Orlando’s best-known animal attractions may come in the form of SeaWorld and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, but these are far from the only places where you can experience breathtaking wildlife. If you want to experience some great animals at a fraction of what a theme park ticket will cost, head to the Central Florida Zoo for an unforgettable experience.
1. You can feed the giraffes
Image: Central Florida Zoo
At Animal Kingdom, you may get up close and personal with a giraffe if you’re lucky, but that only happens on the rare occasion when one is feeling friendly toward the safari trucks. At the Central Florida Zoo, you’ll have a much easier time connecting with these beauties. Every day from 10:00am to 3:00pm, you can feed the giraffes for just $5.00 per person.
2. The reptile collection is superb
Image: Central Florida Zoo
The reptile collection at the Central Florida Zoo includes approximately 6,000 different species, making it the largest collection of venomous snakes and non-venomous reptiles in the Southeast. The Herpetarium houses snakes, frogs, and lizards in an impressive collection that’s much bigger than anything else you’ll find in the area.
3. You can pet animals in the barnyard
Image: Central Florida Zoo
If the giraffe feedings didn’t give you enough face time with live animals, head to the Barnyard Buddies Children’s Zoo. Here you’ll find pygmy and boer goats, llamas, alpacas, and more. Feedings begin at 11:00am and continue while the food lasts. Show up as early as you can for the best experience.
4. The ZOOm Air Adventures offer a treetop view
Image: Central Florida Zoo
You can enjoy a truly unique look at the zoo with the ZOOm Air Adventures course. This course includes bridges, zip lines, and suspended disks that let you look down on the park from above. Move like an animal through the canopy of the trees with this unique adventure. ZOOm Air Adventures is operated by a separate company and does have its own admission. The kids’ course is for children at least 4 years old and between 36” and 60” tall. The Upland course is for participants over 54” tall.
5. The splash pad is included for free
Image: Central Florida Zoo
There’s no question that Central Florida can become almost unbearably hot, particularly during the summer months. The zoo is prepared to help you cool down with a stunning water playground, included with your admission. The Splash Ground features raining trees, a bucket dump, and several animal-themed features. Though it’s open year-round, the Splash Ground does close if the temperature is below 60 degrees.
6. You can ride a 1/5-scale train
Image: Central Florida Zoo
Champ the Train is a 1/5-scale replica of the Florida East Coast Champion. The train circles a mile-long track and offers a unique look at the wetlands and woods. It also travels through a 110-foot tunnel. Life-size animal images decorate the trail, giving you plenty of fun things to look for. The train opens at 10:00am daily and closes at 4:00pm on weekdays and 5:00pm on weekends.
7. Children can get hands-on with insects
Image: Central Florida Zoo
If your children love to get out and explore the world of creepy-crawlies, they’ll love the Massey Services Insect Zoo at the Central Florida Zoo. This area includes both live and mounted specimens so you can get a good look at the various creatures on display. In the children’s play area, you’ll find puppets, puzzles, and costumes to take the exploration to a new level.
8. The animal exhibits are extensive
Image: Central Florida Zoo
The Central Florida Zoo is home to nearly 200 species and more than 500 animals. The mammal exhibits include a stunning array of creatures including bats, camels, North American river otters, two-toed sloths, and warthogs. Fans of the great cats won’t be disappointed with cougars, cheetahs, clouded leopards, and black-footed cats on hand. Whether you’re interested in exploring an African plain or lush jungle, you’ll finds lots to take in.
If you’re looking for an animal experience that won’t take a huge chunk out of your vacation budget, the Central Florida Zoo is an excellent alternative to the theme parks. Fill an extra day here for less than $20 a person and enjoy an up-close experience with hundreds of stunning creatures.
