Photo: Andrew Watson
Photo: Melissa Grant
Photo: Derar (Reviewer)
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
★4.3(10,379 reviews)$$Zoo
🕑 3-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love the petting zoo, splash pad, and smaller animal exhibits, while elementary-aged kids can tackle the zip line adventure course (height/weight restrictions apply). The compact layout makes it manageable even with younger children who tire easily.🧡 Saved by 60+ families
About
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens offers an exciting day out with over 400 animals from around the world, plus bonus attractions that set it apart from typical zoos. Kids can cool off at the splash pad after animal encounters, soar through the treetops on the ZOOm Air Adventure Park zip line course, and explore beautiful botanical gardens,all in one convenient location in Sanford.
Highlights
- ✓Over 400 animals including giraffes, rhinos, cheetahs, and native Florida wildlife
- ✓Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground,a free splash pad perfect for cooling off
- ✓ZOOm Air Adventure Park featuring aerial obstacle courses and zip lines
- ✓Interactive feeding experiences with giraffes and other animals (check daily schedule)
- ✓Barnyard Buddies Children's Zoo with hands-on animal encounters
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit in the morning when animals are most active and before afternoon heat sets in,many animals retreat to shaded areas by midday
- 2.The splash pad is incredibly popular, so bring swimsuits, towels, and a change of clothes for kids to enjoy this bonus feature
- 3.Purchase the ZOOm Air Adventure Park zip line tickets separately and in advance, as spots fill up quickly on weekends
- 4.Pack your own snacks and lunch to save money,there are picnic areas available throughout the zoo
- 5.Don't miss the Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground near the Australian exhibit,it's a hidden gem where kids can cool down between animal viewing
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) right at 9:00 AM opening for the smallest crowds and most active animals. Fall through early spring (October-April) offers the most comfortable weather, as Florida summers can be extremely hot and humid for young children.
What to Know
General admission is reasonably priced with discounts for children under 12 (check website for current rates). Free parking is available on-site. The zoo has a café with kid-friendly options, though prices are typical theme-park style, so many families pack their own food.
Seasonal Notes
The zoo hosts special events throughout the year including Zoobilee (spring fundraiser), Boo at the Zoo (October), and Zoo Lights (November-December holiday event). Summer can be extremely hot, so plan accordingly with plenty of water and sun protection. Some outdoor exhibits may have limited visibility during heavy rain.
Nearby Eats
Head to Hollerbach's Willow Tree Cafe in nearby historic downtown Sanford (10 minutes away) for authentic German food in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating. For quicker bites, the Sanford area along 17-92 has numerous chain restaurants including Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread within 5 minutes of the zoo.
More Activities Near Sanford
Adventure
Seminole Wekiva Trail
Free
The Seminole Wekiva Trail offers families a beautifully paved, flat pathway stretching through Sanford's natural landscapes, making it ideal for introducing kids to outdoor adventures without the challenge of difficult terrain. This multi-use trail winds through shaded forests and scenic areas where families can bike, walk, scooter, or jog together while spotting local wildlife and enjoying Florida's natural beauty in a safe, car-free environment.
Theater
The Ritz Theater/Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center
★4.8$❤️210
Step back in time at this beautifully restored 1923 theater in the heart of downtown Sanford, where families can enjoy Broadway-style productions, children's shows, concerts, and special performances in an intimate, historic setting. With its stunning architecture and excellent acoustics, The Ritz Theater offers kids a magical introduction to live performing arts in a venue that's been entertaining Central Florida families for generations.
Park
Fort Mellon Park
★4.6Free❤️247
Fort Mellon Park is a lakefront gem on Lake Monroe that offers the perfect combination of water play, playground fun, and scenic beauty. With its popular splash pad for cooling off, well-maintained playground equipment, and peaceful riverwalk with stunning water views, this park provides hours of entertainment for families while parents can relax and enjoy the picturesque setting.
Restaurant
Hollerbach's German Restaurant
★4.4$$❤️210
Hollerbach's brings a taste of Bavaria to downtown Sanford with hearty German fare that kids and parents will love. The lively beer garden atmosphere features live oompah music and dancing, creating an entertaining dining experience where children can enjoy schnitzel, bratwurst, and familiar favorites from the kids menu while parents savor authentic German cuisine and craft beers.