I’ve had the pleasure of visiting many animal attractions around the United States, but Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens stands out as one of the best places for a family-friendly adventure. Located in the heart of Florida, this zoo offers a unique blend of animal exhibits, interactive experiences, and lush botanical gardens that make it the perfect destination for a day of fun and learning. From the moment I stepped through the entrance, I knew this would be an unforgettable experience for both kids and adults alike.
In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about Jacksonville Zoo, from the fascinating exhibits and attractions to tips for making the most of your visit. I’ll also dive into nearby attractions, dining options, and accommodation recommendations, ensuring your family trip to Jacksonville is both fun and stress-free.
So, whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another round of wildlife exploration, let’s embark on a journey through Jacksonville Zoo and the surrounding attractions.
1. An Introduction to Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
Location: 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218
Zoo Overview:
The Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens is one of the largest and most diverse zoos in the southeastern United States, spread across more than 117 acres of lush landscape. With over 2,000 animals and 1,000 plant species, it offers a wide range of experiences that are both educational and entertaining. The zoo is home to everything from majestic African lions and elephants to playful monkeys and colorful birds.
What I love most about the zoo is how it blends conservation efforts with interactive and immersive exhibits. Unlike other zoos I’ve visited, Jacksonville Zoo places a strong emphasis on creating naturalistic habitats for its animals, allowing them to thrive while providing guests with an authentic and up-close experience.
Highlights & Must-See Attractions:
- Wild Florida: This exhibit takes you on a journey through Florida’s own diverse wildlife, showcasing animals like alligators, manatees, and native birds. The most exciting part is the African Savannah area, where you can see giraffes, zebras, and ostriches up close.
- Land of the Tiger: An absolutely mesmerizing section of the zoo dedicated to Bengal tigers. It features a unique multi-level viewing platform, where you can get up close and personal with these powerful predators. The exhibit is beautifully designed to mimic the tiger’s natural habitat, with lush trees, rocky terrains, and a large water feature.
- Giraffe Overlook: A popular spot for families, this area lets you feed giraffes from an elevated platform. It’s an incredibly memorable experience, as these gentle giants reach down to eat lettuce right out of your hand!
- Australian Adventure: This exhibit is an absolute gem for anyone who loves kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. The zoo has created a space that’s true to the Australian Outback, with plenty of open space for the animals to roam.
- Animal Encounters: For those looking for an up-close experience, the zoo offers various animal encounters, where you can interact with everything from reptiles to birds. These encounters are available throughout the day and can be booked in advance.
2. Planning Your Visit: Ticket Prices & Hours
Ticket Prices:
One of the things I appreciate about Jacksonville Zoo is its relatively affordable pricing compared to other large zoos around the country. The zoo is committed to making wildlife education accessible to everyone, without sacrificing the quality of the exhibits and experiences.
- General Admission:
- Adults (13+): $24.95
- Children (3-12): $19.95
- Seniors (65+): $21.95
- Children under 3: Free
- Annual Passes: If you’re planning on visiting the zoo multiple times in a year, the annual pass is an excellent value. It gives you unlimited admission, parking, and discounts at zoo shops and restaurants.
- Adults: $59.95
- Children: $49.95
Hours of Operation:
The zoo is open every day of the year, except for Christmas Day. Here are the general operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
It’s always a good idea to check the official Jacksonville Zoo website for any special hours or holiday closures.
Tips for Maximizing Your Visit:
- Arrive early: The zoo is quite large, and visiting early allows you to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. It’s also a great time for animal sightings, as many animals are more active in the morning.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The zoo covers a large area with plenty of walking. Make sure to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate shoes to enjoy your visit without discomfort.
- Download the zoo app: The zoo has a handy app that features a map of all exhibits, animal information, showtimes for animal talks, and more. It’s an essential tool for navigating the zoo efficiently.
3. Nearby Attractions for a Full-Day Family Adventure
If you’re visiting Jacksonville Zoo, there are plenty of other attractions nearby that you can enjoy as part of your family vacation.
1. Jacksonville Beach
Location: Jacksonville Beach, FL
After spending the morning at the zoo, head over to Jacksonville Beach for some relaxation and fun in the sun. The beach is only about a 30-minute drive from the zoo, making it an easy trip for families looking to cool off and enjoy the ocean. Whether you’re building sandcastles with your kids or enjoying the surf, Jacksonville Beach offers a family-friendly environment that’s perfect for unwinding.
2. The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: 1860 Starratt Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32226
For a unique wildlife experience, consider visiting the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s a non-profit organization dedicated to providing a safe haven for endangered big cats like tigers, lions, and leopards. The sanctuary is located about 20 minutes from the zoo and offers tours where you can learn about big cat conservation while seeing these magnificent creatures up close.
3. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
Location: 829 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204
If your family is looking for a more cultural outing, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is a beautiful museum located in Riverside. It’s just a short drive from the zoo and offers a combination of art exhibits, historical collections, and stunning gardens. It’s a peaceful place to explore, and the gardens are especially lovely for a family photo op.
4. Dining Around Jacksonville Zoo
After an exciting day at the zoo, you’ll definitely want to refuel. Fortunately, Jacksonville offers plenty of great dining options that cater to families.
1. The Zoo Café
Located inside the zoo, the Zoo Café offers a variety of family-friendly meals, from burgers and sandwiches to salads and kid-friendly snacks. The café has outdoor seating with views of the zoo, making it a relaxing spot to grab a bite to eat before continuing your adventure. Prices are reasonable, and the food is perfect for refueling between exhibits.
2. The Sandollar Restaurant & Marina
Location: 1218 3rd St S, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
If you’re heading to the beach after the zoo, the Sandollar Restaurant & Marina is an excellent choice. This laid-back spot offers fresh seafood with a fun, casual atmosphere. Their fish tacos and shrimp baskets are popular, and the kids’ menu is full of tasty options for little ones.
3. Safe Harbor Seafood Market & Restaurant
Location: 1010 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32204
If you’re craving fresh seafood, head to Safe Harbor Seafood for a relaxed, local dining experience. Known for its delicious fish dishes and shrimp platters, this restaurant is a Jacksonville favorite for anyone looking to enjoy the best of the ocean’s bounty. It’s a great option for families who want to enjoy seafood without breaking the bank.
5. Accommodation Options for Families
Finding the right place to stay during your visit to Jacksonville is important for making your trip as enjoyable as possible. Here are some of my recommendations for family-friendly accommodations:
1. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville Riverfront
Location: 1201 Riverplace Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207
Located near the St. Johns River and downtown Jacksonville, this hotel is perfect for families. It offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant that serves up delicious, family-friendly meals. Plus, it’s only a short drive from Jacksonville Zoo, making it a convenient place to stay for families looking to explore the city.
2. Hampton Inn Jacksonville-Downtown-I-95
Location: 1331 Riverplace Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207
If you prefer something a little more affordable, the Hampton Inn Jacksonville-Downtown-I-95 is a great option. With free breakfast, an outdoor pool, and easy access to the zoo and other attractions, it’s a fantastic choice for families traveling on a budget.
6. Booking Your Tickets and Accommodation
For a stress-free experience when planning your visit to Jacksonville Zoo and surrounding attractions, I recommend using the following platforms:
- Ticket Booking: Use GetYourGuide or Viator for guided tours and skip-the-line tickets at Jacksonville Zoo and nearby attractions.
- Accommodation: Booking.com and Airbnb are excellent platforms for finding family-friendly hotels or vacation rentals.
- Flights: Check out Skyscanner for competitive flight prices to Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), which is just a short drive from the zoo.
A Day of Adventure and Learning at Jacksonville Zoo
Visiting Jacksonville Zoo is an experience that every family will treasure. From the exciting animal exhibits to the educational experiences and nearby attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re feeding giraffes, watching tigers roam, or exploring the lush gardens, every moment at the zoo is a chance to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
With the right planning and these tips, I’m sure your family will have a fantastic time in Jacksonville, making it a trip worth repeating again and again.
Happy travels, and I hope you enjoy your visit to Jacksonville Zoo as much as I did!
