Matschie's tree kangaroo
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Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo

4.7
·405 reviews·Gainesville, United States

A unique teaching zoo on a college campus, offering hands-on animal care education and a delightful visitor experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more active animals

CrowdLow
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Matschie's tree kangaroo

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more active animals

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique teaching zoo on a college campus, offering hands-on animal care education and a delightful visitor experience.

4.7
(405 reviews)

"A small but unique little zoo with knowledgeable students and great exhibits!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Campus parking can be tough. Leave extra time to find a spot, especially during class hours . :car:

☀️ Beat the Heat

The zoo is shady, but Gainesville gets hot! Visit in the morning or late afternoon for comfort . :sunwithface:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gibbon Family

Gibbon Family

Primate Exhibit

These agile primates are a major draw, offering a unique glimpse into their social dynamics and vocalizations.

Asian Small-Clawed Otters

Asian Small-Clawed Otters

Aquatic Exhibit

Watch these playful otters interact and even communicate using special buttons, showcasing innovative animal training.

Bald Eagle

Bald Eagle

Avian Exhibit

A majestic symbol of the wild, this impressive bird of prey is a must-see for its regal presence and powerful stature.

Student Zookeeper Interactions

Student Zookeeper Interactions

Throughout the zoo

Engage with knowledgeable student keepers who share fascinating insights into animal care and behavior.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Weather

Visit during weekdays for a more relaxed experience, especially if you're aiming for fewer crowds. Gainesville can get hot, so early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for comfortable exploration. Check the zoo's social media for weather-related closures before you go.Reddit

Parking & Campus Navigation

Parking can be challenging on campus, especially during class times. Arrive early, particularly if you have a specific class or event to attend. Consider the campus layout to maximize your visit time and avoid missing out on animal viewing opportunities.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more active animals
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Shady paths, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Medium
When
Special Events
Why
Unique experiences like Brew at the Zoo
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Such a fun new brain break that my kids now LOVE!!!🐍🐟🐅 #teacher #brainbreak #teachersoftiktok #getyourteachon #secondgrade #zoo #funnykids #texasteacher #teachertok
@savanna__beck
27.8K likes • 387.8K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Campus parking can be tough. Leave extra time to find a spot, especially during class hours.Reddit :car:

☀️ Beat the Heat

The zoo is shady, but Gainesville gets hot! Visit in the morning or late afternoon for comfort.Instagram :sunwithface:

This is a message to all incoming TCC and Sante Fe students: ppl are gonna get mad at you if you lie. Otherwise no one cares #fyp ##uf #fsu #college #funny
@couch_guys_left_toe
9.3K likes • 78.1K views
📍 Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo 3000 NW 83rd Street Gainesville, FL 32606 🦚Home to over 70 different species of animals! Visitors can enjoy the zoo’s diverse collection of both native and exotic species like Bald Eagles, White-throated capuchin monkeys, American alligators, Matschie’s Tree Kangaroo and Asian small-clawed otters! ⏰Open daily from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Last entry at 2:30 p.m. 🎟️Adults...
fun4gatorkids
19 likes • 1.1K views

❓ Ask the Keepers

Student keepers are a wealth of knowledge! Don't hesitate to ask them questions about the animals.Reddit :question:

🐶 Kid-Friendly Fun

There's a nice playground for kids, making it a great stop for families with little ones.Instagram :child:

You’re invited to Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo’s second annual Brew at the Zoo on Saturday, June 10th from 4-7 p.m. to enjoy an evening of live music, craft beer, animal encounters, food and more! Make sure to stop by the Visit Gainesville, Alachua County table to redeem your Sippin’ Seven merch for half the regular point value! #VisitGainesvilleAlachuaCounty #WhatsGoodAlachuaCounty #WhyILoveG...
visitgainesville
355 likes • 8.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Campus parking can be tough. Leave extra time to find a spot, especially during class hours.Reddit :car:

☀️ Beat the Heat

The zoo is shady, but Gainesville gets hot! Visit in the morning or late afternoon for comfort.Instagram :sunwithface:

❓ Ask the Keepers

Student keepers are a wealth of knowledge! Don't hesitate to ask them questions about the animals.Reddit :question:

🐶 Kid-Friendly Fun

There's a nice playground for kids, making it a great stop for families with little ones.Instagram :child:

📅 Check for Closures

Animals may be off-exhibit due to weather. Call ahead or check social media if you're concerned.Reddit :umbrella:

🍻 Brew at the Zoo

Don't miss their annual Brew at the Zoo event for a fun evening with drinks and animal encounters.Instagram :beer:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(405 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo for its unique educational focus, friendly and knowledgeable student staff, and a good variety of animals for its size. The affordable admission and shady environment are also frequently highlighted as positives, making it a great family-friendly option. Some note that animals may occasionally be off-exhibit due to weather.

"A must-visit when in Gainesville! While it’s not huge or anything, this zoo has a family of gibbons, which honestly make the trip for me every time. They also have an eagle, lemurs, lots of birds, tortoises, and more. Also recommend their annual brew at the zoo event!"

Anna M

"Amazing zoo with great staff! It's a very clean zoo and it's lay out to see all animals is great! Monkeys, birds, boars, snakes, turtles, Nyala, and so much more! There was a massive peacock walking around the paths, beautiful animal. I suggest! 10 dollars per adult and and 6 bucks with seniors and small children."

Mike B

"A small but unique little zoo. Great paths and great exhibits with lots of knowledgeable students for questions. Also excellent price for the size"

tgeil586

What People Like

Knowledgeable student staff
Affordable admission
Shady environment

What People Dislike

Animals off-exhibit (weather)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The zoo is located on the Santa Fe College campus at 3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32606.Instagram It's accessible by car and is part of the college's infrastructure. Be prepared for campus parking challenges.Reddit

Parking is available on the Santa Fe College campus. However, it can be competitive, especially during class times. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.Reddit Look for designated visitor parking areas.

While specific public transport routes directly to the zoo might be limited, Gainesville has a public bus system (Gator Commuter) that serves the college campus. Check their routes and schedules for the most convenient options.

Driving from downtown Gainesville to the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Factor in extra time for parking.Reddit

When driving to the zoo, follow signs for Santa Fe College. Once on campus, look for signs directing you to the Teaching Zoo and its associated parking areas. GPS navigation to 'Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo' is usually accurate.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is typically around $10 for adults, with reduced prices for seniors and small children. Exact pricing can vary, so it's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead.Reddit

The zoo is generally open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m..Instagram However, hours can sometimes change for special events or due to weather conditions, so it's wise to confirm before your visit.Reddit

For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required. However, for special events like 'Brew at the Zoo,' advance ticket purchase is highly recommended as they can sell out.Instagram+1

Discounts are often available for seniors and small children. Some special events might also offer group rates or early bird pricing. Check their website for the latest discount information.

Yes, you can still visit. However, it's advisable to check with the zoo beforehand if seeing specific animals is a priority, as some may be off-exhibit due to weather or other care-related reasons.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors often rave about the gibbon family and the Asian small-clawed otters.Reddit You can also see bald eagles, lemurs, various birds, tortoises, and more.InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The zoo is a good size for little ones, and it features a nice playground area for them to enjoy.InstagramReddit

While direct interaction with most animals is limited for safety, the student keepers are very knowledgeable and happy to answer questions about the animals and their care.InstagramReddit

A visit to the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo usually takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at each exhibit. It's a manageable size for a few hours of exploration.Instagram

Yes, the zoo hosts events like 'Brew at the Zoo' and 'Zoo Keeper Day,' offering unique after-hours experiences with music, food, and animal encounters.Instagram+2

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The zoo typically has limited food concessions on-site. It's a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks, or plan to eat before or after your visit.Instagram

Yes, visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and beverages to enjoy. This is a great option for families or those looking to save money.Instagram

Yes, the zoo is located in Gainesville, which offers a wide variety of restaurants. You can find many dining options on or near the Santa Fe College campus, ranging from casual to more formal.

Concession offerings can vary but usually include typical zoo fare like snacks, drinks, and perhaps some light meal options. For a full meal, exploring nearby restaurants is recommended.

The 'Brew at the Zoo' event often includes food vendors and local food trucks, offering a wider selection of dining options during the event.Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The exhibits offer great opportunities, especially the gibbons and otters. Look for clear shots of the animals in their habitats. The student keepers can also be interesting subjects.Instagram

Generally, drones are not permitted on college campuses or at zoos due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to assume drones are prohibited unless explicitly stated otherwise.Instagram

The zoo is quite shady, which can be great for reducing harsh glare on sunny days. However, it can also mean lower light conditions, so a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be helpful.Instagram

While general photography is encouraged, avoid using flash photography directly at animals, as it can disturb them. Be mindful of other visitors and respect any posted signage regarding photography.

Capture students interacting with animals, unique training sessions like the otters using communication buttons,Instagram or the diverse range of native and exotic species.Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo is a fantastic outing for families. Its manageable size means little legs won't get too tired, and the zoo is packed with engaging animals like playful otters and majestic eagles.InstagramReddit A dedicated playground area provides extra fun for children, ensuring they have plenty of opportunities to burn off energy.InstagramReddit The student keepers are often great at interacting with younger visitors, making the experience educational and exciting.

Pack snacks and drinks, as food options can be limited, or plan for a meal at a nearby restaurant. Visiting during the cooler parts of the day, like mornings or late afternoons, will make the experience more comfortable for everyone. The zoo's shady environment is a plus, but Florida heat is still a consideration.Reddit

🎓 Students & Budget Travelers

As a teaching zoo at a college, Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo offers an affordable and educational experience. Admission prices are reasonable, especially compared to larger zoos.Reddit This makes it an accessible option for students looking for a fun and informative outing without breaking the bank. The opportunity to learn directly from student keepers adds an extra layer of value.InstagramReddit

Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid potential weekend crowds and to better engage with the student staff. Bringing your own food and drinks is a smart way to save money, aligning with a budget-conscious approach to travel. The zoo's location within Gainesville also means you can easily combine your visit with other affordable campus activities or explore local eateries.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo offers unique opportunities to capture wildlife in a naturalistic setting. The gibbons, otters, and various bird species provide excellent subjects.Instagram The teaching aspect also presents interesting candid shots of students interacting with animals.Instagram+1

Be prepared for varied lighting conditions due to the zoo's shady environment, which can be both a blessing and a challenge. A camera with good low-light capabilities or a tripod might be beneficial. Remember to be respectful of the animals and avoid using flash photography directly at them.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Teaching Zoo Concept

The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo is more than just a collection of animals; it's a vital educational facility. Students enrolled in the zoo's animal science and zoology programs gain hands-on experience in animal care, husbandry, and management.Instagram+1 This unique approach means visitors often interact with passionate students who are learning to become the next generation of zookeepers and wildlife professionals.

This 'teaching' aspect provides a unique visitor experience. You're not just observing animals; you're witnessing a living classroom. Student keepers are often present at exhibits, ready to share their knowledge and answer questions, offering insights that go beyond typical zoo signage.InstagramReddit This direct engagement fosters a deeper appreciation for animal welfare and conservation efforts.

By supporting the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, visitors contribute directly to the education of these aspiring professionals. It's a symbiotic relationship where the public gets an engaging and informative visit, and students get invaluable practical experience in a real-world setting.Instagram

Animal Encounters and Conservation

Despite its manageable size, the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo houses a diverse array of over 70 species, including both native Floridian wildlife and exotic animals from around the globe.Instagram Highlights include the captivating gibbon family, playful Asian small-clawed otters, majestic bald eagles, and a variety of primates and birds.InstagramReddit The zoo actively participates in conservation efforts, with some of its endangered species playing a role in breeding programs aimed at sustaining global animal populations.Instagram

Innovations in animal care are also on display. For instance, zookeeper students are teaching Asian small-clawed otters to communicate using FluentPet buttons, allowing the animals to express their needs and desires for food and enrichment activities.Instagram This not only enhances the otters' quality of life by giving them a greater sense of agency but also provides valuable research data for animal behaviorists.

Visitors can learn about the importance of conservation through the exhibits and the knowledge shared by the student keepers. The zoo serves as an educational platform, raising awareness about the challenges faced by various species and inspiring visitors to consider their own roles in protecting wildlife and their habitats.

Planning Your Visit: Practicalities

When planning your trip to the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, consider the Gainesville climate. While the zoo is known for its shady paths, which offer respite from the Florida sun,Reddit the heat can still be a factor. Visiting during the cooler morning hours or late afternoon is often recommended for a more comfortable experience.Instagram Remember to stay hydrated, and consider bringing water bottles that can be refilled.

Parking on the Santa Fe College campus can be a point of contention for visitors. As highlighted by Reddit users, leaving ample time to find a parking spot is crucial, especially if you have a specific class or event to attend.Reddit Familiarize yourself with campus parking regulations and designated visitor areas to avoid any last-minute stress. The zoo's manageable size means that once you've parked, navigating the grounds is straightforward.

For those looking for a unique experience, keep an eye out for special events like 'Brew at the Zoo.' These events offer an after-hours opportunity to enjoy the zoo with live music, craft beer, and food, creating a lively atmosphere.Instagram+1 These events are popular and often require advance ticket purchase.

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