Donna R.
Yelp
While visiting family in Miami, I decided to go to Zoo Miami. ( yes it's called Zoo Miami. It is also known as The Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens)
It's the largest zoo in Florida and the 5th largest in the US. It's located on 750 acres including behind-the-scenes tours. It's the only sub-tropical zoo in the continental US. You can split it up over two days for an extra cost of $10 per person within 10 days.
It was a beautiful hot sunny day 85°. I chose to go on a Tuesday 11/26/24 and It was the perfect time. It wasn't crowded and parking was very easy.There is handicapped parking spaces. I got a parking spot up front. There is no charge for parking.I highly recommend ordering tickets online I think there's an extra fee attached, and picking them up at the window.I didn't know to do this at the time, so I just got in line and was lucky within minutes I went up to the window to purchase my tickets.if you purchase the tickets online then you can get in to the fast line and not have to wait in those long lines.Zoo Miami has 2000 animals and 375 species. The Zoo is open everyday from 10a- 5pm.( The last ticket is sold at 4pm.) They also hold evening events, and are open during the holidays. (I would suggest double checking times during the holidays or if you want to see certain animals or attend their Zoo Lights Event at Night for special holiday events this is not included with a day pass.)
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND RENTING THEIR SAFARI CYCLES for $54. ( you do have to pedal, but it's very easy, and one person controls the entire cycle.)Rentals are for 3 hours. If you go over it's another $20. You must purchase the rental on their online app. It can be done at the park, that's what we did. It's the best way to get around easily. It takes 5-6 hours by foot .. On a hot days it's nice to rent the SAFARI CYCLES bc you have a canvas cover over your head, giving you shade and there's a place for water bottles,or beer to be held.) Small cycles accommodate up to two adults and two small children in the front basket.The large cycles accommodate four adults and two small children in the front basket. I actually saw some cycles that packed more because they had 4 children, and 2 adults. You can also rent a MINI BIKE which is decorated like a safari animal. It's pricey at $75 for 3 hrs and it holds two people and can go quit fast. It's all open and there must be an adult driver.They provide locks so when we chose to get off the cycle and see an exhibit, we were able to lock up our cycle. You can also rent strollers, wheelchairs, ECV's ( electric convenience vehicles) you must be 21 and leave ID to pick up rentals.They have Safari trams It's $5 for an all day pass. You can get on and off.
There is a VIP Tour, Behind The Scenes Tour, and an Adventurous Expedition Tour. ( check for prices.) They also have Upgrades and Activities like-Lostman's River Ride, Pedal Boats, and Wildlife Carousel, Greater One Horned Rhino Experience, African Elephant Experience, Pygmy Hippo Experience, Camel Feeding, Giraffe, Feeding, Galapagos Tortoise Experience,and Parrot Feeding. I saw the Samburu Feeding which was the Giraffes up close and personal. This Station is very popular and kids love this. They do get long lines.You can only feed the Giraffes at certain times of the day. All the animal feedings are posted. For $5 you get a couple of romaine leaves, or for $12 you get an entire basket of leaves. I counted 6 giraffes and they walk right up to the tall stand and you can feed them right from your hands.I was amazed at how calm and gentle they are. There are many attractions and exhibits to see. Many exhibits are interactive, which children love.They have many different kinds of Reptiles which were located inside, and large fish, ducks, flamingos etc. There's a cool Amazon area, which was tropical and lush and several waterfalls.
There are several splash pads and water fun areas in the park. ( kids love this especially on hot days. I recommend bringing a back pack,wagon, or stroller to get around when walking. Also water shoes.
They also have a gift shop. It's a bit pricey. I would definitely return