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Explore Orlando’s Premier Zoos, Wildlife Ranches, and Gardens: A Natural Adventure

Enjoy close encounters with plants and animals from around the globe at Orlando’s top zoos, wildlife ranches, and gardens—including the historic Harry P. Leu Gardens.

Craving the great outdoors? Orlando offers a curated selection of zoos, wildlife ranches, and botanical gardens that bring nature to your doorstep. Whether you’re strolling through expansive green spaces or engaging in hands‑on animal encounters, each venue is committed to guest safety with enhanced health protocols and meticulous sanitization.

Explore on your own with self‑guided walking tours such as The Oasis Exhibits, Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, and Discovery Island Trails. For an even more intimate experience, visit Conservation Station or the Affection Section—our friendly petting zoo.

Gatorland

More than a theme park, Gatorland is Orlando’s flagship reptile destination. Meet the famed alligators, colorful birds, and vibrant flora while enjoying signature attractions like the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and the Stompin’ Gator Off‑Road Adventure.

Explore Orlando’s Premier Zoos, Wildlife Ranches, and Gardens: A Natural Adventure

Safari Wilderness Ranch

Located just 40 minutes southwest of Walt Disney World in Lakeland, Safari Wilderness Ranch offers a range of safari experiences—including vehicle, kayak, and camelback tours. Private safaris are available, with optional animal‑feeding activities featuring lemurs, budgies, and guinea pigs. Daily tours run at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. by reservation only.

Explore Orlando’s Premier Zoos, Wildlife Ranches, and Gardens: A Natural Adventure

Giraffe Ranch

Beyond giraffes, this Dade City attraction offers intimate safaris on vehicle, camelback, and even Segway. Hand‑feed giraffes and other exotic species while learning about conservation initiatives. Reservations are required.

Orlando‑Area Gardens

Explore Orlando’s Premier Zoos, Wildlife Ranches, and Gardens: A Natural Adventure

Harry P. Leu Gardens

Spanning 50 acres of meticulously curated gardens, Leu Gardens features over 40 plant collections from around the world. A short 15‑minute drive from downtown Orlando, the site also hosts the historic Leu House Museum—an 1880s‑era estate listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Explore Orlando’s Premier Zoos, Wildlife Ranches, and Gardens: A Natural Adventure

Bok Tower Gardens

One of Florida’s oldest attractions, Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales has welcomed visitors since 1929. The 250‑acre grounds boast azaleas, camellias, magnolias, 126 bird species, the threatened gopher tortoise, and the endangered eastern indigo snake. Its iconic 205‑foot Singing Tower features a 60‑bell carillon that plays daily.

Mead Botanical Garden

This 48‑acre sanctuary offers free admission and showcases diverse ecosystems, a sprawling butterfly garden, and boardwalk/bike trails. Located in Winter Park, it opens daily from 7:30 a.m. to dusk.

Kraft Azalea Garden

Also in Winter Park, the 5‑acre Kraft Azalea Garden sits on Lake Maitland’s shore. Open year‑round from 8 a.m. to dusk, the garden is free to the public and features shaded cypress groves and the neoclassical Exedra—ideal for weddings and special events.

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