In 1975, the Central Florida Zoo settled into its new location along Lake Monroe. Today, our Zoo is home to more than 350 animals representing over 100 species, from tiny, yet mighty, scorpions, to graceful giraffes and even the endangered Indian rhino. Come meet some of our planet’s rarest animals and get to know the species in your own backyard a bit better, including the Florida black bear and the American alligator.
Treat yourself and your family to a day at one of the wildest places to visit in Central Florida. Your visit to the Zoo will introduce you to a variety of animals, including some of the rarest and most endangered species on the planet. From watching our greater one-horned Indian rhinoceros relax in his pool to feeding a giraffe and seeing snakes slithering up close, discover the world’s most magnificent creatures with a day at the Zoo or get an annual pass and come back year-round.
A day at the Zoo means more than just getting up close and personal with amazing animals—with several unique family-friendly attractions, there’s more to do at the Zoo than ever before. Look out for Keeper Chats happening daily throughout the Zoo, cool off at the Wharton Smith Tropical Splash Ground or go on a unique zip lining adventure, all just steps away from animals from all around the world.
Aside from our residents with feathers, scales and fur, the Zoo is home to many unique and native plants. Throughout our grounds, we’ve created beautiful gardens, abundant with beautiful wildflowers, majestic trees and more. Don’t forget to visit our butterfly garden to watch these delicate creatures fly from flower to flower for a truly breathtaking sight.
