7 Zoos In Orlando For A Fun-filled Getaway To This Pretty City!

23 Mar 2023

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One of the most-loved destinations in the USA, Orlando is known to have a wide diversity of attractions for all kinds of tourists be it a backpacker or a newlywed couple. From sky high buildings to museums to great food, there is so much to do in Orlando that you will be lost for choice. The zoos in Orlando deserve special mention in this context – they are a great way to enjoy a whole day of fun and frolic with the entire family. Orlando also has a number of aqua parks that are equally interesting especially if you have young kids!

7 Best Zoos in Orlando

Let us take a look at the best zoos in Orlando that you must visit on your next trip to Orlando!

1. Sea World Orlando

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This is one of the zoos in Orlando which is not just a big hit among kids, but also leaves the adults amused. Sea World offers you an experience filled with joy, amusement and it also engages in teaching kids the importance of animal rescue. Here you will experience a series of encounters with various marine creatures, from a fluffy penguin named puck to friendly bottlenose dolphins. This gigantic aquarium is located about 10 miles from Orlando will transport you into a land of fantasies beautified by colorful and scary creatures of all sizes, shapes, and colors. If you are up for a face to face encounter with the mighty and vicious sharks, then sign up for a tour to Sea World Orlando! You will love every minute spent here!

Address: 7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821
Open: 10AM–6PM
Phone: (407) 545-5550
Fee: Single Park Ticket – Starting from $79.99; Two park ticket starting at $49.99; Three park ticket starting at $39.99
Attractions: Manta, Wild Arctic, Infinity Falls, Journey to Atlantis, Mako

Must Read: 10 Best American Road Trips For An Unforgettable Journey In The Land Of Enchanting Sceneries!

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2. Discovery Cove

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Counted amidst one of the top beautiful zoos in Orlando, this is also located a few miles away from the heart of the city. Say yes for the venture to get the comfort of home while saying hi to the entire marine life without having to wear the scuba apparatus. You can swim along bottlenose dolphins or spend some fun time with cute otters. However, if you love exotic birds, then here you will get the joy of hand feeding them as well.

Address: 6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821
Open: 7:15AM–5:30PM
Phone: (407) 513-4600
Tickets: Day resort plus Dolphin Swim: $199/person; Trainer for a day plus entry to 3 parks: $455/person
Attractions: Snorkeling with rays, Dolphin encounters, bird feeding & a lazy river

3. Gatorland

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One of the best zoos in Orlando is also the alligator capital of the world, a large park filled with reptiles and adventure. Home to some of the most protected and endangered species of alligators, you can also spot the rarest of white alligators here. It also hosts a petting zoo where you can even pet the baby alligators if you feel courageous enough to attempt it! That is not all! If you like thrills, be sure to sign up for the adventure hour where you will be a few feet away from dangerous alligators. This is only for the brave hearted!

Address: 14501 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837
Open: 10AM–5PM
Phone: (407) 855-5496
Tickets: Adult (Ages 13 years & up) $29.99*
Children (Ages 3 – 12 years) $19.99
Seniors (Ages 55 & up) $24.99
Attractions: Screaming Gator Zipline, Gator Night Shine, Rookie Wrestling

4. Green meadows petting farm

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A petting zoo Orlando, this farm teaches kids to love and observe animals and even offers cool rides as well. From milking cows to learning about the attributes of the Asian water buffalo, this will not only allure kids but adults as well. You can even owe your kid a fun-filled and safe pony riding experience. It also hosts seasonal festivals all through the year, from Easter eggs hunting to creepy Halloween nights. Dedicate a day to caress cute animals and birds and let your inner kid go back to childhood.

Address: 4100, 1368 S Poinciana Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34746 – Relocating to new premises
Open: 10 AM to 5 PM
Phone: (407) 846-0770
Tickets: $23 per person
Attractions: Hay and Train Rides

5. Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

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One of the best Orlando zoos, it is home to over 150 species of exotic animals and also flaunts around 24 acres of native gardens. If you want to soak your eyes among the rich foliage of nature, then this zoo will pamper you right. Here is a zoo made just for children featuring domestic animals like alpaca and roosters. Don’t miss the giraffe feeding sessions which basically happens during lunch time. If you are lucky you may also be allowed to caress the long-horned rhinos during your visit. And yes, this botanical garden also possesses some species of venomous and nonvenomous snakes in the display exhibit.

Address: 3755 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771
Open: 9AM–5PM
Phone: 407.323.4450
Tickets: Adults – $19.50
Children (3-12 years) – $13.75
Seniors (60+) – $15.95
Attractions: Bungee Bounce, Giraffe Feeding, Train and Carousel, Seminole Ariel Adventures

6. Jungle Adventures Nature Park & Zoo

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As the name says, this Orlando zoo will give you an adrenaline rush the moment you step your foot into the natural habitat. Also, a home to numerous alligator species, you can even taste the amazing experience of holding a baby alligator in our arms. History enthusiasts be sure to pay a visit to the nearby village that goes by the name Native American village. This is a great place to get a sneak peek into the history of Orlando where you will you learn interesting facts about the first race of humankind who inhabited the lands.

Address: 26205 E Colonial Dr, Christmas, FL 32709
Open: 9:30AM–5:30PM
Phone: (407) 568-2885
Tickets: Adults Ages 13 and up: $25.95
Seniors Ages 60 and over: $22.95
Children Ages 3-11: $17.95
Children under 3: Free
Attractions: Gator Jamboree Feeding, Dinner Adventures in the Jungle, Jungle Swamp Queen River Cruise

7. Smooth Waters Wildlife Park

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A comparatively new Orlando Florida zoo, this park is home to some of the lush flora and fauna and not to forget, Siamese and African crocodiles. Keep your eyes open and your binoculars handy and you are sure to find a number of hidden creatures such as tortoises making their way through the park. Be sure to stop by the conservatory center where will get to learn numerous ways of conserving the ecosystem via the interactive sessions that are held through the day.

Address: 4500 Reed St, De Leon Springs, FL 32130
Open: 9AM–2PM
Phone: (407) 967-3768
Tickets: Adult: $10. Child (4-12): $5. Children 3 and under: Free
Attractions: Gift shop, Interactive Programs

Further Read: 10 Hidden Beaches Near Nusa Dua With Clear Turquoise Water And Spectacular Views

These zoos in Orlando have something for all age groups. It makes way for a day long adventure in the midst of lush green and the many bounties of nature. Be sure to lather a lot of sunscreen, pop on your hat, and set out on an adventure like no other! So, plan a trip to US and pamper the kid within!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Zoos In Orlando

What are the attractions in the Sea World in Orlando?

Giraffe feeding, carousel tours for kids, getting a close encounter with killer whales, feeding barn animals at the Barnyard Buddies attraction, and exploring the jungle area by taking a guided tour are some attractions available here.

Is Jungle Adventures open throughout the year?

They are open 365 days even during holidays and festivals. You can take VIP or group tours to view nature and wildlife at this park. You can enjoy Gator feeding and take a tour of the Native American Indian Village.

Where can you swim with dolphins in Orlando?

Discovery Cove is a fun place for families with kids to spend time with the dolphins and swim with them. You can hand-feed exotic birds and also take a swim with the adorable otters.

How long can you stay at the Gatorland?

You can spend an entire day at the Gatorland. There are many attractions and activities available at this park.

Which place offers animal rides in Orlando?

You can visit the Green Meadows Petting Farm in Orlando that lets you feed animals and take animal rides. Kids can enjoy pony rides at this farm.

Is there a military discount available at the Gatorland?

Yes, discounts are available for active as well as retired military personnel here.

How many alligators are there at the Gatorland?

There are 2000 alligators in this nature and wildlife park.