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Zoo · Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
A roughly 40-hectare zoo in north Jacksonville, opened in 1914, with animals from Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas, botanical gardens, and a giraffe area where you can feed them.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens began in 1914 with a few animals and grew to occupy about 40 hectares in the city’s north, near Trout River. From the 2000s onward, botanical gardens were added among the enclosures, which is why “and Gardens” is part of the name.
Areas are organized by region: the African plain, with giraffes, elephants, and rhinos; the Asian area, with tigers; the primate area, with gorillas and orangutans; and a section dedicated to Australia, with kangaroos. There is also a manatee exhibit and animals native to Florida, such as alligators.
In the giraffe area, a platform allows feeding at certain times. For children there is a small splash park in summer, a little train, and a carousel.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Three to four hours.
Best time
Right at opening, when animals are usually more active, and on cooler autumn and spring days. Check hours before you go.
How to get there
It’s on Zoo Parkway in north Jacksonville, about 15 km from downtown, near I-95. There is on-site parking.
Tip
Start with the African plain and the giraffes, which tend to attract lines later in the day.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
How long does a visit to the Jacksonville Zoo take?
Three to four hours.
Can you feed the giraffes at the Jacksonville Zoo?
Yes, from a platform in the giraffe area at certain times and for an additional fee.
Where is the Jacksonville Zoo located?
In the northern part of the city, near I‑95, about 15 km from downtown.