Zoo Tampa, Florida - Things to see and do

Things to see and do in Zoo Tampa, Florida

Visited August 2025

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Zoo Tampa: Wild Adventures in the Heart of the City

Tucked inside Tampa’s historic Lowry Park neighborhood, Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park isn’t just a zoo—it’s one of Florida’s top family attractions and a leader in wildlife conservation. Blending education, entertainment, and up-close animal encounters, Zoo Tampa offers an immersive experience that’s as fun as it is meaningful. Whether you're a local or a visitor, a day at this zoo is anything but ordinary.

We always enjoy visiting Lowrey Park which has been recently renamed Zoo Tampa. There have been lots of improvements made to the zoo over the years. The fairy book characters that were in the park in the 1960s can now be seen at the Ulele Restaurant on Tampa's Riverwalk.

Zoo Tampa is home to more than 1,300 animals spread across well-designed, themed habitats that reflect ecosystems from around the world. But this isn’t a place where animals are just on display. The zoo’s layout encourages interaction, exploration, and connection—something especially magical for kids, but just as rewarding for adults.

The park is divided into five main areas: Asia, Africa, Australia, Florida, and Primates. Each one offers its own unique vibe and animal lineup. In Asia, you’ll find majestic Malayan tigers, rhinoceroses, and komodo dragons. Africa features favorites like giraffes, elephants, and the ever-popular meerkats, while the Australia section lets you get up close with koalas, wallabies, and even a shoebill stork that always grabs attention with its prehistoric look.

One of the standout sections is the Florida Wilds, where Zoo Tampa showcases animals native to the Sunshine State—including Florida panthers, black bears, manatees, and alligators. This area really drives home the zoo’s mission: conservation, especially for species threatened in Florida’s rapidly changing environment.

Zoo Tampa is one of just a few facilities in the U.S. licensed to care for and rehabilitate injured manatees. Its David A. Straz Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center has rescued and treated hundreds of manatees over the years, making it a vital part of the state's wildlife rescue network. Guests can watch these gentle giants recovering in the facility’s tanks, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at real conservation work in action.

But Zoo Tampa isn't just about learning—it’s packed with family fun, too. The Roaring Springs water ride is a refreshing break on hot days, offering a log-flume style adventure through a cypress swamp setting. There’s also a splash pad, a carousel, a children’s zoo where kids can feed goats, and a jungle-themed climbing area for burning off energy.

For those looking for something extra, Zoo Tampa offers animal encounters where you can meet penguins, rhinos, or even touch a stingray. These experiences make the day even more unforgettable—and support the zoo’s broader mission to foster empathy for animals through connection.

Dining options range from quick snacks to full meals, and the park is stroller-friendly, clean, and easy to navigate. Seasonal events like ZooBoo in the fall, Christmas in the Wild during the holidays and Dinos Unearthed keep things fresh and exciting year-round.

At its core, Zoo Tampa combines adventure with purpose. It’s a place to laugh, learn, and look wild animals in the eye—not from a distance, but with respect and curiosity. For anyone looking to experience the wild side of Tampa in a safe, family-friendly setting, Zoo Tampa more than delivers. It’s not just a day out—it’s a reminder of why protecting our planet’s animals matters.

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