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Guide to Florida

Cool zoos

A zoo that offers a genuine escape from the heat rather than just another humid walk through the sun.

Based on 407 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Animal EDventure Park & Safari image 1
Animal EDventure Park & Safari image 2
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Wildlife and safari park

Wildlife park offers intimate animal encounters with kangaroos, sloths, and otters in a family-oriented, welcoming atmosphere. The setting is immaculately maintained and decorated with festive seasonal themes, creating a personal and engaging experience for all ages.

Walkthrough safari tours feature zebras, camels, monkeys, and capybaras with chances to feed many animals. VIP tours include an otter swim experience and showcase a large variety of animals cared for with genuine love.

Private tours with spider monkeys Eleanor and Frankie offer a unique animal interaction. Getting close to various animals creates a memorable experience.

People are saying

"The guides here are so knowledgeable and make the fun activities really special."

"The park guides are so knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the animals."

"It's a super cool experience, especially for the little ones."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, so visitors should book in advance.

2

Denim jeans are required attire for visitors.

3

You should not show up early because you are held at the gate outside until your check-in time.

02
Hogan's Place Gibsonton Florida image 1

Small farm with petting zoo, pony rides, and interactive play areas creates a cozy, peaceful atmosphere. Spacious, well-kept grounds offer plenty of room for kids to run and explore. Clean environment combines with charming photo spots and a covered barn for games and music.

Clean and well-organized, this petting zoo offers a wide variety of animals and plenty of chances for close, hands-on encounters. It provides a family-friendly environment that entertains toddlers and older kids alike.

A cool little spot offers a chance for young kids to feed farm animals. It works well as a short stop to stretch and enjoy.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly; you can ride ponies and feed baby goats."

"I loved holding the bunnies and feeding the friendly animals at this petting zoo."

"It's a cool place for young kids to feed the farm animals."

Good to know

1

Admission is $5 per person, and children 2 and under enter for free.

2

Parking is free at Hogan's Place.

3

There are many fun activities for children, including an interactive play area.

03
Butterfly Tampa image 1
Tourist attraction

Small, enclosed animal exhibit with quiet, calm atmosphere and beautiful native butterfly garden. Features educational reptile and bug rooms alongside a native plant nursery, offering a mix of exotic and native species in a natural setting. Space feels intimate, suitable for leisurely exploration and learning.

Insect zoo features a variety of butterflies and bugs. A reptile and insect tank adds diversity to the exhibits.

Many cool critters are on display to discover. The native gardens and nursery add unique natural charm.

People are saying

"You'll love the fun activities, especially the adorable critters and butterflies."

"I loved the butterfly zoo; there were so many butterflies flying around."

"The staff here are so passionate and knowledgeable about the animals."

Good to know

1

The educational butterfly release happens at 2pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

2

Admission is $17 for adults and children, despite being advertised as free.

3

Expect a variety of activities including a bug hunt and reptile encounter.

04
Jungle Island image 1

Large park features beautiful light sculptures and a luminous exhibition that create a magical atmosphere reminiscent of a fantasy forest. Families enjoy playgrounds, splash parks, and treetop adventures that offer active fun for children. The setting combines unique art displays with outdoor activities, making it a relaxing yet engaging place despite urban surroundings.

Offers a solid family day out with animals and includes parking. Focuses more on entertainment than deep conservation or education. Suitable for visitors who want a straightforward zoo experience.

Iguanas roam freely in the trees, adding a wild touch. The Illuminoso night walk offers a visually stimulating experience for all ages. Kids enjoy the treetop ropes course and stunt shows with martial arts performances.

People are saying

"It's a really kid friendly place with lots of areas to run around."

"I loved the interactive zoo encounters with parrots and lemurs."

"The illuminated lanterns here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $20, separate from ticket purchases.

2

A mandatory 18% gratuity is added to food and drink orders.

3

Touching and seeing animals up close costs an additional $65 per person.

05
Monkey Jungle image 1

Historic wildlife park offers a natural habitat feel with jungle-like grounds and close monkey interactions. Atmosphere is relaxing and exotic, surrounded by nature with a sense of being out of town. Visitors often find it unique and fun for kids, despite some areas being closed or run-down.

Animals receive good care and have survived through generations here. The zoo offers a unique experience compared to others with similar attractions.

The place offers a super cool experience that stands out during visits. It consistently feels cool and engaging throughout.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly; you can feed the monkeys!"

"It's a cool experience having monkeys jump on you."

"The animals at this zoo are so well cared for and relaxed."

Good to know

1

Entry costs $20 per adult and $10 per child.

2

Half of the park is currently closed for maintenance.

3

The guided tour costs $150 per person, which is required for monkey access.

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