ZooTampa at Lowry Park is one of Florida’s premier zoological parks, home to hundreds of animals from around the world in beautifully designed natural habitats. Known for its nationally recognized manatee rehabilitation program, the zoo also offers animal encounters, interactive exhibits, exciting rides, and conservation programs for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re watching rescued manatees, observing majestic tigers, feeding giraffes, or introducing young children to wildlife for the first time, ZooTampa provides one of the Tampa Bay area’s best family attractions.
ZooTampa is internationally recognized for its wildlife conservation efforts and is one of the few zoos in the United States that rehabilitates injured and orphaned Florida manatees.
Quick Facts
- Best For: Families, animal lovers, children, and wildlife enthusiasts
- Time Needed: 3 to 5 hours
- Known For: Florida wildlife, rescued manatees, interactive exhibits, and conservation
- Accreditation: AZA Accredited Zoo
- Animals: Hundreds of species from around the world
- Location: North Tampa
Top Animal Experiences
- David A. Straz Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center – See rescued Florida manatees receiving expert care before returning to the wild.
- Expedition Africa – Discover giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and other African wildlife.
- Asian Gardens – Visit habitats featuring tigers, orangutans, and other fascinating species.
- Wallaroo Station – Enjoy a family-friendly area with Australian animals, rides, and interactive experiences.
- Roaring Springs – Ride through the zoo on this family-friendly water adventure attraction.
- Animal Encounters – Participate in unforgettable up-close wildlife experiences available throughout the year.
Why Visit ZooTampa?
ZooTampa combines world-class animal habitats, conservation programs, educational experiences, and family-friendly attractions into one enjoyable destination. The combination of animal encounters, rides, conservation, and interactive exhibits makes ZooTampa much more than a traditional zoo.
Whether you’re visiting with children or simply enjoy wildlife, ZooTampa offers memorable experiences that appeal to visitors of every age.
Perfect For
- Families
- Animal lovers
- Young children
- Multi-generational families
- Couples
- First-time Tampa visitors
Best Time to Visit
Arrive when the zoo opens to enjoy cooler temperatures, more active animals, and shorter lines for popular animal encounters. Weekday mornings generally offer the lightest crowds outside of school holidays.
Visitor Tip
Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a refillable water bottle, and check the daily schedule for keeper talks, animal presentations, and feeding experiences before exploring the zoo.
Don’t Miss
- The David A. Straz Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center
- Giraffe feeding experiences
- Tiger and orangutan habitats
- Roaring Springs
- Animal presentations and keeper talks
Good to Know
- Animal encounters may require an additional fee or advance reservation.
- Some rides and outdoor experiences may temporarily close during severe weather.
- The zoo offers dining, snacks, and gift shops throughout the park.
- Most walkways are wheelchair and stroller accessible.
- Conservation and education are central to the zoo’s mission.
Hours
Hours vary throughout the year and during holidays. Check the zoo’s official schedule before visiting.
Pricing
General admission varies by age, while select animal encounters and special experiences may require an additional fee. Check the zoo’s current pricing before visiting.
Parking
On-site parking is available directly outside the zoo entrance. Purchasing tickets online before your visit can help speed up admission.
Nearby Things to Do
ZooTampa is located near Museum of Science & Innovation (MOSI), Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure Island, along with numerous restaurants, parks, and family-friendly attractions throughout North Tampa.
ZooTampa Images
