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ParkFlorida, US

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Sarasota Jungle Gardens offers an "Old Florida" charm with unique interactive animal encounters and lush botanical scenery.

About

Sarasota Jungle Gardens offers an "Old Florida" charm with unique interactive animal encounters and lush botanical scenery. Established in 1939, this historic 10-acre zoological garden and wildlife sanctuary has delighted visitors for decades, providing a memorable blend of nature and wildlife experiences. It stands out as a unique destination where guests can immerse themselves in a vibrant tropical environment while getting up close with a diverse array of animals.

The gardens are home to over 200 native and exotic animals and more than 150 different species of plants, creating a stunning backdrop for exploration. A major highlight is the flock of free-roaming flamingos, which visitors can hand-feed for an unforgettable interactive experience. Beyond the flamingos, guests can encounter colorful macaws and parrots, which perform in daily shows and can be posed with for photos, alongside various primates like Black and White Ruffed Lemurs, and a wide collection of reptiles, including alligators, crocodiles, giant Aldabra tortoises, and numerous snakes and lizards. Other notable exhibits include a popular petting zoo, birds of prey, a serene butterfly garden, and beautifully manicured succulent and bamboo gardens that showcase diverse flora.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens provides a captivating escape where visitors can wander through 1.2 miles of winding, shaded trails amidst a stunning botanical collection featuring towering palm trees, vibrant tropical flowers, and impressive species like Florida's largest Norfolk Island pine. The park's emphasis on interactive experiences, engaging animal shows, and photo opportunities ensures a fun-filled and educational day for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a glimpse into Florida's natural beauty and history. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens originated in the early 1930s when local newspaperman David Breed Lindsay and his neighbor, nursery owner Pearson Conrad, began developing their adjacent properties into a botanical garden from what was once a swampy banana grove. The evolving gardens quickly attracted public attention, leading to an initial admission fee being charged by 1936. Officially opening to the public on New Year's Eve in 1939, the attraction became known as Sarasota Jungle Gardens. The park has been family-owned and operated for much of its history, remaining under the management of the Allyn family since 1971, ensuring its preservation as one of Florida's oldest continuously operating attractions.

What to do here

Engage in animal encounters, watch daily shows, stroll through the picturesque gardens, feed the koi fish, and let children enjoy the playground. Don't miss photo opportunities with parrots or holding a baby alligator.

Seasonal info

During Florida's summer months (July-September), expect heat, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms. The park is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Accessibility

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is handicap accessible with 1.2 miles of paved brick trails suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Manual wheelchairs and child strollers are available for rent in the Gift Shop. Approximately 60% of the park is shaded, and benches are placed throughout the trails for resting. Service animals are permitted.

Don't miss

1

Flamingo Lagoon

Hand-feed the free-roaming flamingos, a signature interactive experience.

2

Animal Shows

Catch the daily Jungle Bird Show, Wildlife Wonder Show, and Reptile Show, featuring educational and entertaining performances by parrots, birds of prey, and various reptiles.

3

Petting Zoo

Interact with friendly goats and other farm animals.

4

Reptile Exhibits

See alligators, crocodiles, giant tortoises, and a variety of snakes and lizards, with opportunities to hold some reptiles.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Arrive Early

** Get there close to opening time (10 AM) to secure parking, experience quieter trails, and ensure good seating for the popular animal shows.

Purchase Flamingo Food

Enhance your visit by buying flamingo food at the entrance or Flamingo Café for a memorable hand-feeding experience with the free-roaming birds.

Check Show Schedules

Upon arrival, grab a schedule for the daily bird and reptile shows and plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to get a good spot.

Wear Comfortable Footwear

With 1.2 miles of trails, comfortable walking shoes are a must to fully enjoy exploring the botanical gardens and animal exhibits.

Stay Hydrated and Shaded

Florida weather can be warm. While 60% of the park is shaded, bring sunscreen and consider visiting during cooler months or taking breaks at the Flamingo Café.

Bring Your Camera

The vibrant flamingos, exotic birds, lush landscapes, and interactive opportunities offer incredible photo and video opportunities.

Frequently asked questions

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is famous for its interactive experiences, particularly hand-feeding free-roaming flamingos, which is a highlight for many visitors. Other key attractions include daily animal shows featuring parrots, birds of prey, and reptiles, a petting zoo, and lush botanical gardens with winding, shaded trails.
Yes, Sarasota Jungle Gardens is designed to be accessible. The park features 1.2 miles of paved brick trails with gentle slopes, making them suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Manual wheelchairs and child strollers can be rented at the Gift Shop for convenience.
Absolutely! Sarasota Jungle Gardens is renowned for its up-close animal interactions. Visitors can hand-feed the free-roaming flamingos, pose for photos with parrots, hold certain reptiles like baby alligators and snakes, and interact with animals in the petting zoo.

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