A Visit to the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Botanical zoo sign
Located approximately 40 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO) or 12 minutes from Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens. The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a perfect half day escape for young and old. Traveling to Orlando with time to spare before taking the children to the theme parks, a stop here would both entertain and educate the children and adults.
This non-for-profit zoo has 350 animals representing 100 species of wildlife from all over the world. Nestled in a protected nature preserve, the Zoo also includes covered walkways, a small train for children, and a kids elevated aerial course. Seminole Aerial Adventures is for children ages 5 and older, up to 5 feet tall and includes rope bridges, suspended disks and zip lines.
Natural sign
Lenny and I enjoyed exploring the zoo with our family. The setting is beautiful and we enjoyed the nature preserve. Look at this pond, doesn’t it remind you of Monet’s waterlilies:
Botanical Gardens
The animals were fascinating on our sunny family excursion. This hornbill was particularly chatty, as I kept asking him to tell me a story and he complied:
Hornbill
The alpaca located in the children’s zoo has a beautiful auburn colored coat. The children’s petting zoo also includes sheep, goats and a llama.
Alpaca in the children’s petting zoo
We enjoyed walking the paths and observing the leopards, Florida panther, rhino, wart hogs and giraffe (traditional zoo animals) as well as animals native to Florida and the tropics.
Children’s zoo entrance
Warthog
There are multiple alligators, crocodiles and snakes at this zoo for the children to observe. Also, there is a splash pad and a playground.
Children’s playground
While we were in a tropical forest, there are definitely sunny spots at the zoo (the splash pad). Don’t forget your sunscreen and lip balm (both Florida essentials)
I found this poison dart frog particularly fascinating. Did you know that the bright colors of these frogs warn predators of their toxicity?
Dart frog
Overall, we had the perfectly sunny day with beautiful weather and a great experience. Be sure to buy your tickets to this attraction online and save $2 per admission.
All the best,
Jennifer
