Orlando Has Two Main Zoos Open to the Public

Yes, Orlando has two zoos you can visit. The Central Florida Zoo is located in Sanford, about 30 minutes north of downtown Orlando. The ZooTampa at Lowry Park is in Tampa, roughly 90 minutes southwest of Orlando. Both are full-size zoos with live animals, walking trails, and educational programs. If you want a zoo experience without leaving Orlando proper, neither is within the city limits, but both are close enough for a day trip from most Orlando hotels.

Orlando itself does not have a major zoo inside city boundaries, though the area has several animal attractions. The distinction matters if you are planning your schedule—a trip to either zoo takes travel time beyond what you would spend at an attraction on International Drive or in the theme park corridor.

Key Takeaways

  • Central Florida Zoo in Sanford is the closer option at about 30 minutes from downtown Orlando and features over 400 animals across 116 acres.
  • ZooTampa at Lowry Park in Tampa is 90 minutes away and includes animal encounters, a water park section, and a manatee rehabilitation facility.
  • Both zoos are open year-round, though hours and operating schedules vary by season and day of the week.
  • Parking is included with admission at both locations, and both offer online ticket purchase to save time at the gate.

Central Florida Zoo in Sanford

Central Florida Zoo sits in Sanford, a town north of Orlando on Interstate 4. The drive takes 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic and your starting point. The zoo spans 116 acres and houses over 400 animals, including giraffes, zebras, lions, bears, and primates. You can walk the grounds at your own pace or ride the train that loops through the property.

The zoo is open daily, though hours change seasonally. During peak months (June through August and around holidays), it typically opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. Off-season hours are often shorter—sometimes 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission prices vary by age and whether you purchase in advance online or at the gate; online tickets are usually cheaper. Parking is free and included with your ticket.

The zoo has a petting zoo section, a splash pad for warm days, and several food vendors throughout the grounds. Bring sunscreen and water—there is limited shade on some of the walking paths, and Florida sun is intense even in winter.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is in Tampa, about 90 minutes southwest of Orlando via Interstate 4. The zoo covers 56 acres and holds over 1,300 animals. It includes a water park section called Splash Pad, a manatee rehabilitation center, and animal encounter experiences where you can get closer to certain species. The zoo is known for its primate collection and big cats.

ZooTampa is open daily year-round. Hours are typically 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some days close earlier. Like Central Florida Zoo, admission prices are lower when you buy tickets online in advance. Parking is free. The zoo is larger and more spread out than Central Florida Zoo, so plan for a full day if you want to see most of the animals without rushing.

The water park section is included with zoo admission, which makes ZooTampa appealing on hot days. Several restaurants and snack stands are on the grounds. The manatee center is a draw for visitors interested in marine conservation and rehabilitation work.

Travel Time and Planning Your Day

If you are staying on International Drive or near the theme parks, factor in 45 minutes to an hour of driving to Central Florida Zoo and two hours to ZooTampa. Both trips are manageable as a half-day or full-day outing, but neither is a quick stop between other attractions.

Central Florida Zoo is the better choice if you want to minimize driving time. ZooTampa is worth the extra drive if you prefer a larger zoo with more animal variety and the added water park component. Check current hours and any special events before you go—both zoos occasionally close for private events or maintenance.

Other Animal Attractions in Orlando

If a full zoo visit does not fit your schedule, Orlando has smaller animal attractions within the city. The Gatorland is on the south side of Orlando and focuses on alligators and crocodiles native to Florida. It is much smaller than a traditional zoo but offers a unique Florida experience and takes one to two hours to explore.

The iFLY Indoor Skydiving facility and various theme parks also have animal encounters and shows, though these are not zoos. Aquariums in the area, like those at some resorts, feature fish and marine life but not land animals. If you specifically want to see a wide range of mammals, birds, and reptiles in one place, one of the two main zoos is your best option.

Tickets, Hours, and What to Bring

Both zoos sell tickets at the gate, but online advance purchase is cheaper and lets you skip the ticket line. Check the zoo's website directly for current prices—they change seasonally and by age group. Children under two are often free or discounted at both locations.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Wear comfortable walking shoes—you will cover several miles on foot. Both zoos have food vendors, but prices are high; bringing a picnic or snacks from outside is usually allowed. Check the zoo's rules on outside food before you arrive. Strollers are permitted at both locations if you are traveling with young children.

Neither zoo requires advance reservations to enter, though during peak holiday weeks they may reach capacity and temporarily stop admitting visitors. Arriving early in the day gives you the best chance of entry and the most comfortable walking conditions before afternoon heat sets in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see a zoo without leaving Orlando?

There is no major zoo inside Orlando city limits. Central Florida Zoo in Sanford is the closest at 30 minutes away. If you want to stay within Orlando proper, Gatorland on the south side is a smaller animal attraction focused on alligators and crocodiles, though it is not a traditional zoo.

Which zoo is better for young children?

Central Florida Zoo is smaller and easier to navigate with young kids in one day. It has a petting zoo and splash pad. ZooTampa is larger and more spread out, which can be tiring for small children, but the included water park section appeals to families with kids who want to cool off.

How long does it take to see everything at each zoo?

Central Florida Zoo takes three to four hours to walk at a relaxed pace. ZooTampa takes four to six hours because it is larger and has more animals. Both can be done in less time if you skip sections or move quickly, but you will miss details.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

You can buy tickets at the gate, but online advance purchase is cheaper and faster. Both zoos sell tickets on their websites. During peak season, buying ahead also guarantees entry if the zoo reaches capacity that day.

Are there discounts for Florida residents?

Both zoos offer resident discounts, though the amount and how you claim them varies. Check each zoo's website for current resident pricing and what ID you need to bring. Some zoos also offer annual memberships that pay for themselves after two or three visits.