Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, located on the banks of the Trout River in Jacksonville, Florida, is one of the largest and most visited zoos in the southeastern United States. Spanning over 120 acres, the zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals and over 1,000 plant species. Established in 1914, the Jacksonville Zoo has grown into a world-class facility known for its immersive animal exhibits, beautifully landscaped gardens, and commitment to wildlife conservation and education.

The zoo offers a wide range of interactive experiences, including animal encounters, train rides, behind-the-scenes tours, and educational programs. Its dedication to both animals and plants makes it a unique destination for families, tourists, and nature enthusiasts. The Jacksonville Zoo is also accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), reflecting its high standards in animal care, education, and conservation efforts.

History and Mission

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens began modestly in 1914 with the purchase of a single red deer. Over the decades, the zoo expanded its collection and developed its facilities to better serve both animals and visitors. In the 1990s, the zoo underwent a major transformation with the opening of new exhibits, such as the Range of the Jaguar and the Plains of East Africa, which placed a greater emphasis on creating naturalistic habitats for the animals.

The zoo’s mission is to “foster understanding of wildlife and inspire conservation action.” This mission is reflected in its ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the importance of protecting endangered species and preserving biodiversity through conservation, education, and sustainable practices.

Exhibits and Animal Encounters

1. Range of the Jaguar: One of the zoo’s most impressive and award-winning exhibits is the Range of the Jaguar, which showcases animals native to Central and South America. This immersive exhibit transports visitors to the rainforests of the Amazon, where they can observe majestic jaguars in a beautifully designed, naturalistic environment.

Jaguars: The exhibit features several jaguars, and the zoo is an active participant in the Jaguar Species Survival Plan (SSP), which helps protect this iconic species through breeding programs and education.
Giant Otters: Guests can watch playful giant otters swimming in their spacious water habitat.
Capybaras and Anteaters: The largest rodents in the world, capybaras, can be found grazing in the exhibit, along with giant anteaters.

2. African Savanna: The African Savanna is home to some of Africa’s most iconic species, offering visitors a chance to experience the sights and sounds of the African plains. The exhibit features wide, open spaces where animals roam together, creating a more authentic safari-like experience.

Giraffes: One of the highlights of the African Savanna is the opportunity to interact with giraffes at the Giraffe Overlook, where visitors can hand-feed the gentle giants.
Zebras, Ostriches, and Warthogs: These animals share the open plains, providing an authentic glimpse into the diverse wildlife of the African savanna.
Lions: The lion habitat offers close-up views of these magnificent predators as they lounge on rocks or patrol their territory.

3. Plains of East Africa: The Plains of East Africa exhibit provides a closer look at species native to the grasslands of East Africa. This exhibit features spacious habitats where animals like elephants, rhinoceroses, and wildebeests can roam.

Elephants: The zoo is home to African elephants, which can be observed in a large, well-designed habitat that includes a watering hole, mud wallows, and plenty of space for the animals to roam and socialize.
Rhinos: White rhinos, which are critically endangered, can also be seen here as part of the zoo’s commitment to conservation.

4. Wild Florida Wild Florida highlights the native wildlife of the Sunshine State, focusing on species that thrive in Florida’s unique ecosystems, such as wetlands, forests, and coastal areas.

American Alligators: Visitors can observe American alligators lounging by the water or swimming in their naturalistic habitat.
Florida Panthers: The zoo also houses Florida panthers, one of the state’s most endangered and iconic animals.
Manatees and River Otters: Aquatic animals like manatees and otters can be seen swimming through their exhibits, offering a glimpse into the freshwater ecosystems of Florida.

5. Asian Bamboo Gardens and Komodo Dragon Exhibit: This tranquil exhibit is home to Komodo dragons, the largest species of lizard in the world, and features beautifully landscaped bamboo gardens. Visitors can observe the massive reptiles as they bask in the sun or explore their habitat.

6. Land of the Tiger: The Land of the Tiger exhibit takes visitors on a journey to the forests of Southeast Asia, where they can observe endangered Malayan tigers in a naturalistic setting. This exhibit is designed to replicate the tigers’ natural habitat, offering them plenty of space to explore.

Tiger Trails: This unique exhibit features overhead walkways that allow the tigers to roam above the guests, providing an up-close and exciting experience.

7. African Forest: The African Forest is home to primates like chimpanzees and gorillas. Visitors can watch these intelligent animals as they interact with each other, climb trees, and explore their large, enriched habitats.

8. Australian Adventure: This exhibit focuses on wildlife from the land down under, featuring species such as kangaroos, wallabies, and cassowaries. The walkabout area allows visitors to get up close to these unique marsupials.

9. Penguin Exhibit: The Penguin Exhibit at the zoo is home to a colony of Magellanic penguins, which are native to South America. Visitors can watch the penguins swim, dive, and waddle in their temperature-controlled habitat.

Gardens at the Jacksonville Zoo

In addition to its wide variety of animal exhibits, the Jacksonville Zoo is also known for its lush gardens. The zoo’s commitment to horticulture is evident in the beautifully landscaped areas that blend seamlessly with the animal habitats.

Savanna Blooms Garden: Located near the African Savanna, this garden is filled with native and exotic plants that thrive in Florida’s subtropical climate.
Gardens of Trout River Plaza: This scenic garden offers a peaceful setting with fountains, shaded walkways, and vibrant flowerbeds. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation during a visit to the zoo.
Bamboo Garden: This area showcases a variety of bamboo species and provides a serene atmosphere that complements the nearby Komodo dragon exhibit.

Conservation and Education

1. Wildlife Conservation: The Jacksonville Zoo is deeply committed to conservation and is involved in various initiatives to protect endangered species and their habitats. The zoo participates in more than 50 Species Survival Plans (SSPs), which are collaborative breeding programs designed to ensure the long-term survival of endangered species. The zoo also supports field conservation efforts in places like Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia.

2. Education Programs: The Jacksonville Zoo offers a wide range of educational programs for children, families, and schools. Programs include zoo camps, behind-the-scenes tours, and field trips, where students can learn about wildlife and conservation in an engaging, hands-on environment.

Zoo School: The zoo’s Zoo School offers unique educational opportunities for young learners, teaching them about the natural world through interactive programs and animal encounters.
Zoo Teaches: Through the Zoo Teaches program, the zoo provides workshops, classes, and outreach programs that cover topics such as wildlife conservation, animal behavior, and the role of zoos in protecting endangered species.

Events and Experiences

1. Zoo Lights: During the holiday season, the Jacksonville Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with Zoo Lights, a special event featuring dazzling light displays, holiday music, and festive activities. Guests can explore the zoo at night while enjoying the holiday atmosphere.

2. Spooktacular: Spooktacular is the zoo’s annual Halloween event, offering a family-friendly experience with trick-or-treat stations, costume contests, and spooky decorations. It’s a fun way for families to enjoy the zoo during the fall season.

3. Animal Encounters: The zoo offers a variety of animal encounters where visitors can get up close to some of the animals. These experiences include giraffe feedings, penguin encounters, and behind-the-scenes tours with zookeepers. These encounters provide an educational opportunity to learn more about the animals and how they are cared for at the zoo.

4. Train and Carousel: The Zoo Train takes guests on a scenic ride around the park, providing a relaxing way to see the exhibits. The Wildlife Carousel features hand-carved animal figures and is a popular attraction for younger visitors.

Vicinity of Jacksonville Zoo

About the Area

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a major cultural and recreational asset for the Jacksonville community. It is located in a scenic area on the city’s northern outskirts, providing both residents and tourists with a family-friendly destination where they can connect with nature and wildlife. The zoo plays a vital role in the community by offering educational programs, conservation awareness, and a space for families to enjoy together.

Additional Details

Location: The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is located at 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218.
Hours of Operation: The zoo is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours during special events and holidays.
Admission: General admission prices vary for adults, children, and seniors. The zoo offers annual memberships that include free admission, special discounts, and other benefits.
Parking: Ample parking is available on-site, and parking is free for zoo visitors.
Accessibility: The zoo is fully accessible, with paved walkways, ramps, and wheelchair rentals available.
Dining and Shopping: The zoo has several on-site dining options, including cafes and snack stands offering meals, drinks, and snacks. The Zoological Society Gift Shop sells animal-themed merchandise, educational books, and souvenirs.

For more information visit: https://www.jacksonvillezoo.org