wildlife safari florida

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6 drive-through zoos and safaris in florida.

Family trip: Lion Country Safari

By Jill Martin

Sure, there’s plenty of wildlife in Florida, but have you ever viewed a giraffe from the comfort of your car?

You won’t find big screens or bags of popcorn at these drive-ins, but they're action-packed and provide lots of entertainment. Silence your cell phone and enjoy the show at these drive-through zoos in Florida.

1. J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge , Sanibel Island

Sunbathing gators, green herons, white ibis and a crocodile call this four-mile Wildlife Drive home. Roseate spoonbills can be found here year-round.

2. Lion Country Safari , West Palm Beach

Florida’s only drive-through safari boasts 800-plus animals, including wildebeests, rhinos and the world’s largest herd of captive zebras. But the giraffes steal the show at Lion Country Safari.

3. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge , Titusville

Amazing wildlife viewing is easy with the self-guided map that lists numbered stops along Black Point Drive. See gators, otters, turtles and hundreds of bird species, including eagles.

4. St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge , near Tallahassee

Rated five stars by birders, this seven-mile drive through zoo takes you past pinelands and salt marshes to Florida’s second-oldest lighthouse. Look for black bears, turkeys, deer and whooping cranes.

6.  Wild Florida , Kenansville

Features more than 200 animals, including exotics like zebras, sloths, lemurs and Watusi, and a walk-in bird aviary with pheasants, parrots and other birds from all over the world. Also: airboat tours, a drive-through safari park and animal shows.

Video tour of St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge

Places to remember.

Tallahassee

Sanibel Island

West Palm Beach

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Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari Park

SAFARI PARK TICKET

Some road trips take you across the country, but ours will take you across continents.

Buckle up for your wildest car ride yet! Travel down gravel paths within our Drive-thru Safari Park and discover more than 100 native and exotic animals roaming freely. During your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a variety of animals often only found around the world. Enjoy identifying species from as far away as the African savanna to others from the deciduous forests of North America, all from the comfort of your own car.

Expanding across 85 acres of untouched scenic landscapes, our wildlife and safari park presents a unique opportunity to bring you up close and personal with wild animals such as giraffes, zebra, eland antelope, scimitar oryx, American bison, mouflon sheep, and more! As you travel down our two-mile “unbeaten path,” you and your family can enjoy an exploration just feet away from animals you normally only see on TV.

But the fun you’ll have isn’t confined to your car. Inside our drive-through wildlife park, you can meet, greet and feed giraffes on our elevated giraffe feeding platform. (Talk about the perfect Facebook profile picture!).

After you’ve had your “four-wheel-fun” inside our drive-through animal park, stretch those legs inside our Gator Park. Admission to our Gator Park is included in the price of our Drive-thru Safari Park tickets and allows your family to view more than 200 additional animals, as well as enjoy a variety of educational animal shows.

Meet Crusher, our biggest American alligator (weighing just over 1,000 pounds). During the Crusher Show, you’ll learn more about American alligators and how Crusher stands out from the congregation. Watch a hands-on demonstration with some of our favorite Wild Florida residents during our Exotic Animal Show. And witness the power and speed of the American alligator during our Gator Feeding Show as you learn how strong their bite is along with how high they can jump out of the water.

Whether you’re a Florida resident or just visiting the Sunshine State, our wildlife safari park will give everyone in your family the opportunity to explore their wild side.

Additional Information: *Hours: 9.00am to 6.00pm *Tours do not operate on the following days: Sundays or Christmas Day, Easter Day and Thanksgiving Day

• Description

Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari Park - Explore the Ultimate Wildlife Adventure

Unleash your Sense of Adventure

Welcome to Aventuras Naturales' Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari Park, a premier destination for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts. Located in the heart of Orlando, FL, our Safari Park offers an immersive wildlife experience like no other. Get ready to journey through lush landscapes, encounter majestic creatures, and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Discover Our Diverse Animal Kingdom

At Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari Park, we take pride in our diverse range of wildlife inhabitants. From African lions to graceful giraffes, curious zebras to playful monkeys, our park is home to an extensive collection of exotic animals. As you drive through the park, you'll witness these magnificent creatures up close, observing their natural behaviors in a safe and controlled environment.

Close Encounters with Majestic Species

Prepare to be amazed as you come face to face with the king of the savannah, the African lion. Watch in awe as these majestic creatures roam freely in their expansive habitats. Capture stunning photographs of these regal animals and learn about their conservation status from our knowledgeable guides.

Up-close Interactions with Gentle Giants

One of the highlights of our Safari Park is the opportunity to feed and interact with our friendly giraffes. These magnificent creatures will amaze you with their towering presence and gentle nature. Feed them their favorite treats, feel their curious tongues, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Monkey Island - Fun for All Ages

If you're looking for entertainment and laughter, Monkey Island is the place to be. Observe these energetic primates swinging from tree to tree, playing around, and showcasing their acrobatic skills. Hear their playful chatters and witness their mischievous antics as you drive past their unique habitat.

Flamingo Lagoon - Grace and Elegance

As you venture through our Safari Park, don't miss the stunning beauty of Flamingo Lagoon. Behold the vibrant pink hues of these elegant birds as they gracefully wade through the shallow waters. This picturesque setting offers the perfect backdrop for a serene and tranquil experience.

Zebras and More - Unveil the Wonders of Wildlife

Our park is also home to herds of zebras, gazelles, and various antelope species. Witness the striking contrast of black and white stripes and marvel at the agility of these mesmerizing creatures as they roam freely in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the animal kingdom at its finest.

Explore the Natural Wonders

Not only does Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari Park offer an extraordinary wildlife experience, but it also allows you to discover the natural wonders of our luscious surroundings. Marvel at the picturesque landscapes, lush greenery, and tranquil lakes that make up our park's ecosystem.

The Serenity of Nature

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life, and find solace in the serene surroundings of our park. Embrace the beauty of nature as you drive along the winding trails, taking in the sights and sounds of the wild. Our carefully curated park ensures a harmonious balance between conservation and visitor experience.

Education and Conservation

Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari Park is not just about entertainment; it's a center for education and conservation. We are committed to raising awareness about wildlife protection, sustainability, and preserving natural habitats. Our dedicated team of experts works tirelessly to ensure the well-being and safety of our animal residents.

Memories to Last a Lifetime

Make lasting memories with family and friends as you embark on this remarkable journey. Capture precious moments as you witness the wonders of the animal kingdom together. Whether it's a family outing, a school field trip, or a day of adventure, our Safari Park offers an experience that will leave you in awe.

Plan Your Visit

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure at Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari Park? Plan your visit today and experience the thrill of encountering incredible wildlife up close. Our park offers various ticket options and guided tours to suit your preferences. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity to create cherished memories and deepen your appreciation for the natural world.

Location and Contact Information

Aventuras Naturales' Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari Park is conveniently located in the vibrant city of Orlando, FL. For more information about our park, ticket prices, and guided tours, please visit our website or contact our friendly staff. We look forward to welcoming you to an extraordinary wildlife adventure.

• Website: aventurasnaturales.org/drive-thru-safari-park
• Address: 123 Safari Park Road, Orlando, FL 12345
• Phone: 555-123-4567
• Email: [email protected]

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Wild Florida

• 3301 Lake Cypress Road Kenansville, FL 34739
• (407) 957-3135 866-532-7167

Travel to a world beyond your imagination, just 30 minutes from the city of Orlando! At Wild Florida, your family can choose to ride, walk, or drive-thru an adventure of their choice, coming within feet of wild and exotic animals. Let your family's hair blow in the wind as you take a thrilling airboat ride through the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. Our U.S. Coast Guard-certified airboats will transport you to areas where you can catch glimpses of eagles, alligators, and other native wildlife. It's perfect for the young or the young at heart - a real treat for adventure seekers in the family.

Next, embark on a wild walk through our Gator Park, where you can feed real live alligators or even try gator fishing. You'll also have the opportunity to snap some of the best selfies around with sloths, lemurs, capybaras, or other furry friends. For a more serene experience, stroll across the boardwalk in the Hawk Swamp and immerse yourself in the beauty of Central Florida, taking in all the sights and sounds nature has to offer.

When hunger strikes, be sure to stop by The Chomp House Grill for some of the best barbecue and gator bites in the area.

Before heading home, buckle up for the wildest drive at Wild Florida. Our Drive-thru Safari Park offers your family the chance to be within feet of over 100 native and exotic animals, including zebras, giraffes, bison, and more. It's a unique opportunity to see animals native to other parts of the world right in Central Florida, all from the comfort of your car. And the fun doesn't stop there! After your journey, visit the Giraffe Platform to feed some of the tallest residents of Central Florida, Walter and Leroy, who can't wait to say "Hi!"

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DRIVE-THRU SAFARI TOUR

Quick Details

• Users Ages: All Ages
• Clock Duration: 1 Hour
• Car Car: No motorcycles, no nursing home vans and no commercial vehicles. Cars, SUVs and pickup trucks are allowed. Tops must be up on convertibles and no one in the back of pickup trucks.
• Users Capacity: Maximum of 7 occupants (this includes babies). If your group has more than 7, you'll be charged for 2 vehicles.
• Dollar Animal Feed: Enhance your drive-thru experience with animal food bags! Available for purchase for $10 each.
• Info Please be advised: Gates will shut 10 minutes after your scheduled safari start time. Please allow yourself plenty of travel for unforeseen circumstances. No refunds. No rescheduling.

Explore the Safari Wilderness Ranch in Lakeland, FL From the Comfort of Your Own Vehicle!

We now offer guided drive-thru safari tours on our 260 acre ranch seen from the comfort of your own vehicle! These drive-thru safari tours will be conducted through reservation only and will last approximately one hour. Visitors will be experiencing and viewing our exotic animal reserve while maintaining social distancing. Get out in nature, relax, learn about what you are experiencing, and most importantly be in a safe environment. When you reserve with us, you’ll be helping us continue caring for our animals, our staff, and our conservation efforts.

Please Note: The feed is for the petting zoo area only. Feeding animals from vehicles is prohibited as wild animals with large horns and antlers can cause damage to the vehicle as they get too excited.

• Chevron down Reservation Information
• Reservations are required. No cancellations. All sales are final.
• Daily tour times available from 9AM-3PM.
• Gates open 30 minutes prior to tour times.
• Tours go out rain or shine.
• Questions? Call (813) 382-2120.

Optional Add-Ons

• Chevron down Feed Ring-Tailed Lemurs

You can enter the ring-tailed lemur habitat with a guide and hand feed grapes to a troop of playful prosimians. Ring-tailed lemurs are very polite. They will line up to gently touch your hand with theirs, carefully removing a grape from your fingers. They tilt their heads back, so as not to lose one drop of grape juice!

• Chevron down Premium Cheetah Encounter

Our cheetah encounter is for people who really love cheetahs. Our professional cheetah keepers will take you along in their daily animal care routine and you will see the animals up close. You will be helping us feed the cats and will the assume the role of an assistant zookeeper.

The customized experience lasts at least 30 minutes. This experience is not available for drive-thru safari goers. This activity is by special request and reservation only.

Related Activities

• Our best and most exciting tour!
• Clock 2.5 Hours
• Users All Ages

Custom Vehicle Safari Tour

Join us on Florida’s premier open air vehicle safari wilderness tour! Each of our customized safari trucks is equipped with stadium seating and a full-coverage canvas shade. Riders will have the opportunity to feed the animals from the Safari Truck. Optional add-ons available. Book online now!

Our guides work rain or shine; tips are appreciated.

• Clock 1.5 Hours
• Users Ages 16+

ATV Safari Tour

Explore the Safari Wilderness Ranch by ATV! Get a sense of freedom and exhilaration while viewing hundreds animals in natural herds over vast landscapes. Led by an experienced naturalist guide through our 260 acre ranch. Optional add-ons available. Book online now!

• Clock 2 Hours
• Users Ages 5+

Kayak Safari Tour

Navigate through our freshwater areas by kayak and enjoy spectacular, up-close encounters with our wetland species such as common and Defassa waterbuck, red lechwe, and more! Optional add-ons available. Book online!

Safari Wilderness

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Safari Wilderness - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 5:00 AM
• (9.97 mi) Camp Margaritaville Auburndale
• (6.83 mi) Hampton Inn Lakeland
• (6.80 mi) Days Inn & Suites By Wyndham Lakeland
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• (6.96 mi) Extended Stay America Premier Suites Lakeland-I-4
• (5.91 mi) The Red Top Pit Stop
• (7.81 mi) Ford's Garage Lakeland
• (7.45 mi) Fancy Q Sushi &Thai
• (9.85 mi) Tapatio's Restaurant Mexicano
• (4.40 mi) Granger & Sons Barb-B-Que

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Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari Park

Buckle up for a unique animal adventure — from the comfort of your own car.

Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari Park is a self-guided journey to get up close and personal with hundreds of wild animals.  

Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari Park. Image: @wildfloridaairboats on Instagram.

To keep up with the latest news on deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the  Orlando on the Cheap  newsletter, follow on  Facebook  or on  Instagram .

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WILD FLORIDA’S DRIVE-THRU SAFARI PARK

You never know who you will greet you on your 2-mile trek through Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari Park . The animals roam freely through the 85-acre park, home to more than 100 exotic animals and native Florida wildlife like white-tailed deer, bison, cracker cows, zebras, watusi, oryx and more.

Florida Resident discount at Wild Florida’s Drive-thru Park

• Florida Residents: $23 adult, $18 per child.
• Ages 13 and up are considered adults.
• Valid Florida ID required at check-in.

Groupon deals

• The attraction is also running special deals through Groupon for a limited time.

General admission cost:

• $33 per adult, $23 per child.

Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari. Image: @wildfloridaairboats Instagram.

To keep the experience safe for all visitors, you can book online for Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari Park and check in at an admission kiosk.

For the ultimate self-guided tour, download the safari scavenger hunt to see what animals you can find and the Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari Guide audio tour. 

The park is located 45 minutes from the Disney area.

Hours of operation: Monday – Saturday, 9am – 6pm.

NEW at Wild Florida! Wild Florida has doubled the size of its Drive-thru Safari, expanding by two miles bringing it to a total of four miles.

The current 85-acre Drive-thru Safari Park has expanded to a total of 170 acres. The trail will increase to four miles and eventually feature more exotic animals like gemsbok, kudu, and springbok.

In addition to the more than 150 animals already on property, Wild Florida has increased the population of some of the existing animals by adding new herds of wildebeest, water buffalo, watusi cattle, eland antelope, brahman cattle and zebra. They have also introduced five more Highlander cattle, two camels, three ostrich and an all-white elk.

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Additional animal encounters available during checkout! NEW - Sloth and tortoise feedings!

WILDLIFE DRIVE-THRU SAFARI

Quick Details

• Clock Duration: 1 hour
• Bus Per Vehicle: All ages
• Bus Vehicle: No motorcycles or commercial vehicles

Enjoy Giraffe Ranch from Your Car!

For a limited time, Giraffe Ranch will be offering a unique experience in response to COVID-19. We now offer guided wildlife drive-thru safari tours on our ranch seen from the comfort of your own vehicle. These tours will be conducted through reservation only and will last approximately one hour. Visitors will be experiencing and viewing our exotic animal reserve while maintaining social distancing. Get out in nature, relax, learn about what you are experiencing, and most importantly, be in a safe environment. When you reserve with us you will be helping us continue caring for our animals, our staff, and our conservation efforts.

• Chevron down Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of animals do you have?

Giraffe Ranch has hundreds of animals representing 70+ different species all housed under huge, ancient oaks and grass lands in this beautiful environment that is right out of an African safari. Because our property consists of about 50 acres of pristine wilderness, we’re able to house a variety of exotic species such as giraffe, zebra, bongo antelope, otters, lemurs, hippos, pere’ Davids deer, warthogs, monkeys, and more! You’ll also have a chance to see a variety of native wildlife.

I do not want to pay for a tour; can I just come and feed the animals?

No. The optional add-ons are only available with the purchase of one of our safaris.

Which tour time is best to view the animals?

All of our tour times are great! The animals that we house here are specifically chosen because they do well in central Florida’s climate.

Where do your animals come from?

Because we have so much space for our animals, babies are a very common thing! Most of our animals are born onsite. We buy, sell, and trade with other licensed facilities.

What should I wear?

Although not required, we recommend close-toed shoes. We go rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather.

Can I bring my pet?

We do not allow any unauthorized animals on the premises, which includes our driveway and parking lot. Please leave all dogs, cats, and other furry critters at home.

Will I see every animal during the tour?

Our guides make every effort to encourage our residents to greet our tour groups but the distance at which they are viewed can vary due to the large areas our animals inhabit.

Other things to know

We do not do special pricing for children, infants, seniors, etc.

RELATED TOURS

• Clock 1.5 hours
• Users Per Person All ages

Custom Safari Vehicle Tour

Just like an African Safari, our custom vehicle safari is fully guided on our 4 wheel drive safari vehicles. Participants will enjoy views of zebra, tapir, deer, and more!

• Users Per Person Ages 14+

Segway Safari Tour

Segway Safaris are akin to walking safaris done in Africa, minus the sweat and effort. Using this method of transportation, you can stand at eye-level with zebras, pygmy hippos, and more!

• Users Per Person Ages 3+

Camel Safari Tour

Come experience a Camel-Back Safari! Become a part of the herd and rediscover the experiences our human ancestors had. Led by two experienced tour guides/camel handlers.

• Last Updated On
• April 26, 2024

Drive Through This One-Of-A-Kind Florida Safari Park With Over 150 Free-Roaming Animals

Florida never ceases to amaze with its wealth of natural beauty and wild adventures.

Let’s venture into the heart of a safari park where over 150 animals roam freely across expansive landscapes.

Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park is not your typical walk in the park.

It’s where the pavement ends, and the wild begins!

Ready to spot your first wild animal?

Venturing into Wild Florida, you’re immediately struck by the expanse of untouched wilderness.

Here, the airboat experience is not just a ride but an expedition into a world that feels a million miles from the concrete jungle.

The wind in your hair, the spray of water in your face, and the roar of the airboat’s engine combine to create a symphony of sensations that’s both exhilarating and oddly soothing.

Let’s not forget the all-stars of the park: the gators.

These prehistoric creatures command respect and fascination.

Watching them from the safety of the airboat, you’ll see them basking in the sun, swimming gracefully, or perhaps even catching their lunch.

It’s a rare opportunity to witness these wild animals in their natural habitat, and it’s nothing short of spectacular.

But wait, there’s more!

The adventure continues with a drive through the safari park, where over 150 free-roaming animals call this slice of paradise home.

Picture a giraffe gracefully strutting alongside your vehicle or a herd of water buffalo lounging in the mud.

This isn’t just a bunch of animals hanging around waiting for something to happen—this is their turf, and they own it.

Every turn of the wheel brings a new surprise.

Will it be a zebra flaunting its stripes as if it knows it’s the height of fashion in the animal kingdom?

Or perhaps an ostrich, peering curiously at its reflection in the side mirror, giving you that “Who’s the fairest of them all?” look.

The whole experience is a reminder that sometimes, the best adventures don’t require a passport, just a sense of wonder and the eagerness to roll down your windows.

Welcome to the wild side of Florida, where every creature, great and small, is part of the magic.

And yes, that includes you too.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the Gator Park is a must-visit.

Now, you might think you’re just signing up to see some gators, which, let’s face it, are pretty much living dinosaurs.

But hold onto your hats because this place is like the Noah’s Ark of dry land.

You’ll stroll in, probably thinking about the last time you saw a gator outside of a handbag store and bam!

You’re face to face with zebras.

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And lemurs?

They’re like your quirky uncle who shows up to family events with the best stories.

They’ll cling to a tree, eyeing you with a curious gaze, making you feel like maybe you’re the one on display.

Oh, and let’s not forget the porcupines.

They might look like they have a permanent bad hair day, but they’re actually the introverts of the animal kingdom, just hanging out and waiting for Netflix to make a documentary about them.

The staff at Gator Park, bless their hearts, they’ll talk your ear off about every animal like proud parents at a graduation ceremony.

It’s a hoot!

Trust me, you’ll leave with more stories than you came up with, and a newfound appreciation for the critters that share our world.

Feeling peckish after all that excitement?

The Chomp House Grill serves up some hearty fare that’s sure to satisfy your appetite.

Whether you’re in the mood for gator bites (yes, you read that right) or something a little less adventurous, the menu has something for everyone.

Dining al fresco, with nature’s soundtrack in the background, adds to the charm of the experience.

What truly sets Wild Florida apart is the commitment to conservation and education.

The park is not just about providing thrills but about fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

By participating in their interactive programs, guests leave with a greater understanding of the importance of preserving our environment.

Safety is paramount at Wild Florida.

The staff takes great care to ensure that every visitor has a fun and safe experience.

Whether you’re on an airboat or exploring Gator Park on foot, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands.

Planning your visit is a breeze.

The park is open year-round, and it’s advisable to check the weather before you go, as some activities are best enjoyed on a sunny day.

You can book your tickets online or at the gate, but remember, the early bird gets the worm, or in this case, the best airboat departure times!

If you’re looking to capture memories, bring your camera.

The park is a photographer’s dream, with stunning landscapes, captivating wildlife, and the raw beauty of Florida’s wetlands.

Each photo will tell a story of your adventure in this untamed oasis.

And when the day is done, the memories made at Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park will linger long after you’ve left.

It’s a place that embodies the spirit of Florida —wild, untamed, and utterly unforgettable.

For more information on this exceptional safari park, don’t hesitate to visit its website or check out its vibrant Facebook page .

And to plan your route, use this handy map to guide you straight to the heart of the adventure.

Where: 3301 Lake Cypress Rd, Kenansville, FL 34739

So, have you marked your calendar for a wild encounter with Florida’s finest?

This Special Wildlife Sanctuary Is One Of The Best Destinations In Florida For Animal Lovers

I t is no secret that Florida is one of the most biodiverse states in the United States. Living everywhere, from the hundreds of miles of white sand beaches to the marshlands in Everglades National Park, animals big and small are part of Florida's many ecosystems. While native species like alligators may first come to mind when thinking of Florida wildlife, the Sunshine State has some wildlife sanctuaries with animals from all over the world, and we're not just talking about Carole Baskin's famous Tampa sanctuary, which gained international fame from the "Tiger King" docuseries.

Further south from Tampa, along the Florida peninsula's west coast, is the  Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary in Punta Gorda. Many of the animals at Octagon have been rescued from unfavorable environments wherein they could not receive proper care, such as the homes of private citizens who wrongfully owned these animals as pets. As such, this  inspiring wildlife sanctuary is not a zoo and does not remove its animals from the wild. Today, the Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary houses reptiles, big cats, primates, and more.

Read more: 75 Things Every American Should Do In Their Lifetime

Learn About The Sanctuary's Residents With Guided Tours

A trip to the Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary is both educational and heartwarming. The tour guides can teach you about each animal and the unique stories of how they arrived at the sanctuary. Among them is Cady the capuchin monkey, a species made famous by films like "Night at the Museum" and "Gigi and Nate." Cady was anonymously left at the sanctuary's gates in 2014. Thanks to the Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary, Cady receives professional care and spends her time enjoying her toys and television.

To visit the Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary, you must book a tour online ahead of time. The further in advance, the better, as days fill up quickly. The sanctuary is surprisingly affordable. At the time of writing, tours cost $20 for adults and $10 for kids, while those under 3 can visit for free. Tours take around an hour and a half, and be sure to arrive 15 minutes before it begins. After your tour, don't miss the chance to show your support for this nonprofit by picking up items from its gift shop.

Continue Your Wildlife Adventures At The Nearby Babcock Ranch Preserve

Accentuating the charms of the Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary, the area surrounding Punta Gorda is the perfect place for wildlife lovers . Less than 30 minutes from the sanctuary is Manatee Park in Fort Myers, where you can rent kayaks or canoes and paddle along the Orange River to try to spot manatees in the winter months. Keep in mind that these gentle giants are endangered, so admire from afar if you see one.

Just 7 miles northeast of the Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary is the Babcock Ranch Preserve , which offers eco-tours through the swampy ecosystems. You might see alligators, birds, deer, and hogs on this hour-and-a-half tour of landscapes found in only a few other places across the United States. There is also a working cattle ranch on this tour. You can either opt for an eco-tour with a guide on a swamp buggy for just $24 per adult and $16 per child (at the time of writing) or take a self-guided tour on foot for free. Remember to reserve your spot online for either tour.

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Roadside America, Atlas Obscura say these are top offbeat destinations in Palm Beach County

Florida long has been singled out for the unusual. But don’t just take our word for it: Two outfits that celebrate the offbeat, Atlas Obscura and Roadside America , both love the state, home to nearly 400 entries in the first guide and more than 600 in the other. 

Palm Beach County carries its fair share of the noteworthy — the dinosaur that was moved from a nuclear power plant and the grave of Addison Mizner's monkey, among them.

Maybe you've heard of some of these quirky draws, or maybe all of them have been tucked somewhere in the deep folds of your memory, where you go to fetch the valued answers on Trivia night at your local bar. But there's something about seeing them curated in published lists. This is Florida, after all, in all its weird and fascinating glory.

“Florida is jam packed with weird and unusual attractions,” Roadside America co-founder Doug Kirby said in March from California. “Hardly any states can rival the quality and the quantity.” 

Roadside America was founded in the mid-1990s and covers more than 15,000 places in the United States and Canada. Its web page features maps covered in distinctive red push pins. The Roadside folks warn that listed places can close or change, so people should check before they go. In fact, we spotted one and alerted Kirby. 

Atlas Obscura launched in 2009. The web page — the Obscura folks didn’t get back to us — features more than 28,300 places around the globe, about 11,000 of them in the U.S. 

To save you the work, we have combined the finds from both sources into one guide.

We present to you these Palm Beach County sites that made one or both lists (AO: Atlas Obscura; RA: Roadside America):

Fogelman Sports History Museum, Boca Raton (RA)

At Florida Atlantic University, Avron Fogelman, former Kansas City Royals owner and longtime Boca Raton-area resident, donated his private sports memorabilia collection . The museum, which opened in 2020 , includes uniforms worn by Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio, and Hank Aaron, as well as one of the Royals’ 1985 World Series Trophies. 

FAU, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton ; fau.edu/artsandletters

Man and Monkey statue, Boca Raton (RA)

The 11-foot, ton-and-a-half statue, installed in 2005 on a tower at the south entrance to Royal Palm Place, shows Addison Mizner, godfather of Boca Raton, holding his beloved monkey, Johnnie Brown. Mizner, a California-born and trained architect, came to Palm Beach County in 1918 and made his first inroads in Palm Beach, introducing "Mediterranean style architecture" to the Everglades Club, according to the Boca Raton Historical Society.

As his local business endeavors took off, Mizner built a hotel on the west bank of Lake Boca Raton, opening in 1926 as the Ritz-Carlton Cloister Inn. He also mapped out miles of streets, administration buildings and plans for many homes. At one point, Mizner headed a group that owned two miles of oceanfront in the city and up to 1,600 acres in all with the intention of transforming Boca Raton into "the world's most architecturally beautiful playground," the society reports.

The monkey became almost as well-known as the man, earning mentions on current tours of Palm Beach and in written history kept by the likes of The Colony Hotel and others.

Royal Palm Place, 201-299 Via De Palmas, Boca Raton

Meter Men, Delray Beach (RA)

Three dancing stick figures with parking meter heads were installed in the early 1990s in Banker's Row Park, just north of Old School Square, to “guard” a meter-free parking lot. According to Palm Beach Post archives, the meters were commissioned by the city and crafted by former resident David Gochenour for $4,500.

Though they could bring a smile to anyone's face, they also proved to be wobbly and unsafe, due either to poor construction or faulty installation, depending on who was pointing the finger, the city or the artist. When some stick figure arms snapped in 1993, the installation was removed and sent to an auto repair shop in Boca Raton to be rewelded and galvanized, the Post reported. The Meter Men returned to their post in 1994 and, today, are just one many public and private art installations that can be seen on a walk through downtown Delray Beach.

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens near Delray Beach (AO)

You likely have heard how Japanese immigrant George Morikami lost most of his assets in World War II. He later attained 200 acres and, late in life, donated it to the county “because America has been so good to me.” The museum and gardens has become one of the county’s most popular attractions.  

4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach; morikami.org, 561-495-0233

Witch's Wall in Palm Beach (AO)

The southwest corner of the Palm Beach Country Club is a tall mound of rock and coquina. A small window carved into the south face and covered with a gate is said to be the Witch's Wall .

According to Atlas Obscura: "The road is fascinating enough from a geological standpoint: different layers and patterns are easily visible. But what makes this stretch a local legend known as the Witch’s Wall has to do with the small window carved into the south face and covered with a metal gate." The atlas then repeats what it calls local legend about an evil witch who lives nearby in a home on top of the mound, or, alternately, a woman who was imprisoned in a basement by her son. The town says it’s a water pump station. 

736 N. Lake Way, Palm Beach

Flagler Museum, Palm Beach (AO, RS)

Whitehall, the former home of the man who put Palm Beach County on the modern map (that would be Henry Flagler) is an institution that speaks for itself . Roadside America mentions a gold telegram Flagler once received. 

1 Whitehall Way, Palm Beach; flaglermuseum.us

Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea, Palm Beach (AO)

The first church in Palm Beach County, and the first Protestant church in South Florida, was founded in 1889 in two smaller buildings. Those buildings predate even the town of Palm Beach by more than 20 years. For the current structure’s first service, on Christmas Day in 1926, many came on horseback and by boat.  

The church is modeled after the León Cathedral in Spain. Its cornerstone bears both the year of its groundbreaking and the year Ponce de Leon first landed on Florida's coast, 1513. The sun rises and sets though the story of Christianity depicted in dozens of its stained glass windows.

141 S County Road, Palm Beach; bbts.org

Johnnie Brown's grave, Palm Beach (RS, AO)

Consensus is the town of Palm Beach has only two graves: Laddie, a dog owned by a neighbor of architect Addison Mizner, and Mizner’s spider monkey, Johnnie Brown, whose marker sits off Worth Avenue in a courtyard of Pizza Al Fresco.

Mizner lived in an apartment of his own design on Worth Avenue, in a building that nestles within Via Mizner, a courtyard filled with restaurants, shops and residences. According to Atlas Obscura, Johnnie brown was one of Mizner's many unusual pets, and one that would ride along with Mizner as he made his rounds of Gilded Age society events. The monkey not only hobnobbed with the wealthy, but also reportedly ran for town mayor — by some accounts losing by only four votes. The grave marker indicates that Johnnie Brown died in April 1927.

14 Via Mizner, Palm Beach

Kennedy bunker, Peanut Island (AO, RS)

John F. Kennedy’s family had a winter estate in Palm Beach from 1933 to 1995. When he became president in 1961, the government dug a bunker on Peanut Island, a manmade island in the middle of the Palm Beach Inlet, with the idea that he could run the country from it in the case of a nuclear attack.

The bunker was not yet finished when Kennedy was assassinated. It stood empty for decades, then was restored in the 1990s. The Palm Beach Maritime Museum maintained it, and ran guided tours, until 2017.  In January 2022, Palm Beach County agreed to take over the bunker, renovate it, and run it as a county park. The parks department said in early March that it anticipates opening in the second half of 2026.  

Peanut Island; currently closed for renovations

Nuclear dinosaur, West Palm Beach (RA)

The T-rex statue nicknamed Rosie took post outside Turkey Point about a year after the facility opened south of Miami in 1967, according to the South Dade News Leader. The several-stories-tall, toothy beast withstood Hurricane Andrew in 1992 and changes to the plant in subsequent years.

In 2019, Rosie moved to West Palm Beach in front of the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium, now the Cox Science Center and Aquarium . 

4801 Dreher Trail N., West Palm Beach; www.coxsciencecenter.org

Lost city of Mangonia, West Palm Beach (AO)

Kansas minister, educator and horticulturist Elbridge Gale came to South Florida in 1884; he is believed to be the first on the mainland to build a cabin. It's believed some or all of the original cabin is in the existing structure of the Gale house, at 401 29th St. in West Palm Beach.

At the site, Gale developed what is likely the nation's first fruit-bearing, grafted West Indian mango tree. "Today, about 80 percent of the world's commercial mangoes (even in China and India) trace their roots back to the original variety developed here in Northwood," wrote Carl Flick, an urban planner who was advocating for a marker to the town in 2018.

Gale died in 1907. His 16-year-old daughter Hattie would become teacher at South Florida’s first schoolhouse, now located in a park in Palm Beach.  A town of Mangonia later was platted, but most of it became the Northwood neighborhood. A separate town of Mangonia Park, about two miles to the northwest, incorporated in 1947 .  

1928 hurricane mass grave, West Palm Beach (AO)

The great 1928 Okeechobee hurricane , which killed at least 2,500, has been called Palm Beach County’s most profound event and the most under-reported disaster in American history. Nearly 700 black victims were dumped in a mass grave that was unmarked for decades .  

25th Street and Tamarind Avenue, West Palm Beach

Bulk Candy Store Museum, near West Palm Beach (AO)

The family-run store  runs guided tours of the six-room gallery, which shows the history of sweets as well as candy-themed art and memorabilia. These include including vintage wrappers, giant Pez dispensers, and a golden ticket and Everlasting Gobstopper from "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," signed by the cast of the 1971 film, owner Ken Shenkman said. 

235 N. Jog Road, West Palm Beach; reservations required; 561-540-1600. bulkcandystore.com

1,000 Mermaids, off Palm Beach (AO)

In 2019, Palm Beach County dropped 100 tons of donated concrete and 18 mermaid and reef sculptures to create an artificial reef in 45 feet of water off the coast of north Palm Beach.   

The concrete came from the former Riviera Beach Marina and the old Flagler Bridge. The sculptures were made and donated by Boynton-Beach artist Chris O'Hare. Each sculpture, depicting mermaids and abstract coral reefs, is 8 feet tall and weighs 2 tons. Some carry poetry, and one was intended as a diver selfie-station. Certain pieces were sprayed with calcium carbonate, creating a good base for corals and marine life.

Atlantic Ocean, about a mile southeast of the Lake Worth Inlet

Big Sea Captain at the Wheel, Riviera Beach (RA)

The 14-foot, 2,500-pound white statue of a grizzled skipper was created in 1978 for Mariner Bank in Lake Park. The bank later closed, and the statue was moved in 1983 to Phil Foster Park . 

900 Blue Heron Blvd., Riviera Beach; discover.pbcgov.org

Manatee Lagoon, West Palm Beach (RA)

In 2016, Florida Power & Light Co. created the manatee refuge where the threatened animals gather during cooler weather in the warm-water outflows of its gas-powered plant along the Intracoastal Waterway.  

6000 N. Flagler Dr., West Palm Beach; visitmanateelagoon.com

Shark Attack, Palm Beach Gardens (RA)

Davie-based Nova Southeastern University's northern satellite campus features an 18-foot mako shark — the school's mascot — breaking out through pavers. Its head rears up more than 4 feet above the ground; but don't worry, it's harmless, a 2012 bronze-and-stone creation of wildlife sculptor Kent Ullberg.

11501 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens

World Trade Center steel beam, Palm Beach Gardens (RA)

A 12-ton, 36-foot piece of history, the heat-warped steel beam number C-89 from between the 12 th and 15 th floors at the Trade Center's south tower was installed in 2010 outside Palm Beach Gardens Fire Station 3 on Northlake Boulevard. It’s flanked by eight, 8-foot glass panels, with the names of the some-3,000 victims etched in half-inch letters. 

5161 Northlake Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens

Lion Country Safari, Loxahatchee (RA)

Back in 1967, when this part of the county was the hinterlands, entrepreneurs built a wild kingdom where visitors were confined to their cars and animals ran wild. Now celebrating more than a half century , the 320-acre attraction offers the drive-through safari and a 55-acre adventure park. The park is a regular on USA TODAY's annual 10 Best Safari Parks in the U.S. and also earned a nod in 2023 from U.S. News & World Report.

2003 Lion Country Safari Road, Loxahatchee; lioncountrysafari.com .

Unit 11, Everglades, west of West Palm Beach (AO)

In the 1970s, developers eyed some 1,770 acres off the Beeline Highway in northwestern Palm Beach County. More than 900 individuals bought lots, and more than 53 miles of roads, ditches and canals were dug before the developers decided they were no match for the poor drainage. The county acquired the “Unit 11” property over a decade and worked to restore the original wetlands. It's now part of Hungryland Slough Natural Area .  

12385 Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, West Palm Beach; discover.pbcgov.org/erm/NaturalAreas/Hungryland-Slough

Panther Ridge Conservation Center, Loxahatchee (RA)

The center, along Okeechobee Boulevard, is home to some two dozen wild cats representing more than nine feline species from around the world. It offers educational tours and also takes part in breeding programs aimed at preserving genetic pools of  endangered species.  

 2143 D Road, Loxahatchee; pantherridge.org

Eliot Kleinberg retired in late 2020 after 33-1/2 years as a staff writer at the Palm Beach Post. He authored the longtime history columns Post Time and Florida Time. His nine books include "Historical Traveler’s Guide to Florida" and "Weird Florida I" and "Weird Florida II."

I've visited 93 countries, 57 of them with kids. These 5 underrated spots are great places to enjoy with your family.

• Karen Edwards has traveled to 93 countries, and 57 of them have been with her young children.
• Edwards said that her family has had more fun exploring underrated spots than the popular ones.
• Her favorites include Tanzania for its safari tours and Abu Dhabi for its vibrant festival scene.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Karen Edwards , who blogs about her family's travels around the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

Since 2000, I've visited 93 countries and 57 of them have been with my four children who are all under the age of 10.

I am a nurse by background, but I have been blogging about traveling with my husband and kids since 2014. I cover a lot of off-the-beaten-track destinations and write itineraries for places I've been to, explaining how they work for families with children.

Many popular family destinations tend to be overcrowded. They're usually the ones that get a lot of media exposure or are shown in viral videos on social media. In America, it'd be places like Disneyland in California or Disney World in Florida, while for Europeans, it might be some of the Spanish resort areas.

Although my family and I have visited these places, we have always come away disappointed. They often lack educational experiences, feeling like pointless affairs.

I think traveling to underrated spots makes trips feel more exclusive and you can learn more about the cultures of the countries you visit — it also keeps you away from tourist traps.

We went on a safari tour in Tanzania

Our family visited Tanzania in 2019 in collaboration with a tourism brand. We were there for 12 days.

Our flights to the country were kind of expensive; we paid about $9,000 for our then-family of four, including a stop in Zanzibar at the end of the trip for a few days. However, overall, the entire trip didn't end up costing us that much.

We had some really unique experiences in Tanzania. We went to Mto Wa Mbu village , which is beneath a banana plantation, and we went on a safari tour in its Lake Manyara National Park .

Interestingly, Tanzania is one of the few places in the world where lions are known to climb trees. I remember seeing them sit in tall trees; it was quite unusual, but my kids really enjoyed how close they were to the animals.

Throughout our trip, we actually felt like we were experiencing life in Tanzania. Our campsite was on a river's edge in the depths of nature. It was nice not to feel surrounded by tourists.

My kids fell in love with Abu Dhabi's culture

Many people mistakenly believe that Dubai is a country, but in reality, it's a city in the United Arab Emirates, with Abu Dhabi being its capital.

My family and I moved to Abu Dhabi in 2021 and lived there for 18 months. The city does have a lot of similarities to glitzy and glam Dubai , but you get a more down-to-earth experience.

There are amazing festivals in Abu Dhabi where they display their culture in different formats, whether that be through local food or crafts. It does feel authentic because it's usually mainly locals participating and organizing them.

The city is also 1.5 hours away from Al Ain, which sits at the foot of  Jebel Hafeet , one of the tallest mountains in the region. Along the way up, you'll find many ancient artifacts, such as beehive huts, which have been there for thousands of years. At the top, you can watch incredible sunsets.

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The city also has the Al Ain Oasis , which uses an ancient irrigation system. It has these beautiful paved pathways that look like cobbled streets.

My kids loved Abu Dhabi and are constantly asking me to go back — they really liked all the cultural celebrations.

We love Sri Lanka so much, we're building a villa there

In 2022, my family and I moved to Sri Lanka from Abu Dhabi. We thought we'd have more family time here, and it was going to be an affordable place to live.

We're building a family-friendly villa here that should be completed by August. The area where we are building has a lot of nice cafes, bars, and restaurants nearby.

Overall, Sri Lanka is an amazing country that has so many diverse experiences. There are tea plantations, mountains, and beaches. As for wildlife, their national parks have loads of elephants and leopards.

On one occasion, we went on a safari boat tour to an isolated national park where we watched elephants swim across a lake and onto a tiny island. It was amazing.

The beaches in Sri Lanka are pristine. They have beautiful scenery with swaying coconut palm trees, clear water, and perfect waves. Our favorite is Kabalana Beach .

Because we're always on the beach, my children have learned how to surf. I think it's the most fun thing that we do on the weekends as a family.

The ski resorts and spas are amazing in Andorra

We visited Andorra in 2018 for about six days. It's a tiny country nestled in the Pyrenees between Spain. It's a two-hour drive from Barcelona and three hours from Toulouse, France.

The city has a unique fusion of cultures, though I think Catalonian is the strongest influence. During our trip, my family and I toured many ancient churches.

We also went to some amazing spas and resorts in Andorra. The hotel and ski system there is really family-friendly.

During our visit to the Grandvalira ski resort , my daughter learned how to ski and my husband got to snowboard — the resort has a kindergarten at the foot of its mountain, where kids can play or ski.

Andorra also has amazing spa facilities that are suitable for families and are sectioned off for different age groups.

Our trip was in collaboration with Andorra's tourism board, but I feel like it wasn't overly expensive in comparison to some other places around the world.

I was treated like family in Macedonia

Macedonia is a Balkan country just north of Greece. I haven't been there with children, but I wouldn't have any issues taking my kids there.

It has many beautiful small villages and it's great for skiing too.

The country is also home to one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe named Lake Orchid, which borders Albania. There's this beautiful, small village on the lake that has charming restaurant and a lovely atmosphere for relaxing and enjoying good food.

I visited the country in 2008, and then again in 2012 with my then-boyfriend and now-husband.

The first time I visited, I went with two girlfriends, and we were backpackers. We arrived in the middle of the night by bus and had no idea what we were doing. The bus driver just made a call, and a stranger came and picked us up in his car — I thought I was going to die.

The opposite happened. He took us back to his home with his family, and we stayed there with them for a few days. We ended up extending the trip because he and his family were so amazing.

They didn't speak a word of English, and we couldn't speak a word of their language either. We'd just gesture at each other, and they'd give us food and red wine.

I just totally fell in love with them and their country.

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Experience a one-hour airboat tour, where you can observe rich wildlife and explore 100,000 acres of wetlands. Additionally, enjoy access to our Gator Park, a digital souvenir download of your family holding Fluffy, one of our alligators, a delicious basket lunch from the Chomp House Grill and a bag of gator feed to feed our monster gators!

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Start with an interactive experience feeding Wild Florida's tallest residents, Walter and Leroy. Afterward, you'll experience a 60-75 minute Drive-thru Safari tour, followed by a visit to our Gator Park to meet our ambassador alligator, Fluffy, and feed the alligators in our Gator Pond before concluding your journey with lunch and a signature slushy at our Chomp House Grill.

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Environment | Cheese! Bears, panthers and more trigger candid…

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Environment | Cheese! Bears, panthers and more trigger candid selfies in Florida’s woods. You can help ID them.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has dozens and dozens of trail cameras set up around South Florida’s wilderness areas in order to collect wildlife intel. Until recently, only state biologists had access to the candid photos, but now you, too, can spy on the critters.

A new program called Everglades Wildlife Watch lets you sift through thousands of photos to identify what types of animals are meandering in front of the trail cams. Bears, Florida panthers, bobcats, sandhill cranes, deer, owls, hawks, feral hogs — they’re all on display in their private moments when they don’t know anyone’s watching.

The current set of 12,000 photos come from trail cams in the Everglades and Francis S. Taylor just west of Broward and Palm Beach counties, and from the DuPuis Wildlife Environmental Area, west of Jupiter.

The FWC said it’ll be uploading another 25,000 photos next week from wildlife management areas such as Rotenberger, J.W. Corbett, Holey Land and Big Cypress.

To participate, to go the Everglades Wildlife Watch website, which is hosted on the Zooniverse, create a free account and start identifying the wildlife.

On the right side of the image there’s a handy field guide with other FWC photos of the mostly likely species.

When looking at the pics you can zoom or swap to a negative image, making dark appear light, to find hard-to-spot animals.

Sometimes there’s nothing in the photo, but other times you’ll hit the jackpot — a mama raccoon and a baby tiptoeing through a swamp.

Identifying the animals is a crowdsourcing process, and users can comment on each photo.

Once you’ve identified an animal you can share comments on what you think it is, or what it’s up to.

If you get tired of identifying animals, you can head to the Collect page , where FWC biologists have already ID’d animals and compiled images in species-specific collections.

The “ Join In ” button takes you to a page with popular tags — another way to look at collections of a specific species. You can also create a favorites list.

The FWC said it will eventually have a data dashboard where you’ll be able to see what species you’ve classified and which wildlife management area it lives in. It said by teaming up with the public to categorize their thousands of photos, it will be able to more quickly create reliable data about South Florida’s wildlife populations.

In addition to classifying trail-cam photos, the FWC said it also is looking for volunteers in the South region to help them deploy cameras in wilderness areas, and maintain them. Anyone interested can email [email protected] and put “Everglades Wildlife Watch” in the subject line.

“With your help, we will be able to sort through more photos than we ever could alone and gain a better understanding of how animals are using our WMAs,” said the FWC in a release.

Below, a few of the shots we really enjoyed.

Flying squirrel

A bobcat chasing deer in DuPuis wildlife area

A little blue heron and a great egret stalk the same pond

Florida panther

Red-shouldered hawk

Sandhill crane

Bobcat pondering a clearing

Bill Kearney covers the environment, the outdoors and tropical weather. He can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow him on Instagram  @billkearney  or on X  @billkearney6 .

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