Visiting a zoo can be one of those classic family outings, a mix of education, entertainment, and a good dose of animal spotting. This review focuses on the Zoo Miami General Admission Ticket, rated 4.4 out of 5 by over 700 reviewers, and why it might be worth your time and money during a trip to Florida.
From sprawling open-air exhibits to interactive experiences like feeding giraffes, Zoo Miami offers a chance to see diverse wildlife in naturalistic settings. We love the way the zoo is designed to mimic animal habitats across continents—from Africa to Australia—making the experience not just fun but also educational. You’ll appreciate the variety of animals, the well-maintained grounds, and the family-friendly amenities. One thing to keep in mind is that the zoo covers a vast 340 acres, which means plenty of walking—and comfortable shoes are a must.
This experience suits families, animal lovers, and anyone looking for a full-day adventure with a good dose of nature and wildlife. While the ticket price is quite reasonable at $25 per person, remember that some attractions like rides and personal animal encounters are not included. If you’re after a relaxed, value-packed day with opportunities to learn and explore, Zoo Miami might just be your next favorite outing.
Key Points
- Vast and diverse: Over 3,000 animals across continents in naturalistic habitats.
- Interactive opportunities: Feed a giraffe or meet zookeepers during scheduled talks.
- Beautiful grounds: Over 1,200 species of plants complement the animal exhibits.
- Family-friendly: Play areas and accessible paths cater to kids and adults alike.
- Affordable entry: $25 per ticket, with optional lunch baskets for added value.
- Well-reviewed: Consistent positive feedback for animal variety and staff friendliness.
What makes Zoo Miami a standout?
Zoo Miami, officially the 5th largest zoo in the US, is a sprawling 340-acre space that transports visitors across the globe through its themed exhibits. Its design emphasizes large, open-air enclosures, giving animals room to roam and visitors a chance to see them in settings that resemble their natural environments.
Looking for more options in Zoo Miami? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The layout and design
The zoo is organized into different zones representing Africa, Asia, the Amazon, Australia, and, uniquely, Florida’s native wildlife in the “Mission Everglades” exhibit. Walking through these zones feels like traveling around the world, but you can also rent bikes, electric vehicles, or take a guided tour to cover more ground comfortably. Many reviewers have pointed out that the zoo is quite large, so planning your route and wearing comfy shoes can make all the difference.
Animal exhibits and encounters
A major highlight—highlighted repeatedly in reviews—is the chance to see animals like koalas, tigers, elephants, jaguars, and gorillas in open, spacious environments. The Wings of Asia Aviary, noted as the largest Asian-themed aviary in the western hemisphere, offers hundreds of free-flying birds and a chance to witness vibrant tropical species up close.
Those looking for interaction will love the Samburu feeding station, where you can feed a giraffe—a memorable experience that many reviewers describe as a “must-do.” Plus, scheduled “Meet the Zookeeper” talks allow visitors to get insider insights about animal care, which adds educational value beyond just viewing.
Unique exhibits and features
The Florida: Mission Everglades exhibit is a recent addition that captures the essence of local wildlife. Here, you can see alligators, crocodiles, river otters, and even a bald eagle. Some visitors have mentioned the possibility of riding an airboat on Lostmans River for an additional fee, making it an exciting opportunity to experience Florida’s wetlands firsthand.
The Amazon and Beyond exhibit offers a mini rainforest experience with jaguars, anacondas, frogs, and a 48,000-gallon aquarium. The diversity of habitats is designed to mimic real ecosystems, making animal spotting engaging and satisfying.
More Great Tours NearbyThe educational and family experience
Reviewers consistently praise the zoo’s efforts in conservation and education. The conservation building includes interactive games for kids that promote awareness about protecting wildlife. The Playworld Playground is also a hit among families, providing a space for children to unwind with jungle-themed and water park features.
Food, shopping, and amenities
Zoo Miami offers several food and drink kiosks scattered throughout the grounds, with options for quick bites like burgers, chicken tenders, and salads. For those who purchase the lunch basket upgrade, the food is tasty, and the included drink with a souvenir cup adds a nice touch. The gift shop is well-stocked with souvenirs, and many visitors find it a worthwhile stop for keepsakes.
What to Expect on Your Visit
Arrival and Entry: The ticket process is smooth, especially if bought online—many reviewers noted how much easier it was to skip the lines. Entrance is wheelchair accessible, accommodating visitors with mobility needs.
Getting around: The grounds are large; walking is the most common way to explore. Rent a bike or electric vehicle for convenience, especially if visiting with children or in hot weather. Rest stops and kiosks help prevent fatigue or dehydration.
Animal Encounters: Be prepared for scheduled talks and feeding times. Bring your driver’s license for identification, especially if participating in animal feeding activities.
Exhibits and attractions: Spend time exploring each zone, from African lions and tigers to rainforest frogs and Australian tree kangaroos. Some animals may be inside due to weather conditions, but the zoo staff generally do a great job keeping visitors informed.
Kid-friendly features: The Playworld is perfect for children to blow off steam, and the educational exhibits serve both fun and learning.
Analyzing the Value for Money
At $25 per person, Zoo Miami offers a pretty compelling value. You’ll get a full day of engaging animal viewing, interactive experiences, and beautiful landscapes. The optional lunch baskets and souvenirs are extra but add convenience and fun.
Reviewers have highlighted how the variety of animals and the well-maintained grounds make this ticket a good investment. The ability to see animals from Africa, Asia, Australia, and Florida on one trip makes it feel like multiple trips in one day, especially for travelers on a limited schedule.
The zoo’s size and diversity mean you’ll want to allocate at least 4-6 hours, and possibly more if you wish to partake in additional activities like animal feeding or riding an airboat. The overall impression is that the price reflects good value—you’re paying for a comprehensive, well-organized wildlife experience.
Practical Tips for Visiting Zoo Miami
- Arrive early to beat the crowds and see more animals before midday heat.
- Wear comfortable shoes—this is a large zoo, and walking is unavoidable.
- Consider renting a bike or electric vehicle if you want to cover more ground quickly.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and water—shade and hydration are critical.
- Check the schedule for meet-the-zookeeper talks and feeding times, so you don’t miss out.
- If you plan to eat on-site, the lunch basket option offers a tasty, hassle-free meal.
- Purchase tickets online in advance to skip lines and ensure your preferred starting time.
- For selfie lovers, the Florida native animals and African vistas are particularly photogenic.
- Keep an eye on the weather; some animals may be indoors during rain, but many reviews say they are still visible.
FAQs
Is the ticket valid for one day only?
Yes, the general admission ticket is valid for one day. Check the availability to see the starting times that suit your schedule.
Are there guided tours included?
No, guided tours are not included in this ticket. However, you can participate in scheduled Meet the Zookeeper talks to learn more about the animals.
Can I upgrade my experience?
While the basic ticket covers entry, you can upgrade with options like a lunch basket, souvenir cup, or gift shop discounts.
Are there any age restrictions?
The ticket provides access to all exhibits, and the zoo is family-friendly. The Playworld Playground is designed for children, and most exhibits are accessible for all ages.
Is there wheelchair access?
Yes, the zoo is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for visitors with mobility needs to enjoy the grounds.
Are food and drinks available on-site?
Yes, there are multiple food and drink kiosks, but bringing your own snacks is not permitted. The lunch basket upgrade provides a convenient meal option.
What should I bring with me?
Bring your driver’s license for identification if needed, along with comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
Are animals kept indoors during bad weather?
Some animals may be inside due to weather conditions, but most exhibits are designed to be accessible, and many animals are still visible during rain.
Can I see Florida wildlife at the zoo?
Absolutely. The Mission Everglades exhibit features native animals like alligators, crocodiles, river otters, and bald eagles, giving a local wildlife experience.
Visiting Zoo Miami offers a lively, family-friendly, and educational outing that covers a lot of ground—literally. The openness of the exhibits, the variety of animals, and the scenic landscaping create an experience that feels both expansive and intimate. The thoughtful design means you’ll have plenty of opportunities for memorable encounters, whether it’s feeding a giraffe or learning about conservation efforts.
The price point makes it accessible for most travelers, especially with the option to add a meal or souvenirs. The positive reviews highlight its well-maintained facilities, friendly staff, and impressive animal diversity, reinforcing its reputation as a top-tier zoo.
If you’re traveling with kids, wildlife enthusiasts, or simply want a full day of outdoor fun, Zoo Miami is a dependable choice. Just remember to plan ahead, wear comfortable shoes, and bring your camera—there’s plenty to see and do for everyone.
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