Family Activities:

Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Attraction

Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens

3755 NW Hwy 17-92, Sanford, 32747, FL

Take a break from all the Disney magic and head down to the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens for the day. Opened in 1975 with just 38 animals, the Zoo now boasts more than 400 animals, and even a Herpetarium which houses one of the largest collections of venomous snakes and non-venomous reptiles in the Southeast — if you’re into that. There are multiple programs available just for kids, like school break camps and summer camps, which are offered for those ages 6 to 12, and even preschool programs for children ages 2 to 5. The Botanical Garden is home to three gardens, including a Spiny Garden, a Butterfly Garden and a Wildflower Garden.

The Zoo and Gardens are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Admission is $14.95 for adults, $12.95 for seniors 60 and up, $10.95 for children 3 to 12, and free for children 2 and under.