Is there anything more wholesome than spending the day at the zoo? If you’re looking for something to do with the family, an adventurous date or a fun outing with friends. there are plenty of zoos in and around Miami, where you can observe some majestic giraffes, zebras, tigers and other animals you might not otherwise be able to see. Take a look at some of the best zoos in South Florida, which may even offer opportunities to get up close and personal with some exotic wildlife!
1. Zoo Miami
This popular zoo covers 750 acres of land and is considered the largest in all of Florida as well as the fifth largest in the U.S. More than 2,000 animals of 375 species call it home, including Asian elephants, lions, flamingos, koalas, chimpanzees, zebras and more. Visitors will find fascinating exhibits on conservation and native species, among others. And if you want to get up close and personal, you can also feed their giraffes, camels and parrots!
Where: 12400 SW 152nd St, Miami, FL 33177
2. Jungle Island
Situated on Watson Island, Jungle Island’s roster of animals span from all over the globe, such as capybaras, lemurs, flamingos, macaws and more. If you’re looking to meet a giant tortoise or an adorable sloth, this is the place for you! But more than just a zoo, it offers memorable experiences like acrobatic shows, an inflatable waterpark, wildlife exhibits, Treetop Trekking ziplines and the annual festival of lights known as Luminosa.
Where: 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, FL 33132
3. Monkey Jungle
When you visit Monkey Jungle, you get exactly what you’re looking for: a world dedicated to these fascinating primates! Spanning 30 acres of subtropical forest, this eco-show park takes groups on a guided tour through its habitat areas, where hundreds of monkeys roam around as they please, and offers up-close encounters with a troop of squirrel monkeys and capuchin monkeys.
Where: 14805 SW 216th St, Miami, FL 33170
4. Zoological Wildlife Foundation
Often categorized as a zoo, but far from your average animal park, ZWF is home to a wide range of wildlife with a focus on conservation and preservation. This local organization conducts tours — which must be pre-booked at least 24 hours prior to your visit — and educational programs for raising awareness about rare and endangered species. If you’re looking to connect with some fascinating animals, they’ve got everything from reptiles to owls and anteaters to big cats.
Where: 16225 SW 172nd Ave, Miami, FL 33187
5. Lion Country Safari
Yes, visiting this Palm Beach County attraction means you’ll have to drive over an hour to get there, but it’s well worth it. This is one of the most unique experiences as it is believed to be the first cageless zoo in the country! So, instead of the animals, it’s humans that are enclosed (in their cars). You’ll get to drive through several different habitats while herds of animals like African lions, ostriches, rhinos walk around. After making it through the 4-mile preserve, make sure to check out their family-friendly rides, water sprayground and feeding encounters.
Where: 2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee, FL 33470