Jungle Island, Miami

Jungle Island is a tourist destination with wildlife from around the world living in a jungle within Miami’s tropical landscape. File photo: Rosemarie Mosteller, licensed.

Jungle Island, located on Watson Island in the heart of Miami, Florida, is a premier eco-adventure park that blends the beauty of nature with exciting attractions. Known for its immersive animal experiences and tropical surroundings, Jungle Island is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a unique blend of wildlife encounters, thrilling activities, and serene landscapes.

History and Transformation

Originally opened in 1936 as Parrot Jungle, the park was known for its vast collection of exotic birds and lush tropical foliage. Over the years, it evolved from a bird sanctuary into a full-fledged eco-adventure park. After relocating to Watson Island in 2003, the park was rebranded as Jungle Island, expanding its focus to include a wider variety of animals and interactive experiences.

In recent years, Jungle Island has undergone significant renovations and continues to reinvent itself as a modern attraction for families, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts. The park is committed to sustainability and education, offering a platform for conservation efforts and environmental awareness.

Attractions and Experiences

Jungle Island offers a variety of attractions that cater to different interests:

1. Animal Encounters: One of the park’s most popular features is its up-close-and-personal animal experiences. Visitors can interact with lemurs, sloths, flamingos, and other unique creatures. These encounters are educational, often led by expert guides who share insights into the animals’ behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts. The animal shows, including presentations featuring parrots, reptiles, and big cats, add a captivating dimension to the visit.

2. SuperFlight: For thrill-seekers, SuperFlight offers the chance to experience the sensation of skydiving in a vertical wind tunnel. This outdoor attraction allows guests to “fly” and enjoy a thrilling adventure without the need for jumping out of a plane.

3. Adventure Activities: Jungle Island’s focus on adventure is evident through its various offerings, including zip lines, a ropes course, and challenging obstacle courses. These activities are designed to engage visitors of all ages, from children to adults, providing a mix of excitement and physical challenge.

4. Treetop Adventures: This popular feature allows visitors to navigate a series of obstacles, rope bridges, and platforms set high among the park’s lush canopy. It provides a fun, adrenaline-pumping way to explore the jungle environment while testing balance and coordination.

5. Playgrounds and Water Play Areas: Families with younger children can enjoy playgrounds and water play areas, offering spaces to relax and cool off during the Miami heat. These areas are thoughtfully designed to ensure kids stay entertained while parents can unwind.

Events and Special Occasions

Jungle Island is a popular venue for hosting private events, weddings, corporate gatherings, and even team-building exercises. With its exotic backdrop, the park provides a unique environment for celebrations, offering customizable event spaces that make every occasion memorable. Jungle Island also frequently hosts seasonal and holiday-themed events, such as Halloween attractions and Christmas festivities, adding to its year-round appeal.

Educational Focus

Education and conservation are central to Jungle Island’s mission. The park offers programs for schools and youth groups, encouraging children to engage with wildlife and learn about biodiversity. It partners with various organizations to promote conservation initiatives and supports research efforts aimed at protecting endangered species.

Vicinity of Jungle Island

Nearby Attractions

The Art Deco Historic District: Located in the vibrant neighborhood of South Beach in Miami, the Art Deco District is one of the most iconic and visually stunning destinations in Florida.
Little Havana: located just west of Downtown Miami, is the beating heart of Miami’s Cuban-American community and one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
Lummus Park: A beachfront park offering walking trails, picnic areas, and workout equipment.
Key Biscayne: A tranquil island offering pristine beaches and outdoor activities like kayaking and biking.

Location and Accessibility

Situated on Watson Island between Downtown Miami and Miami Beach, Jungle Island’s location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. The park’s proximity to other major Miami attractions, such as the Port of Miami and the Miami Children’s Museum, makes it an ideal stop for families looking to explore the best of the city.

Additional Details

Location: Jungle Island is located at 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, FL 33132.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with holiday and event-specific hours available on the website.
Admission: General admission tickets are available for adults, children, and seniors. Discounts for groups, annual passes, and special events are offered.
Parking: On-site parking is available for an additional fee.
Accessibility: The park is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, pathways, and accessible restrooms throughout.

For more information visit: https://www.jungleisland.com