Yes, Orlando has a major zoo and several wildlife attractions
Orlando is home to ZooTampa at Lowry Park, a 56-acre zoo located about 45 minutes north of downtown Orlando in Tampa. It is the closest major zoo to Orlando and holds thousands of animals across multiple habitats. If you are looking for wildlife viewing without leaving the Orlando area itself, you have options too — several wildlife parks and animal sanctuaries operate within or near the city, though they differ from a traditional zoo in size and focus.
The main choice for most visitors is whether to drive to ZooTampa or explore the animal attractions that are closer to the Orlando tourist corridor. Each has different hours, admission costs, and what you will see, so knowing the difference helps you plan your visit.
Key Takeaways
- ZooTampa at Lowry Park is the nearest major zoo, located in Tampa about 45 minutes from downtown Orlando, with over 1,300 animals and multiple habitat zones.
- Gatorland, located south of Orlando in Kissimmee, is a 110-acre wildlife preserve focused on alligators and crocodiles and requires about 30 minutes to reach from central Orlando.
- Several smaller animal attractions like the Central Florida Zoo in Sanford and wildlife sanctuaries operate within an hour of Orlando but are not traditional zoos.
- ZooTampa and Gatorland both operate year-round, though summer heat and afternoon thunderstorms are common in Florida and can affect your visit.
- Admission prices, hours, and special exhibits change seasonally, so checking the venue's website before you go saves time and money.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park — the main zoo option
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a 56-acre facility in Tampa that houses more than 1,300 animals representing over 200 species. The zoo is divided into themed areas including the Florida Wildlife section, the Asian Gardens, the African Savanna, and the Primate World. You can walk the grounds at your own pace or rent a stroller, wheelchair, or electric scooter if walking the full zoo is difficult.
The zoo includes a water park area called Splash Pad during summer months, which is included with admission. There is also a train that loops through parts of the zoo, though it does not cover the entire grounds. Food vendors, restrooms, and shaded areas are spread throughout, which matters on hot Florida days.
Parking is included with admission. The drive from downtown Orlando takes about 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic. The zoo is open year-round, though hours vary by season — typically 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., but you should check their website before visiting because hours change for holidays and special events.
Gatorland — a specialized wildlife preserve closer to Orlando
Gatorland is a 110-acre wildlife preserve in Kissimmee, about 30 minutes south of downtown Orlando. Unlike a traditional zoo, Gatorland focuses almost entirely on alligators, crocodiles, and related reptiles. The park holds thousands of alligators at various life stages, from hatchlings to large adults, and also keeps crocodiles, snakes, and other reptiles.
The park includes a zipline that runs over the alligator pools, a wildlife show with live demonstrations, and observation towers for viewing. You can walk the grounds on your own or join a guided tour. Gatorland is smaller and less crowded than ZooTampa, and the drive is shorter, which makes it a practical choice if you want to see wildlife without spending a full day traveling.
Gatorland operates year-round from 10 a.m. to sunset, though sunset times change with the season. Parking is included with admission. The park is less shaded than ZooTampa, so bring sunscreen and water, especially if you visit in summer.
Central Florida Zoo and other smaller attractions
The Central Florida Zoo is located in Sanford, about 45 minutes north of downtown Orlando. It is smaller than ZooTampa — about 116 acres — and holds around 500 animals. The zoo includes a train ride, a petting area for younger children, and a splash pad during warm months. It is a good option if you want a zoo experience without the drive to Tampa or the specialized focus of Gatorland.
Several other animal attractions operate in the Orlando area, including wildlife sanctuaries and animal rescue facilities that offer tours or encounters. These are typically smaller, more specialized, and less crowded than traditional zoos. Many focus on education or animal rescue rather than entertainment, so the experience is different from a zoo visit.
Comparing drive time, cost, and what you will see
| Attraction | Location | Drive Time from Downtown Orlando | Size and Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZooTampa at Lowry Park | Tampa | 45 minutes to 1 hour | 56 acres, 1,300+ animals, multiple habitats |
| Gatorland | Kissimmee | 30 minutes | 110 acres, alligators and crocodiles |
| Central Florida Zoo | Sanford | 45 minutes | 116 acres, 500 animals, mixed species |
Admission prices vary and change seasonally. ZooTampa typically costs more than Gatorland or the Central Florida Zoo because it is larger and includes more attractions. Many zoos offer discounts for online advance purchase, so buying tickets before you arrive saves money. Some also offer annual memberships that pay for themselves if you plan to visit more than twice in a year.
Planning your visit — weather and timing
Florida weather affects zoo visits more than most places. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and afternoon thunderstorms are common from June through September. If you visit in summer, arrive early in the morning before the heat peaks, bring plenty of water, and plan to rest in shaded areas or indoors during the hottest part of the day.
Winter and spring are the most comfortable times to visit — temperatures are mild, humidity is lower, and rain is less frequent. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, so if your schedule allows, visiting on a weekday means shorter lines and easier parking.
All three attractions have websites with current hours, admission prices, and information about special events or temporary closures. Checking before you go prevents wasted trips — some attractions close for maintenance or special events, and hours change seasonally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food and drinks to the zoo?
Most zoos allow you to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks, though policies vary. ZooTampa and Gatorland both permit outside food and drinks. Bringing your own lunch and water saves money and lets you eat on your schedule rather than waiting in food vendor lines.
Are the zoos accessible for people with mobility issues?
ZooTampa and the Central Florida Zoo both offer wheelchair rentals and have paved paths throughout most of the grounds, though some areas may have hills or uneven terrain. Gatorland is less accessible overall because it has more natural terrain and fewer paved paths. Call ahead to ask about specific areas you want to visit.
What is the best time of year to visit?
November through March offers the most comfortable weather — temperatures in the 70s and 80s with lower humidity and less rain. Summer is hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, making it less pleasant for walking around outdoors for several hours.
Can I see both a zoo and Gatorland in one day?
You could visit Gatorland in the morning and drive to ZooTampa in the afternoon, but you would not have much time at either place. Most people spend at least three to four hours at a zoo. If you want to see both, plan for two separate days or choose one for your visit.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
You can usually buy tickets at the gate, but purchasing online in advance is often cheaper and lets you skip the ticket line. During peak season or holidays, buying ahead guarantees entry if the zoo reaches capacity, though this is rare.