Animal parks in Florida
Gator parks, zoos, springs and drive-through safaris worth the trip.
Not every Florida wildlife day needs a boat. The state’s animal parks range from classic alligator parks and accredited zoos to drive-through safaris and state parks built around rescued native animals. Here are the best known, grouped by region, so you can pair one with a fishing trip or a day on the water.
What are the best animal parks in Florida?
Well-known picks include Gatorland in Orlando, Wild Florida near Kenansville, Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Lion Country Safari in Loxahatchee and Zoo Miami.
iOutdoors does not sell park tickets. We are adding guided wildlife experiences, so use the form below if you would like to hear about them, and check each park’s own website for hours and tickets.
Florida animal parks by region
| Region | Parks | Pair it with |
|---|---|---|
| Orlando & Kissimmee | Gatorland; Wild Florida (airboats and drive-through safari) | Kissimmee bass fishing, Lake Toho pontoon rental |
| Space Coast | Brevard Zoo; Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge | Cape Canaveral fishing |
| Tampa Bay & Nature Coast | ZooTampa at Lowry Park; Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park | Tampa fishing charters |
| South Florida | Zoo Miami; Lion Country Safari | Miami fishing, iguana hunting |
| North Florida | Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens; St. Augustine Alligator Farm | Jacksonville fishing |
Tips for visiting
- Buy tickets on each park’s own website and check seasonal hours.
- Go early in summer; animals are more active before the heat.
- Look for parks accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) or run as wildlife rehabilitation and rescue facilities.
- Never feed animals unless staff invite you to as part of a supervised program.
Guided wildlife experiences: coming soon
We are adding guided wildlife days that pair a park or refuge visit with a boat or paddle trip. Tell us where and when you are visiting and we will let you know.
Get notified when trips open
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Florida animal parks FAQ
What is the oldest alligator park in Florida?
The St. Augustine Alligator Farm opened in 1893, making it one of the oldest attractions in the state. Gatorland in Orlando opened in 1949.
Is there a drive-through safari in Florida?
Yes. Lion Country Safari in Loxahatchee near West Palm Beach and Wild Florida near Kenansville both offer drive-through safari experiences.
Where can I see manatees at a park?
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park has an underwater observatory, and in winter manatees gather at springs such as Blue Spring State Park.
Does iOutdoors sell zoo or park tickets?
No. Buy tickets directly from each park. iOutdoors is adding guided wildlife experiences; use the form above to hear when they open.