Discover the Beauty of Nature at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

You probably think you have to hop on a plane and travel across the globe to see exotic animals. Maybe you find yourself planning on taking a long drive to get just a whiff of fresh air. You may think it’s impossible that both of these things can be found right in urban Jacksonville, but you would be wrong. All these experiences could be yours if you stop by the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens off Route 17.

Here Is What the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Has to Offer

Exotic Animals

From the grasslands to the Sahara, the Jacksonville Zoo has it. Come on down and see the African Lion. This is a roughly six-foot long cat that weighs anywhere from 330 to 550 lbs. But, if you want to go bigger for an experience you’ll be sure to remember, you’ll have to travel further down the zoo’s “Africa Loop.” That’s where you’ll find the African Elephant. This massive pachyderm can weigh up to 13,000 lbs.

Have an Avian Adventure

Bring the kids to see the bird known for bringing kids: the Abdim’s Stork. This black beauty with lovely blue eyeshadow can be found in the zoo’s River Valley Aviary. Another fine bird to see is the pearly white African Spoonbill, a red-faced bird that can be found across Africa and Madagascar. Also, be sure to check out the American Flamingo. Did you know their bright pink color comes from their diet?

Eye-Popping Garden Atmosphere

Once you have taken in the animal life, be sure to stop and smell the flowers at one of the many gardens on-premises. Most of the gardens are situated along the zoo’s “River of Color,” where the first display is the Savannah Blooms, a lovely sea of purple complete with African water lilies and other water edge plants. Be sure to also check out a neotropical rainforest at the Range of the Jaguar and the Asian Bamboo Garden.

Benefits for Members

Are you tired of seeing all the pack animals and feeling left out? Well, now you can join the herd and enjoy all the benefits that the zoo offers. A zoo membership helps take care of the animal’s food and medical needs. In addition to that, you will enjoy access to the zoo’s 4D theater with unlimited train and carousel rides. Plus, members enjoy access to animal feedings. That could be you feeding a stingray, giraffe, or lorikeet.

Learning Opportunities

The zoo has plenty to offer children beyond the sights and the feedings. Kids have numerous opportunities to learn about the zoo’s many conservation efforts. Who knows: maybe they will even be inspired at one of the zoo’s career awareness days.

If you feel inspired by the speed and power that some of these animals possess, then you will need to make another stop. The good news is you will not have to go far for that, either. If you need a powerful new ride, be sure to head on down to Tony Bush BMW and save some cash on a good deal.

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