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St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park zoo in St. Augustine, FL
Photo: Elijah Sizemore
View of St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park in St. Augustine, FL
Photo: Daniela Cohen-Dawson
View of St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park in St. Augustine, FL
Photo: Michelle Bell49.2

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

4.7(11,388 reviews)$$Zoo
🕑 3-4 hours (add 1-2 hours if doing the zip line course)👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger children will enjoy watching the feeding shows and colorful birds, while kids 7+ can tackle the zip line adventure course. Toddlers may be overwhelmed by the alligator exhibits but will love the bird rookery.

About

The St. Augustine Alligator Farm has been thrilling families since 1893 with its impressive collection of every crocodilian species on Earth! Beyond the gators, kids will be amazed by exotic birds, giant tortoises, and the opportunity to experience zip lines soaring over actual alligator habitats,making this one of the most unique zoo experiences in Florida.

Highlights

  • Alligator and crocodile feeding shows with expert handlers
  • Zip lining over live alligator enclosures on the Crocodile Crossing adventure course
  • Maximo, a massive 15-foot Australian saltwater crocodile
  • The bird rookery with hundreds of nesting herons, egrets, and roseate spoonbills
  • Komodo dragons and rare albino alligators

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive right at opening (9 AM) to beat the heat and crowds,alligators are most active in the morning and you'll get better views during feeding times
  2. 2.Don't miss the scheduled feeding shows and presentations throughout the day; check the daily schedule at the entrance to plan your visit around them
  3. 3.Bring sunscreen and water bottles,much of the park is outdoors with limited shade, especially during summer months
  4. 4.Book the zip line adventure in advance online if your kids are interested (minimum height requirements apply), as spots fill up quickly
  5. 5.The bird rookery section in spring (March-May) is spectacular when thousands of nesting birds are active,arrive with patience as kids can watch for hours

Best Time to Visit

Visit on weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday, to avoid weekend crowds. Early spring (March-May) is ideal when temperatures are comfortable and the bird rookery is most active with nesting season. Avoid midday summer visits due to extreme heat.

What to Know

Admission is around $30 for adults and $20 for children (3-11), with separate pricing for zip line adventures. The park has on-site dining options including a café, and stroller-friendly paved pathways throughout most exhibits.

Seasonal Notes

Spring (March-May) offers the best weather and peak bird rookery activity during nesting season. Summer can be extremely hot and humid,plan for early morning visits. The park is open year-round with consistent hours, but check their website for any holiday schedule changes.

Nearby Eats

Salt Life Food Shack (casual seafood with kids' menu and outdoor seating, 5 minutes away) or The Floridian (Southern comfort food in a family-friendly atmosphere, 10 minutes in downtown St. Augustine)

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