We are always on the lookout for fun adventures in Florida and ZooTampa at Lowry Park has always been on our to-do list!
When we heard about the new event Bugtopia, where you shrink down and learn about 13 different bug species we were intrigued and had to visit!
When I look at visiting any zoos or aquariums,
I always do research before seeing if they are AZA accredited. This means they meet the highest standards in animal care and welfare and provide a fun, safe, and educational family experience (taken directly from AZA). ZooTampa is proudly AZA accredited, and when visiting I was able to see why.
There are four main exhibits within the zoo; Florida, Asia, Primates, and Africa. Plus two hub areas of Manatee Circle and Carosuel Circle. There is also a kid's section of Wallaroo.
Each section was uniquely themed and the animal enclosures were amazingly designed with those animals in mind. While visiting you will encounter countless types of animals from tiny reptiles to African Elephants! There were animals there that I never even heard of so that was super fun to learn about. Each animal will have an informational sign, here you can learn fun facts, habitat, and where they live. diet and their conservation efforts and status. To me, this is important to help others understand the animal better and understand why they are crucial to our world.
With having kids, the Wallaroo section was a must for us. Not only did they have additional animals, but a restaurant, play area, and kiddie rides. Yes, rides! Best part? They are all included in your park admission!
Plus they have a carousel and water ride (perfect for these hot days), so something for all to enjoy. One attraction we wanted to do but sadly were unable was the Expedition Wild Africa Safari, this is where you board a vehicle to get closer looks at the animals in Africa and learn even more about them. This will be a must next visit for us.
ZooTampa does offer events throughout the year, and we were lucky enough to shrink down to bug size and learn everything about bugs! As someone who fears bugs, I was worried - but I had no fears while seeing the larger-than-life 13 different animatronic bugs. There are also children's activities and researchers
walking around teaching you even more. It was cool to learn about how crucial bugs are within the ecosystem and how they connect with the other animals within the zoo. The best part about this is that it's included in your admission! So be sure to check it out! It is here for a limited time only. Not to mention some of the other awesome events they offer are also included with the admission. You can see the upcoming events here.
One thing I did notice was how much seating and shaded areas there were. Being in the Florida heat is not an easy one so having easy shade and someplace to sit for a few is very beneficial.
There are some indoor AC locations including the Manatee Center, here you'll find the perfect seats to relax in the AC and watch the gentle giants. This is perfect for the kids to cool off, unwind and stay entertained, even us adults. Another thing I want to mention is how every single zoo staff member we interacted with was nothing but kind and helpful. You could tell they loved what they did and loved interacting with guests.
Now onto one of my favorite topics conservation. ZooTampa is very big on conservation here in Florida and worldwide. They are very dedicated to persevering wildlife in the wild. You can learn more here all about their efforts and how you can help out! I appreciate all their conservation and sustainability efforts!
After our visit, I cannot recommend a trip to ZooTampa enough! It's about 1 hour
away from Orlando and is a perfect option for a day away from the theme parks if on vacation or just a day trip for the Florida locals. Currently, tickets are $45.95 for ages 12+ and $ 35.95 for ages 3-11 and they have a special if you buy now, you get the rest of 2023 for free! They also offer memberships that give you exclusive benefits, we are honestly thinking about doing this. Learn all about their admission here! Thank you ZooTampa at Lowry Park for having us and we cannot wait to be back!
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