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Guide to Florida

Playgrounds and zoos

You want a day that combines the excitement of a zoo with the utility of a playground. It is the only way to ensure the kids stay engaged all day long.

Based on 542 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Pinecrest Gardens image 1
Pinecrest Gardens image 2
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Botanical garden

Outdoor botanical garden offers beautiful grounds with large banyan trees, ponds, and a variety of plants. Atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing, with shaded paths and quiet green spaces. Features include a well-developed playground, splash pad, and petting zoo, making it popular for families with children.

Musical and animal-themed playground offers fun for kids and adults. The area includes a splash pad with padded surfaces and a petting mini zoo near a lake with swans.

A petting mini zoo features a pot belly pig, goats, chickens, donkeys, rescued rabbits, and a mini steer. A lake with swans and an awesome playground add to the outdoor animal experience.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, peaceful place for kids to explore nature."

"I loved the Sunday farmers market for all the local vendors."

"The playground and splash pad are great for kids."

Good to know

1

The farmers market operates on Sundays from 9 am to 2 pm with local vendors.

2

Admission to Pinecrest Gardens is $5 per person.

3

There are no drinking fountains, so bring your own water.

02
Lion Country Safari image 1
Wildlife and safari park

Wildlife and safari park combines lush tropical settings with a spacious walk-through area and a drive-through safari featuring realistic animal habitats. The atmosphere is peaceful and family-friendly, with well-lit paths and cooling misters enhancing comfort. Amenities include a water park, petting zoo, and various rides, creating a diverse experience for children and adults alike.

Three water areas include big slides, a splash pad, and a water playground. Animal feeding and a petting zoo add extra fun for kids.

A drive-thru safari lets you see animals from your car. A petting zoo offers close animal interaction. Ticket includes a walk-through bird exhibit and animal shows.

People are saying

"This place is so Kid Friendly with a water park and petting zoo."

"The zoo offers so many included activities like rides and a safari."

"The water playground has splash pads and slides for all ages."

Good to know

1

Tickets must be purchased in advance to secure military discounts.

2

Kids under 3 enter for free at Lion Country Safari.

3

The Lanterns and Lights event features interactive activities for all ages.

03
Butterfly World image 1
Tourist attraction

Indoor and outdoor spaces blend with free-roaming butterflies and colorful birds in a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere. Well-maintained gardens, waterfalls, and a vine maze create a zen walking experience with soft background music. Interactive areas include an insect museum, aviary for bird feeding, and a butterfly lab.

An outdoor area offers a playground where kids can run and play after exploring nature. Walking paths surround the playground, making it easy to move around while little ones enjoy the space.

A Bug Zoo features live insects in glass cages with detailed information. A museum showcases various bugs alongside a large zoo with scary creatures on display.

People are saying

"It's a magical place, and the kids enjoyed it a lot."

"I saw so many incredible butterflies and cool birds in the aviaries."

"It's a nice outdoor playground for little kiddos."

Good to know

1

Admission is $1.50 per person to enter Butterfly World.

2

Bring cash to feed the birds, as that activity is cash only.

3

The attraction closes during storms for safety reasons.

04
Enchanted Forest Elaine Gordon Park image 1

Park offers petting zoo and pony rides alongside walking trails and a large pavilion with picnic areas. Atmosphere feels like a quiet jungle oasis, peaceful and safe with enough visitors to avoid emptiness. Greenery and animals create a natural retreat within the city.

Large play areas suit toddlers and older kids, with a mix of an old playground and pony rides. Some issues arise from dogs entering the children's playground.

A petting zoo with friendly animals offers close interaction, including a pony ride and horseback riding. A new area called Bunny Land adds variety to the animal experiences.

People are saying

"I loved petting the horses and other animals at the park."

"The petting zoo here is lovely, especially the horses."

"It's a great playground for toddlers and slightly older kids."

Good to know

1

The park closes around 5 PM during summer, earlier than expected.

2

Cash only is accepted for entry and activities.

3

The park features trails that are great for walking and observing wildlife.

05
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary image 1

Wildlife refuge features spacious enclosures with animals cared for in environments mimicking their natural habitats. The atmosphere is peaceful and educational, with daily talks and interactive animal encounters. Facilities include shaded amphitheater, kids' play areas, and well-designed trails that support family-friendly visits.

A small but fun play area exists for little kids. The designated kids' play area offers a cute playground that appeals to young children.

A small zoo with amazing animal species offers a more confined feel than a jungle-like sanctuary. It focuses on animal care within a compact space.

People are saying

"It's a family-friendly place with spacious trails and natural habitats."

"The old zoo felt like a true haven with ample space and shade."

"It's a cute little playground perfect for little kids."

Good to know

1

Daily educational talks at 3pm feature four animals and detailed discussions.

2

Admission is based on donations only, making it accessible for all.

3

The sanctuary is family-friendly and suitable for visitors of all ages.

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