm Beach, Florida
1. McCarthy’s Wildlife
McCarthy’s Wildlife is an educational facility, a location of restoration, and a refuge for all varieties of natural fauna, including mammals, birds, and reptiles.
It is also a location to watch animals, but it is far more than simply a place for seeing animals that you may visit.
Mark McCarthy, the founder and head of the organization, has a deep and persistent enthusiasm for wildlife.
He has devoted almost all of his life to saving animals, recovering them, and educating many about the importance of conservation.
When you arrive at the place, you will be given a tour during which you will witness a range of creatures that have been saved.
In addition, several large cats, snakes, turtles, birds, and other species will be present for you to interact with personally.
Address: 12943 61st Street North, West Palm Beach, FL 33412, 561 790 2118
2. Palm Beach Zoo
Wildlife has been at the Palm Beach Zoo for more than 50 years, starting with a small collection of farm animals and expanding to the existing population of more than 500 animals.
The zoo aims to encourage visitors to advocate for wildlife and the environment.
It is dedicated to environmentally friendly business methods while promoting wildlife conservation, educating the public, and breeding critically endangered animals.
You may get near and personal with the lorikeets at the Lorikeet Loft, an opportunity you can book in advance of your visit.
You and your kids can ride on the Wildlife Carousel for entertainment or have a short journey on the Safari Train.
There are eleven presentations and talks presented each day at the zoo.
Animal feedings and other shows are also available to view.
Address: 1301 Summit Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL, Phone: 561-547-9453
Also see our article on Dog-Friendly Activities in Florida.
Zoos in Sarasota, Florida
1. Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Since its opening in 1939, Sarasota Jungle Gardens has provided visitors of all ages, from toddlers to grandparents, with fantastic opportunities to engage with various animals.
The only days of the year that the gardens are closed are on special holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens encompass over 10 acres of unique landscape linked by twisting trails.
They are also habitat to more than 200 wildlife and birds, some of which are rare and unusual, and numerous species of tiny mammals.
Every day, the Gardens put on four different animal presentations that are entertaining and informative.
The gardens are excellent for hosting kids’ birthday parties, and visitors can also book private wildlife encounters.
Address: 3701 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, Fl 34234, 941 355 5305
2. Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary
The zoo is a non-profit rescue center that was created in 2005.
Its primary mission is to offer a secure, comfortable, and safe place to live for local and exotic species, emphasizing big cats.
Many of the animals were once kept as pets, but they have outlived their usefulness and now need to find a permanent residence where they can spend the remaining years of their lives in peace and comfort.
To ensure their well-being, the center urges everyone to pay a visit to the sanctuaries, participate, and lend their support to the many events held to generate money for the animals’ care.
Animals, such as sloths, foxes, lemurs, and tigers, serve as wildlife ambassadors.
In addition, guests can book unique one-on-one animal interactions with a selection of resident animals.
Address: 7101 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34232, 941 371 6377
3. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Mote Aquarium, conveniently located only a few minutes from downtown Sarasota is open the whole year and is excited to greet you.
Guests can investigate interactive pools, practical learning exhibits, and views into the laboratory’s conservation and studies efforts.
So come down, have a great time, and discover why Science is the main draw here!
All the amenities are accessible to visitors if you purchase a general admission ticket.
Tickets can only be purchased in advance through the website.
Additionally, members are required to reserve their seats in advance at mote.org/membership.
Each ticket will have an arrival period of fifteen minutes that the passenger must arrive inside, and the final entry period will be at four o’clock every day.
The main entrance will be the starting point for the experience for all visitors and members.
Address: 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236-1004
Also see our article on Hidden Gems in Florida.
Zoos in Naples, Florida
1. Kowiachobee Animal Preserve
In addition to being a place for teaching and study, Kowiachobee also serves as a refuge for natural, exotic, and domesticated animals injured or suffering.
The community is welcome to attend talks and presentations in exchange for a donation.
Kowachobee Animal Preserve is a non-profit educational and rescue organization.
There are well over hundred different animals for your children to observe, and they will even get the opportunity to feed some of them themselves.
Animals include goats, hogs, miniature pot-belly pigs, unusual mammals, exotic birds, amphibians, and twelve different species of big cats!
Address: 2861 4th Ave SE, Naples, FL 34117, United States
2. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
As a humanitarian organization and zoo of national renown, the Naples Zoo serves the community for free.
Follow the mile-long paved trails that wind through lush tropical vegetation and exotic wildlife.
A historic garden began landscaping in 1919 and is the home of all those unusual plants.
You can view exotic animals as you stroll the grounds.
More than 350,000 people visit the zoo each year, allowing the zoo to fulfill its educational and environmental goals.
The zoo also gives back to the community by protecting endangered species and preserving rare animal species by planting over 25,000 trees annually in these regions.
If you visit the Naples Zoo, don’t just go on a walking tour and look at the animals; make a point to stop by the Giraffe Feeding exhibit.
In addition, there are presentations broadcast every day and weekly Keeper Talks.
You can witness creatures that generally wouldn’t be seen or only associate with caretakers during these performances.
Address: 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples, FL, Phone: 239-262-5409
3. NGALA Wildlife Preserve
NGALA is a remarkable wildlife sanctuary that is the best possible site for hosting one-of-a-kind weddings, corporate gatherings, and other private social events.
Their luxury tents provide the perfect setting for each one of their special events, where guests can enjoy genuine entertainment and delectable cuisine while getting up close and personal with rare and exotic animals.
In addition, this unique event can be found only minutes away from all of the hotels, resorts, and airports in Southwest Florida.
Indeed, you will leave this place with lifelong memories that will last a lifetime and an experience you will not soon forget.
Address: 2755 Inez Rd, Naples, FL 34117-2906
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Aquariums, Botanical Gardens, and State Parks in Florida.
Looking beyond Florida? Check out our article on the best Zoos in Illinois and New York’s finest Zoos.