Walk With Kangaroos, Ride A Safari Train, And Hand-Feed Giraffes At This Interactive Zoo In Gulf Breeze

Gulf Breeze Zoo is smaller than Florida’s more famous wildlife attractions. But what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in unique experiences and up-close animal encounters.

Located just east of Pensacola in the Florida Panhandle, this 50-acre zoological park offers visitors a chance to get remarkably close to over 800 animals!

Whether you’re feeding giraffes face-to-face, having budgies land on your hand, or taking a safari train through open habitats, Gulf Breeze Zoo is a day trip you’ll remember.

The Zoo Experience

Giraffe Feeding: This is undoubtedly one of the zoo’s standout experiences.

For just $5, you can purchase kale to feed these gentle giants at eye level from a dedicated platform. And it’s a hoot!

The giraffes get remarkably close, creating magical moments and priceless photo opportunities that you’ll cherish forever.

Budgie Feeding Adventure: Step inside the walk-through aviary where colorful budgies (parakeets) might land right on your hand to nibble seed sticks.

The joy of having these small, vibrant birds perch on you makes for an unforgettable interaction.

Petting Zoo Paradise: The interactive farm area allows children and adults alike to feed and pet goats, sheep, and other domestic animals.

For $12 you can purchase a food bundle that provides ample feed for multiple animals. You’ll likely have enough left over for second rounds with your favorite critters.

This is very fun if you have little kids with you.

Premium Animal Encounters: For those seeking an even more exclusive experience, the zoo offers special animal encounters for an additional fee.

The sloth encounter gives you the chance to pet and feed these famously slow-moving creatures in a more private setting.

Hidden Feeding Opportunities: Throughout the zoo, you’ll discover various opportunities to interact with the animals.

Look for coin-operated feeding stations for tortoises, camels, and bulls.

Just remember not to use up all your animal food at the beginning! You’ll need the rest for the many other feeding stations throughout the park!

The Safari Train

Included Safari Adventure: Unlike many zoos where train rides feel like an afterthought, Gulf Breeze Zoo’s train is excellent.

Running every hour on the hour, this isn’t just a quick kid’s ride, but a genuine safari-style adventure.

Wildlife Viewing: The train takes you through expansive Savannah-like habitats where rhinos, orangutans, gorillas, gazelles, and other animals roam freely. This provides views of animals you might not see during your walking tour.

Seriously it’s like something you’ll almost never find anywhere else.

Educational Journey: Rather than rushing through, the train makes stops along the way while guides discuss different areas and animals.

This educational component enhances the experience and gives tired feet a rest after walking the main zoo grounds.

Accessibility Considerations: While the train can accommodate wheelchairs with staff assistance, space is limited, and taller individuals might feel a bit cramped. Just something to keep in mind if you planned on riding the train but might have trouble moving around.

Beyond The Animals

Family-Friendly Facilities: The zoo features two separate playgrounds. One designed for toddlers, and another for older children.

These are thoughtfully provided to help kids burn off extra energy between animal exhibits.

Spotless Grounds: It’s worth mentioning how incredibly clean the facilities are, from the lobby to the bathrooms.

Spacious And Natural Habitats: The zoo showcases spacious and well-designed enclosures to ensure that their animal residents are happy and comfortable. I find them to be humane and genuinely designed for giving these animals a decent life, all things considered.

Shaded Walking Paths: The walking paths offer shade throughout the day to help you avoid the heat.

Good To Know Before You Go

Admission Pricing: Prices here do skew a bit higher than other zoos, falling a bit shy of $30 per adult ticket. And when you factor in buying food to feed the animals it can add up.

But there’s also a lot more to do here than in many other zoos.

The numerous interactive opportunities, included train ride, and overall experience justify the price.

Food Options: The onsite cafe offers a variety of meal options, including adult beverages for those 21+, but it’s on the pricey side. Consider eating before or after your visit to save money.

Outside Food & Drink Policy: Be aware that the zoo doesn’t allow outside water bottles. You’ll need to purchase drinks inside the park with vending machine options everywhere, or you can purchase food & drinks at any of the restaurants inside.

Visit Duration: Most families spend 3-4 hours exploring the zoo, so it works great for at least a half-day activity. But you could easily spend all morning and most of the afternoon here if you wanted to.

It’s compact enough to see everything with enough variety to keep everyone engaged for several hours.

Gift Shop: The zoo also boasts a fun gift shop with a wide selection of souvenirs.

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Gulf Breeze Zoo
📍 5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
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