Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens - a large white building surrounded by trees and flowers
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Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

4.6
·20k reviews·Jacksonville, United States

A vibrant zoo and botanical garden showcasing diverse wildlife and over 1,000 plant species, offering interactive experiences and family fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)

Cooler temps, active animals

CrowdMedium
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Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens - a large white building surrounded by trees and flowers

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

Best Time

Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)

Cooler temps, active animals

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant zoo and botanical garden showcasing diverse wildlife and over 1,000 plant species, offering interactive experiences and family fun.

4.6
(20k reviews)

"The Jacksonville Zoo is truly a gem! So much more to experience than just animals."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Beat the Heat

Visit early or late to avoid peak sun. Utilize free water stations!

🎟️ Total Experience Tix

Worth it for unlimited feedings & rides. Book ahead!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giraffe Feeding

Giraffe Feeding

African Savanna

Get up close and personal to feed these gentle giants. A truly memorable experience for all ages.

TikTokInstagram
Stingray Bay

Stingray Bay

Near Entrance

Touch and feed these fascinating marine creatures. A popular interactive exhibit that kids love.

TikTokReddit
Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens

Throughout the Zoo

Explore over 1,000 plant species integrated with animal exhibits. The largest botanical garden in Northeast Florida.

TikTokInstagram
Playful Otters

Playful Otters

River Otters Exhibit

Watch these energetic and entertaining animals frolic and play. Always a crowd-pleaser.

TikTokReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Florida Heat

Jacksonville's heat can be intense. Plan to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak sun and crowds. Bring plenty of water or utilize the free water stations throughout the zoo. TikTok

Maximize Your Visit

Consider 'Total Experience' tickets for unlimited animal feedings, train rides, and carousel access. This can save time and enhance your interaction with the animals. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)
Why
Cooler temps, active animals
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon (3 PM - 5 PM)
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour
Crowd
Low
When
Special Events
Why
Unique experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

What makes you happy? 😃💕 #zooday #jacksonville #weekend #happy #mom
@amberbaraso
436 likes • 8.7K views

🎯 Beat the Heat

Visit early or late to avoid peak sun. Utilize free water stations! TikTok

🎟️ Total Experience Tix

Worth it for unlimited feedings & rides. Book ahead! TikTokReddit

Buscando un plan diferente en Jacksonville? 🦁🌿 El Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens es el lugar perfecto para disfrutar en familia, conectar con la naturaleza y ver animales increíbles de cerca. 🐘✨ ¡Aventúrate y vive un día inolvidable! ¿Ya lo visitaste? Cuéntame tu experiencia. 👇🏼🎥 #JacksonvilleZoo #PlanFamiliar #DescubreJax
@gabrielacolinaleon
18 likes • 1.1K views
It’s opening night of Spooktacular!🎃👻 Grab your boo crew, and get ready for some Halloween mayhem at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Get tickets at jacksonvillezoo.org/spooktacular and at #linkinbio
jacksonvillezoo
7.1K likes • 136.7K views

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Free water stations are available throughout the zoo. Reddit

🌙🎶 A gorgeous evening at Saturday’s Sold Out Opening Night of Tunes & Blooms at the Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens 🌺🦒The special experience returns all summer long — don’t miss your chance to enjoy live music, after-hours zoo access, and unforgettable vibes under the stars 🎸 Upcoming Nights: • Island Acoustic – July 5 • Blues, Jazz & Southern Rock – August 30 • Latin Night – September 27 🎟...
904happyhour
133 likes • 10.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Beat the Heat

Visit early or late to avoid peak sun. Utilize free water stations! TikTok

🎟️ Total Experience Tix

Worth it for unlimited feedings & rides. Book ahead! TikTokReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Free water stations are available throughout the zoo. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moments

Don't forget your camera or phone for amazing animal shots! TikTok

📅 Check Event Schedule

Look out for special events like Tunes & Blooms or Spooktacular. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(20k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens for its beautiful animals, well-maintained exhibits, and engaging botanical gardens. The interactive experiences, like feeding giraffes and stingrays, are frequently highlighted as memorable moments. While the Florida heat and occasional large crowds can be drawbacks, the zoo's organization and efforts to provide cooling stations are appreciated. Reddit

"Wow-what an amazing zoo! We were so impressed by the beautiful animals and gardens. So clean and the animals had lots of area to roam. We spent 4 hours here and was blessed with the king of the jungle’s roar and up close contact with the giraffes! Best day ever!"

Cheryl Powell

"Our visit to the zoo was, as always, memorable and inspiring! I’m so grateful they offer the $5 admission days — what a great initiative! I do wish this promotion happened in the fall or winter though, as it was incredibly hot.

That said, even with the large crowds, everything was very well organized. There were plenty of parking attendants helping people find spots, the entrance line moved quickly, and throughout the zoo there were several stations with free water and places to cool off.

The splash park was working great, and overall, everything was fantastic! We love our zoo and are always happy to come back again and again. So many animals, so much variety — they’re doing an amazing job!"

Angela Dorosh

"The Jacksonville Zoo is truly a gem! There's so much more to experience than just animals—between the lush gardens, scenic views of the water, and the variety of special events and exhibits, every visit feels unique. One of my favorite parts was getting to feed and pet the stingrays—such a cool and interactive experience! I also loved watching the playful otters and walking through the immersive bird exhibits. You can really tell how much care goes into maintaining the habitats and ensuring the animals are well cared for. The Bonobo exhibit was fascinating, and of course, the tigers were as stunning as ever. Highly recommend a visit for all ages!"

Mallory

What People Like

Beautiful animals and gardens
Interactive feeding experiences
Clean and spacious exhibits

What People Dislike

Intense Florida heat
Large crowds on busy days

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is located at 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the zoo. TikTok

Yes, there is ample parking available at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. During peak times or special events, parking attendants are often on hand to help direct visitors. Reddit

From I-95 North or South, take Exit 362A for Zoo Parkway. Turn right onto Zoo Parkway and the zoo will be on your left. TikTok

The zoo is generally well-laid out, but it's a large space. Picking up a map upon arrival or using a digital map can be very helpful for planning your route and finding specific exhibits. TikTok

Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option for getting to and from the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. There are designated drop-off and pick-up points. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary, but general admission typically ranges from $25-$35 for adults and $20-$30 for children. 'Total Experience' tickets, which include animal feedings and rides, are more expensive but offer added value. Check the official website for current pricing and potential discounts. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular events or busy weekends. This can often save you time at the entrance and sometimes offers slight discounts. TikTokReddit

The zoo occasionally offers special discount days, such as $5 admission days. These promotions are often announced on their social media or website, but they can be very popular and crowded. Reddit

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is typically open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours for special events. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit. TikTok

Yes, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens offers annual passes, which can be a great value if you plan to visit multiple times a year. TikTok

🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience

Visitors often rave about the giraffes, tigers, lions, and playful otters. The zoo also features a variety of unique species like anteaters and lemurs. Don't miss the chance to see the baby Crowned Lemur! TikTokReddit+3

Absolutely! The zoo has a fantastic splash park, a playground, a carousel, and a train ride. The 'Nature Agents' adventure and scavenger hunts are also great for engaging younger visitors. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, animal feeding opportunities are a highlight! You can feed giraffes, lorikeets, and stingrays. These experiences are often included with 'Total Experience' tickets or can be purchased separately. TikTokReddit+1

It's known for its diverse animal collection, beautiful botanical gardens, interactive exhibits like Stingray Bay, and family-friendly attractions. It's also the largest botanical garden in Northeast Florida. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the zoo hosts various special events throughout the year, including 'Spooktacular' for Halloween, holiday light displays, and 'Tunes & Blooms' for live music evenings. TikTokInstagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The zoo offers several dining options, including cafes and snack stands, serving typical theme park fare like burgers, hot dogs, and ice cream. You can also bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. TikTok

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks into the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. This can be a great way to save money. TikTok

While specific options can vary, most food vendors at zoos typically offer some basic vegetarian choices. It's advisable to check with the specific food stands for current offerings. TikTok

Some dining areas may offer views of certain exhibits or garden areas, but there isn't a prominent 'restaurant with a view' highlighted in visitor feedback. Enjoying food amidst the natural surroundings is part of the experience. TikTok

This is subjective, but many visitors find the convenience of the main cafe near the entrance or smaller snack stands throughout the park to be sufficient. Packing your own picnic is also a popular choice. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The botanical gardens offer beautiful floral backdrops, while the animal enclosures provide opportunities for stunning wildlife shots. The giraffe feeding area and Stingray Bay are also very photogenic. TikTokInstagram

Yes, personal photography is generally allowed and encouraged at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals. TikTok

A camera with a good zoom lens is beneficial for capturing clear shots of animals from a distance. However, a smartphone with a decent camera can also capture great memories, especially for close-up interactions. TikTok

While personal photography is allowed, commercial photography or filming may require special permits. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using excessive flash. TikTok

Try to capture animals in natural poses, use the available light to your advantage, and be patient. Getting down to eye level with smaller animals can also make for more engaging photos. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a fantastic destination for families. The splash park and playground are huge hits, offering a great way for kids to burn off energy, especially on hot Florida days. The train rides and carousel add to the fun, and interactive experiences like feeding the giraffes and stingrays create lasting memories. TikTokReddit+1

Consider the 'Total Experience' ticket for unlimited access to these attractions, which can be a great value. The zoo also often has scavenger hunts or themed activities for children, making the visit even more engaging. Arriving early is key to beating the heat and crowds, ensuring a more comfortable experience for everyone. TikTok+1

💰 Budget Travelers

While admission can add up, look out for discount days, such as the occasional $5 admission promotion, though these can be very crowded. Bringing your own food and non-alcoholic drinks is permitted and can significantly reduce your spending on-site. Reddit

Consider purchasing an annual pass if you anticipate visiting more than once or twice a year, as it can offer substantial savings. Walking the grounds and enjoying the free water stations are also great ways to maximize your experience without extra cost. TikTok

💑 Couples

For a unique date night, check out the zoo's 'Tunes & Blooms' events, which offer after-hours access with live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Instagram It's a romantic setting to enjoy the zoo in a different light. Even a regular daytime visit can be a charming experience, exploring the beautiful gardens and observing the diverse animal life together. Instagram

🚶 Day-Trippers

If you're visiting Jacksonville for the day, the zoo is an excellent option. Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours to see the main attractions. Arriving early is recommended to make the most of your time and avoid the midday heat. TikTokReddit

Consider purchasing 'Total Experience' tickets if you want to pack in as many activities as possible, like animal feedings and rides, without waiting in multiple lines. The zoo's location is relatively easy to access from major highways, making it a convenient stop. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens: A Dual Experience

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens offers a unique dual experience, seamlessly blending a vibrant zoological collection with an expansive botanical garden. This integration means that visitors aren't just observing animals; they're experiencing them within lush, diverse plant environments. The zoo proudly boasts over 1,000 plant species, making it the largest botanical garden in Northeast Florida. This thoughtful design enhances the naturalistic habitats for the animals and provides a visually stunning backdrop for visitors. TikTokInstagram

This combination creates a richer, more immersive visit. You might find yourself admiring a rare orchid while observing a primate, or walking through a themed garden that complements the region of origin for a particular animal. The botanical aspect adds another layer of discovery, appealing to nature enthusiasts and gardeners alike. It's a testament to the zoo's commitment to conservation, not just of animals, but of plant life as well. TikTokInstagram

Whether you're drawn by the allure of exotic animals or the beauty of diverse flora, the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens delivers on both fronts. It's a place where you can learn about wildlife conservation and appreciate the intricate beauty of the plant kingdom, all in one visit. TikTokInstagram

Interactive Animal Encounters

One of the standout features of the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is its array of interactive animal encounters. These experiences allow visitors to get closer to the animals than ever before, creating unforgettable memories. The Giraffe Feeding is a perennial favorite, offering a chance to hand-feed these majestic creatures. Similarly, Stingray Bay provides a unique opportunity to touch and feed stingrays, a thrilling experience for all ages. TikTokReddit+1

Beyond these popular attractions, the zoo often offers other feeding opportunities, such as with lorikeets. These interactions are not only fun but also educational, providing insights into the animals' diets and behaviors. It's important to note that some of these experiences may require additional tickets or be included in 'Total Experience' packages, so it's wise to plan accordingly. TikTokReddit

These hands-on encounters transform a typical zoo visit into an engaging adventure. They foster a deeper connection with the animals and highlight the zoo's dedication to providing enriching experiences for its guests. Remember to check the schedule upon arrival, as feeding times can vary and may be subject to weather conditions. TikTok+1

Special Events and After-Hours Fun

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens isn't just a daytime destination; it comes alive with a variety of special events throughout the year. These events offer unique ways to experience the zoo, often with extended hours and themed activities. Spooktacular transforms the zoo into a Halloween wonderland with spooky decorations and family-friendly frights, while holiday light displays illuminate the grounds during the winter season. TikTokInstagram

For a more relaxed, adult-oriented experience, Tunes & Blooms offers after-hours access to the zoo with live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere under the stars. These events are perfect for date nights or a fun evening out with friends. It's advisable to purchase tickets in advance for these popular events, as they often sell out. Instagram

Attending a special event can provide a completely different perspective of the zoo, showcasing its versatility and commitment to engaging the community. Keep an eye on the zoo's official website and social media for announcements and ticket information for these exciting occasions. TikTokInstagram+1

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