local animal places to visit

10 places to get up close and personal with America's largest animals

For intriguing animal encounters in the U.S., look beyond traditional zoos. There are animal sanctuaries and rescues; farms; and even big-game parks that allow visitors to touch, interact, snuggle and take photos with unbelievable species. From orphaned tigers, shark viewing from cages, to wolves, you can get so close to animals that you can smell them, starting with manatees in Crystal River, Florida: In the western part of Florida, Crystal River is one of the the only places in the United States to legally swim with manatees . Because the manatees are endangered and sensitive to human interaction, you cannot touch these animals. However, they often come up to humans to interact.

20 Trips Every Animal Lover Should Take

If you're an animal lover to the core, why not seek a vacation that will allow you to discover furry friends in fascinating new places. Animal-centric vacations can involve a lot more than visiting a petting zoo. From a safari in Canada to a cat sanctuary surrounded by Roman ruins, here are 20 trips every animal lover should consider taking in their lifetime.

Bandhavgarh National Park (Madhya Pradesh, India)

Bandhavgarh National Park is a 600-square-mile national park in eastern India that has about 250 different species of birds and 22 different mammals, including barking deer, striped hyenas and sambar, but it's most famously known as having the highest density of tigers in India. In fact, tigers are so easily spotted here that it's said visitors are particularly unlucky if they don't see one. Because summers in India are particularly harsh , it's best to plan your visit between November and March.

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary (Kanab, Utah)

If you're a lover of dogs, cats, rabbits, pigs or horses, you'll be in heaven when you visit the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah . The largest sanctuary for companion animals in the United States, you can take hikes with stops in "neighborhoods" with fun names like Old Dogtown and Cat World. For a more rewarding visit, you can also volunteer to help the animals. If you can't make the trek to Utah, Best Friends also has regional locations in Los Angeles, New York City, Atlanta and Houston. It's always a good decision to adopt a rescue animal — and we all know rescue dogs make the best pets .

Churchill (Manitoba, Canada)

There are some animals that you see at the zoo that seem like completely different beasts when observed in their natural habitat, and polar bears are definitely one of those animals. In October and November of every year, the town of Churchill in Manitoba, Canada, is along the polar bear migration path, so you can literally look out your window and see these majestic creatures ambling by. Stay at the Tundra Lodge , a half-bus, half-hotel that rolls right up to the polar bears. It's best to plan your trip sooner rather than later, though, as you may not be able to see polar bears in their natural habitat for much longer due to climate change .

Elephant Nature Park (Chiang Mai, Thailand)

Since the 1990s, the Elephant Nature Park in the Chiang Mai province of northern Thailand has been a place of refuge for rescued elephants. There are numerous ways to experience this place, from stopping by for a short visit to observe the elephants (as well as the dogs, cats, buffalo, birds and more that live at the sanctuary) to volunteering and caring for the elephants for a week.

Galapagos Islands (Ecuador)

Perhaps one of the most famous animal-centric trips in the world, the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador really are a unique travel experience — you're not likely to see more diverse and fascinating wildlife anywhere else in the world. Here, you can observe Darwin's finches, Galapagos giant tortoises, sea lions, marine iguanas and Galapagos penguins as well as the local flora and ecosystems that helped to inspire Darwin's theory of evolution. If the striking beauty of this place isn't enough for you, consider visiting more of the world's most stunning remote islands .

Great Barrier Reef (Queensland, Australia)

Stretching over 1,250 miles along 900 islands, the Great Barrier Reef is not just one reef, but a group of roughly 3,000 individual reefs. Learn to scuba dive or snorkel to see the bright colors and remarkable activities of roughly 2,000 different kinds of fish, 4,000 mollusk species and 400 different types of coral. Just make sure not to touch anything. Human contact can easily kill the coral and disturb this delicate ecosystem, which is already endangered by rising water temperatures. If that's not quite your speed, you can take an overhead helicopter tour for a bird's eye view. The Great Barrier Reef really needs to be seen to be believed, making it one of the 50 places every traveler should visit before turning 50 .

Kangaroo Sanctuary (Alice Springs, Australia)

Australia offers a lot of unique animal life, but perhaps no creature is more famous Down Under than the kangaroo. To see as many of these hoppy marsupials as possible, head to Alice Springs in the Northern Territory and stop by the Kangaroo Sanctuary. Because 'roos mostly sleep during the day, guided tours start here in the late afternoon. The best way to experience the sanctuary is with a sunset tour, which has not only great views of the kangaroos but also of the beautiful 90-acre property.

Kruger National Park (Northeastern South Africa)

Across the more than 7,500 square miles of South Africa's Kruger National Park, you can see the "Big Five" game animals (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and cape buffalo) as well as impalas, zebra, Greater kudu, giraffes and spotted hyenas. Each season offers different views and animals at Kruger National Park. Visitors in the summer will see newborn animals and lush vegetation, but you'll have an easier time spotting game during the dry winter months.

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (Northern Kenya)

No matter what sort of animal experience you are looking for, you can have it at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Kenya. With nine different lodges and houses, each one more luxurious than the last, you'll sleep in style at night while spotting some truly extraordinary animals during the day, including rhinos, Grevy's zebra, elephants, lions and possibly wild exotic dogs. Experiencing a trip like this is something everyone — not just animal lovers — should do in their lifetime .

Parc Safari (Quebec, Canada)

You don't have to go all the way to Africa to go on a world-class safari. Just head to Parc Safari in Quebec, Canada. There are family-friendly experiences all throughout the park, including a 3-mile drive where you can pet and feed ostriches, great kudu, elk and dromedaries. One of the more interesting aspects of Parc Safari is the Feline Tunnel, a glass enclosure you can walk through and see lions from every angle above, beside and below you.

Pig Beach (Exuma Cays, Bahamas)

Perhaps one of the most famously Instagrammable spots in the world, you can swim with real pigs in the Exuma Cays of the Bahamas. No one knows exactly why there are swimming pigs in the Caribbean, but everyone does know they're adorable.

The Raptor Trust (Millington, New Jersey)

If owls, eagles and ravens are your thing, you can't miss The Raptor Trust in Millington, New Jersey. Take a relaxing hike through the walking trails and aviaries, where you'll see about 50 different birds, including bald eagles, turkey vultures, ravens, snowy owls, red-tailed hawks and more.

San Diego Zoo (San Diego, California)

One of the best zoos in America, the San Diego Zoo is a must-visit if you're an animal lover. Like a trip around the world in one day, this expansive zoo boasts polar bears, giraffes, orangutans, penguins, gorillas, koalas and hundreds of other creatures. Travel about an hour away to the zoo's Safari Park where you can take a tour and see rhinos, giraffes, kangaroos and more up close. The San Diego Zoo is far and away one of the best things to do in California .

Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary (Rome, Italy)

If you're a cat lover, then you will be in heaven at the Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary in Rome, Italy. This Ancient Roman temple is now ruins that are home to over 150 feral cats that you can meet every day from noon to 6 p.m. Most of the cats that live here have special needs, whether they are blind, injured or come from abusive homes. This is also one of Rome's most historic spots; among the ruins is part of the Theatre of Pompey, where Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 B.C.

Volcanoes National Park (Musanze, Rwanda)

The very first national park in Africa, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is a truly remarkable place with 62 square miles of lush rainforest and five volcanoes. Here, you'll spot golden monkeys as well as the critically endangered mountain gorilla, which can only be seen on safari in Rwanda, Congo and Uganda. For $1,500, you can get a gorilla trek permit and see these majestic creatures up close and personal.

Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show (New York, New York)

Madison Square Garden hosts the annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City every February, and this event is a doggone dream. The show itself is a sight to behold and a friendly competition where pretty pups are judged against a breed standard until the Best in Show is found. There are events leading up to the show around the city, including the beloved Meet the Breeds event, where for $35, you can meet over 100 different breeds of dogs. It's a must-do if you're looking for your next pet. After all, having a dog does make you a better person .

The Wild Animal Sanctuary (Keenesburg, Colorado)

With more than 10,000 acres and more than 450 animals, the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado, is the largest nonprofit carnivore sanctuary in the world. This place truly is a sanctuary for animals, and its lions, tigers, wolves, bears, leopards and more roam freely. Thus, visiting is a wholly unique experience. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is famous for its Mile Into The Wild Walkway, an elevated 1.5-mile platform where you can truly see these animals in nature.

Wolf Haven International (Tenino, Washington)

Gray wolves, Mexican gray wolves, red wolves and even some wolfdogs call the Wolf Haven International sanctuary in Tenino, Washington, home. Their mission is simple: to rescue and provide sanctuary for displaced, captive-born wolves. Visitors here can expect a 50-minute guided walking tour through the public portion of the wolf sanctuary (a small portion of their total acreage) and see some of the residents.

Woodstock Farm Sanctuary (High Falls, New York)

Fun for the whole family, the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary in upstate New York is home to chickens, cows, ducks, goats, pigs, sheep and more farm animals that have been saved from the factory farming industry. A one-hour tour of this charming estate allows you to meet and greet some of these cuddly creatures. A word of warning, though: Because Woodstock Farm Sanctuary promotes veganism, they don't tiptoe around where meat comes from, so be sure your kids are willing to hear some hard truths.

Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming/Montana/Idaho)

Yellowstone National Park may be best known for Old Faithful, but the animals you'll see here are just as remarkable. You can spot black bears, bison, bobcats, bighorn sheep, elk, moose, mountain lions and more in their natural habitats. Home to over 67 different mammals and 300 different birds, Yellowstone's plentiful, diverse wildlife makes for some of the most magnificent views in America's national parks .

The 10 Best Places in the U.S. to See Wildlife

You don’t need to leave the country to have a wildlife experience of a lifetime..

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The 10 Best Places in the U.S. to See Wildlife

Located in North Dakota’s badlands, Theodore Roosevelt National Park protects the state’s natural beauty and serves as a living memorial to the 26th president.

Photo by Bram Reusen/Shutterstock

With nearly 3,000 different types of native animal species in the United States and 18,000 types of plants, it’s one of the world’s most ecologically rich countries —in fact, it’s recognized by the World Conservation Monitoring Center as one of 17 mega-diverse nations. From Maine’s rocky shores to the green rain forests of Washington, there’s much to see and do right here at home—no long-haul plane ticket or safari lodge reservation required.

There’s perhaps no better way to see America’s scenic landscapes than by visiting a national park. Created in 1916 by Woodrow Wilson with the signing of the “ Organic Act ,” the National Park Service, or NPS, has been hailed as one of the most democratic things the U.S. government has created and has been imitated all around the world . The NPS currently oversees 423 parks and monuments on a grand total of 85 million acres of land—all preserved “ for the enjoyment of future generations .”

But in many places in the U.S., you don’t even need a park pass to see wildlife. Take Austin’s famous bats or San Francisco’s cherry-headed parrots, for example—sometimes wild animals live in the same urban spaces we do. While there are countless unparalleled experiences to choose from, ranging from urban to remote, AFAR’s nature-loving editors have picked 10 of their favorite places to see wildlife in the United States. Peruse our list, then grab your binoculars and a sun hat for your next adventure in the great outdoors.

Olympic National Park protects one of the largest, last-remaining old-growth rain forests in the lower 48 states.

Photo by Soranat Chanruang/Shutterstock

1. Olympic National Park

Why go: An idyllic Pacific Northwest getaway with unparalleled quietude Nearest city: Seattle, Washington Animals of interest: Western screech-owls, bald eagles, gray whales, and black bears

Olympic National Park encompasses nearly 1 million acres, three distinct ecosystems, and what is arguably the quietest place in the United States . It’s no surprise then that some of the world’s most magnificent animal species live here. Wildlife lovers can listen for the hoot of several types of owls (including the adorable northern pygmy-owl ) in the temperate Hoh Rain Forest , whale watch along the peninsula’s western coast, and give a wide berth to passing black bears in the Olympic Mountains. Seattle is a two-hour drive away from the park’s northeast corner, and it is an easy jumping off point. Most people who want to spend a few days or more in the park can road-trip along the highway that loops around the peninsula, staying in the park’s main gateway towns: Port Angeles, Hoodsport, and Forks. For a more historic stay, book one of the longstanding lodges—Kalaloch, Lake Crescent, and Lake Quinault are all charming and comfortable options.

Bird lovers, you’ll have a field day here: The park offers more than 300 species, including bald eagles. (Look for them at beaches like Shi Shi, Second, and Third.) Looking for larger, land-based creatures? Beavers, black bears, and Roosevelt elk also call Olympic National Park home. Prefer water? In November and December, visitors to the Quinault River are likely to see sockeye salmon spawning. And, of course, there are whales: The park is situated along the Whale Trail . While there are multiple times of year to catch a glimpse, May is the best month to see both orcas and migrating gray whales. — Aislyn Greene

The Congress Avenue bridge is home to the largest urban bat colony in the world.

Photo by Kushal Bose/Shutterstock

2. Congress Avenue Bridge

Why go: See the largest urban bat colony in the world Nearest city: Austin, Texas Animal of interest: Mexican free-tailed bats

Austin is famous for its breakfast tacos and thriving music scene, but perhaps the city should also be known for having one of the most unusual tourist attractions—a sunset bat show. From late March through the early months of fall, an estimated 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats make a temporary home underneath the Congress Avenue Bridge, which leads right to the pink granite steps of the Texas Capitol. During their stay, the bats raise an average of 750,000 pups each year.

However, the bats weren’t always so welcome in Austin—locals used to think the flying mammals were responsible for spreading disease, and the city attempted to control the population. After years of organizations like Bat Conservation International advocating for all the good bats can do, such as controlling the local mosquito population (music to any Texan’s ears), people started flocking to the bridge each night to watch the bats take flight.

The bats are most active around twilight, when the colony begins waking up for their nightly insect feast. You can snag a spot on the banks of Ladybird Lake (also known as Town Lake to longtime Austinites) at the Statesman Bat Observation Center —the viewing area is free, parking is not—or simply wait on Congress Avenue’s sidewalk. The bats usually tend to fly east down the river, so keep your eyes peeled and your ears attuned to the sounds of thousands of wings and screeches. —Mae Hamilton

Created by tectonic forces 5 million years ago, the Channel Islands are home to species found nowhere else on Earth.

Photo by Travel Stock/Shutterstock

3. Channel Islands, California

Why go: It’s called “North America’s Galápagos” for a reason Nearest city: Ventura, California Animals of interest: Long-beaked common dolphins, sea lions, pilot whales, and several species of birds

Some 2,000 species of animals and plants live on the eight land masses that comprise the Channel Islands , and 145 of those are endemic. The islands, and the waters that surround them and separate them from the mainland, are teeming with marine and mammal life—and by contrast very few humans.

Take an Island Packers ferry to Santa Rosa Island from Ventura, a harbor and seaside city an hour north of Los Angeles, for a day of sea cave kayaking. While crossing over, it’s common to see pods of dolphins surrounding the ferry. Spend the morning paddling along the shores of Santa Rosa Island accompanied by sea lions and brown pelicans (which once faced extinction but now thrive thanks to abundant kelp forests). Expert guides from the Santa Barbara Adventure Company can point out all manner of hidden creatures.

There’s plenty more to do on the islands, including hiking, snorkeling, swimming, and exploring tide pools. There’s no real permanent infrastructure or lodgings, so you pack in and pack out and visit for the day or camp for a night or two. It’s just a few miles from the mainland but a world away. —Tim Chester

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is a short drive from downtown Denver.

Photo by Dr. Alan Lipkin/Shutterstock

4. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

Why go: Pure wilderness a short drive from Denver Nearest city: Denver, Colorado Animals of interest: Bison, elk, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, prairie dogs

With its herds of bison, prairie dogs, elk, and more , it’s hard to believe that Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge , one of the largest wildlife refuges in the nation, is just a 10-mile drive from downtown Denver. And with over 280 species of birds, including songbirds, waterfowl, and raptors, the 15,000-acre park is a birder’s paradise. Spring is arguably the best time to visit the park when migrating birds make their way back to Denver’s foothills and black-footed ferret kits are making their first forays into the big world from their burrows. Best of all, it’s free to visit.

An 11-mile Wildlife Drive runs through the refuge (consider listening to the park’s podcast while you’re at it) so visitors don’t even have to leave the comfort of their car during their visit. Those who’d rather experience the prairie landscape up close have 20 miles of easy hiking trails to choose from, and bikes are permitted on some of them—two hours is more than enough time to experience the refuge’s hikes and auto tour. And since Denver is nearby, perhaps grab a latte before heading out before dawn to see the park’s 150 bison—truly a sight to see when the grasslands are gloriously bathed in the Rocky Mountains’ golden light. —Chloe Arrojado

From October to early March, Acadia’s Cadillac Mountain is said to be the first place the sunrise touches on the East Coast.

Photo by Romiana Lee/Shutterstock

5. Acadia National Park

Why go: Bask in the splendor of coastal Maine and see the Milky Way at night Nearest town: Bar Harbor, Maine Animals of interest: Bobcats, beavers, and peregrine falcons

Acadia National Park, one of the oldest in the national park system, is the oldest park east of the Mississippi River. Comprising 47,000 picturesque acres, Acadia is sometimes referred to as the “Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast.” Though the park is centered around Mount Desert Island, which is connected to the mainland via state route 3, several other islands are also part of Acadia, including the remote Isle Au Haut , which you can reach from the mainland via a ferry that leaves from Stonington a few times a day.

As you trek along Acadia’s 158 miles of hiking trails, be on the lookout for native East Coast animals like minks, red foxes, and beavers. Some of the most exciting creatures to see are the peregrine falcons , the fastest birds in the world (they can reach speeds of up to 186 miles per hour). Prior to 1936, the falcons used to nest regularly in Acadia, but due to deleterious human activity, including nest robbing, trapping, and pesticide contamination, scientists believed they had all but disappeared. After years of park reintroduction efforts, a pair of peregrine falcons finally nested in 1991. Since then, a total of 160 chicks have hatched in Acadia. Keep binoculars at the ready for a blur of feathers swooping by. —Mae Hamilton

The free-roaming horses of Theodore Roosevelt National Park escaped attempts to round them up for years. In 1970, they were finally recognized as historically significant to the legacy of the park.

Photo by Alicia Marvin/Shutterstock

6. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Why go: Wide-open spaces, wild horses, scenic byways, and more than 100 miles of trails Nearest city: Medora, North Dakota Animals of interest: Bison, elk, free-roaming horses

The 26th president of the United States said many things in his life, but to North Dakotans , it was Theodore Roosevelt’s veneration of the state that stands out the most. “If it had not been for the years spent in North Dakota and what I learned there, I would not have been president of the United States,” he said . Roosevelt was particularly influenced by land he invested in and owned near Medora, which would later be expanded, named in his honor, and made a national park in 1978.

Today, bison, the largest mammals in North America, roam freely within the park, as do bands of free-moving horses. ( Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the few national parks where they can be observed in the wild.) Add to the list some striking geological mounds, golden prairie grasses, and views of the snaking Little Missouri River, and you’ve got a national park like no other—and no, that’s not just North Dakota pride talking. —Katherine LaGrave

Thanks to its proximity to whale calving areas, the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail makes it an ideal place to whale watch.

Photo by E.J.Johnson Photography/Shutterstock

7. Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline

Why go: An easy hike along O‘ahu’s sparkling coastline Nearest city: Honolulu, Hawai’i Animals of interest: Frigatebirds, tropicbirds, and humpback whales

Maui may get the lion’s share of attention as the best Hawaiian island to see whales, but don’t knock O‘ahu for whale watching before you try it. Take the leisurely drive from Honolulu up Highway 72 (where you’ll also pass the Halona Blowhole and likely have to pick your jaw off the floor of the car while soaking in the coastline’s beauty) and try to snag a parking spot at the Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trailhead .

The trail is just a 2.5-mile round-trip journey and takes about an hour to complete. As you plod along, you’ll likely see white-breasted frigatebirds winging overhead and shimmering tide pools far below—be sure to pause at the landing that offers up a glorious view of the nearby Koko Head Crater . But, of course, the most exciting thing visitors could possibly see on their hike is a breaching humpback whale. The ocean between O‘ahu and Maui is warm, shallow, and free from predators like killer whales, making it an ideal nursery for calves and mothers. Book a trip to the islands anytime from November through May, which is calving season, for the best chances of seeing a humpback. Since the trail is sited along the coast, the path is almost entirely unshaded, so pack a hat and slather on some ecofriendly sunscreen. — Mae Hamilton

Mount Diablo State Park is one of the gems of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Photo by Chris LaBasco/Shutterstock

8. Mount Diablo State Park

Why go: Hiking, biking, and panoramic views of the Bay Area from the 3,849-foot summit Nearest city: San Francisco, California Animals of interest: Tarantulas, sea lions, and cherry-headed parrots

San Francisco has some famous wildlife residents that call the city home. For starters, there are the Pier 39 sea lions , whose population can grow up to 900 each winter. Over on Telegraph Hill, a wild flock of cherry-headed conures (aka cherry-headed parrots ) that took up residence in the 1980s have had documentaries and books dedicated to them.

And sited 40 miles outside of the city, Mount Diablo State Park is home to peregrine falcons, quails, and bobcats. As summer turns to fall, aspiring entomologists will want to head into the park to witness tarantula mating season. Though typically these extra-large arachnids live underground, in September, adult males can be found crawling along the roads and hiking trails around the Mitchell Canyon area of the park in search of a female in her burrow. Their leg span can reach up to 11 inches , but don’t be creeped out: They’re surprisingly gentle creatures and are not poisonous to humans. —Lyndsey Matthews

Katmai is famous for its pristine rivers teeming with fish and for the brown bears patrolling its waters.

Photo by oksana.perkins/Shutterstock

9. Katmai National Park and Preserve

Why go: The most abundant population of brown bears in the wild Nearest town: King Salmon, Alaska Animals of interest: Brown bears and sockeye salmon

It takes an hour flight from Anchorage to the town of King Salmon—and then a 45-minute water taxi from there—to reach Katmai National Park and Preserve . But it’s worth the trek to see one of nature’s great dramas unfold.

Brooks Falls , a six-foot-tall waterfall within the preserve, is where hundreds of thousands of sockeye salmon meet their fates every year from the months of June through September. It’s the final hurdle of their battle to return to the spawning grounds where they hatched and the completion of their life cycle.

The fish fight their way upstream, hurl themselves over the cascade, and follow their internal homing devices to the exact spot where they were born to lay (or fertilize) their own eggs. Or, if they’re unlucky, one of the roughly 2,200 hungry brown bears that call the park home will snatch them midflight and make a meal of them.

There are three bear-viewing areas, situated atop raised platforms, within the park. One is spine-tinglingly close to the action of Brooks Falls (where an estimated 300 sockeye salmon attempt the jump every minute in peak season). The other two are further downstream, where sows (female bears) and cubs are more common. —Bailey Berg

Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the longest cave system in the world.

Photo by Ko Zatu/Shutterstock

10. Mammoth Cave National Park

Why go: Spelunk the longest cave system in the world Nearest town: Park City, Kentucky Animals of interest: Kentucky cave shrimp, sheepnose mussels, eyeless cave fish, and Rafinesque big-eared bats

Cave ecosystems are considered to be among the most fragile environments on the planet. Animals that live in caves, known as troglobites , are adapted to survive in a place with stable temperatures year round and in partial to total darkness. Beneath the sprawling pastures, rolling hills, and tranquil river valleys of Kentucky, the state has a cave system that’s believed to be the longest in the world, with close to 6,000 miles of chambers—only 400 of which have been explored.

About 130 wildlife species call the subterranean world beneath Mammoth Cave National Park home—70 are classified as threatened or endangered . During a tour of the cave, visitors might see critters such as the Indiana bat , eyeless Kentucky cave shrimp (once thought to be extinct), and several kinds of freshwater mussels—all of which are very sensitive to any environmental change. After you’re done hiking through the underground pathways of Mammoth Cave, consider hanging around at the park above ground. The 52,830-acre mixed-deciduous and coniferous forest is considered one of the most biodiverse in the nation , where white-tailed deer, eastern gray squirrels, and black bears roam the sylvan landscapes among 1,300 species of plants , including 80 kinds of trees. —Mae Hamilton

>> Next: The Great Nebraska Migration of Sandhill Cranes and the Birders Who Love Them

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8 Best Places to See Wildlife in the U.S.

By Tyler Moss

In Swahili, the word safari means “journey” or “trip.” Yet in English, the term implies an African tour with the express purpose of observing native fauna—lions, elephant, antelopes, oh my! But if you wanted to see the United States’ "Big Eight" in their natural habitat, where would you go? Here, eight destinations (and the creatures therein) across the country.

Image may contain Grassland Outdoors Field Nature Animal Cow Mammal Cattle Countryside Meadow Farm and Rural

To see bison : Custer State Park, South Dakota

Located in western South Dakota among the Black Hills, Custer State Park provides a peaceful home for America’s “First National Mammal” (thus named by President Obama in 2016). Herds of bison—more than 1,000 strong, in total—wander the grounds, munching on ample rangeland. Visit in autumn to witness the annual Buffalo Roundup , where cowboys initiate a stampede to corral the 1,400-pound animals to sort and brand them; or visit year-round to view the bison from the safety of a jeep tour.

Image may contain Animal Wildlife Mammal Bear and Brown Bear

To see Kodiak bears : Kodiak archipelago, Alaska

Full of fjords, towering mountains, and glacial valleys, the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1941 for the specific purpose of protecting Kodiaks, the largest subspecies of brown bear. Today, the 1.9 million acres of protected land serve as the habitat for some 3,000 bears, which are best seen in summer months—when the temperatures aren’t frigid and the Kodiaks aren’t deep in hibernation—via local groups like Kodiak Wildlife Tours .

Image may contain Animal Wildlife Mammal Antelope Deer Elk and Moose

To see moose : Northern Maine

The Pine Tree State has the largest population of moose in the mainland U.S., with estimates near 75,000. The Maine Highlands and Aroostook County in the north provide more remote areas specifically worth exploring—especially from May through the fall, when moose are more prone to wander. Increase your odds of spotting the shy giants by booking a tour, like one with Northeast Whitewater , where you can observe moose from a canoe alongside a registered tour guide.

To see alligators : the Everglades, Florida

Both American alligators and crocodiles can be found in Everglades National Park, the only place in the world the species cohabitate in the wild. Still, gators—who prefer freshwater marshes and swamps, but can also thrive in the brackish Glades—are the more plentiful species. With males growing up to 15 feet in length, and females up to ten feet, these massive reptiles won’t be hard to spot with the help of a guide (like those at Down South Airboat Tours ). To avoid clouds of mosquitoes, impromptu thunderstorms, and insufferable humidity, think about visiting the Everglades outside of the summer months, as the gators can be seen year-round.

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Image may contain Animal Bird Eagle and Bald Eagle

To see bald eagles : Klamath Basin, California/Oregon border

The bald eagle has served as an official symbol of the U.S. since the Continental Congress put it on the Great Seal in 1782. Today, one of the best places to catch the majestic birds in action is the Upper Klamath Basin, which straddles the Oregon/California border. Plan a trip between November and March, when bald eagles flock for feeding. Before you go, check with the Klamath Basin Audubon Society for information on upcoming birding trips with expert guides.

Image may contain Animal Dolphin Mammal Sea Life Fish and Shark

To see dolphins : Oahu’s West Coast, Hawaii

Unlike the other animals in this list, which are best viewed from a distance, travelers can get up close and personal with the dolphins that congregate off the western coast of Oahu. (If you don't want to leave your beach chair, though, the jumping spinner dolphins—present in the waters year-round—can even be seen some days from shore.) For a truly immersive experience, consider an eco-friendly boat excursion with a group like Wild Side Specialty Tours , where you can swim with a pod after some simple training.

Image may contain Animal Wildlife Mammal Mountain Goat Goat and Sheep

To see mountain goats : Glacier National Park, Montana

What can jump 12 feet in a single bound—and will trek up to 15 miles to lick a natural salt deposit? Chances are the snow-white mountain goat was not your first guess, but these nimble creatures that wander the steep cliffs of Glacier National Park are well-worth your attention. Plan your expedition with the resources available from the National Park Service, and aim to go between May and October, when trails are least likely to be obstructed by snow. A good place to start? Logan Pass, via Going-to-the-Sun Road, where the goats are especially prevalent.

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To see elephant seals : Point Reyes National Seashore, California

In the heat of mating season (December through March), up to 2,500 elephant seals crowd the beaches of the Point Reyes National Seashore, about an hour and a half north of San Francisco . Named after their short, elephant-like snout, these marine creatures can weigh as much as 5,500 pounds. Prior to visiting, check for seasonal closures , as some beaches overrun with seals may have restricted access—although you can still view the pinnipeds from a distance at the Elephant Seal Overlook, near Chimney Rock.

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Ten great places to see animals up close

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There's few more thrilling travel experiences than getting up close and personal with animals in their natural environment. Here, taken from the pages of Make The Most Of Your Time On Earth , are ten ideas for nature lovers around the world. Whether it's wolves in Wyoming or jellyfish in Palau, there's all kinds of experiences to try. Let us know your own favourite animal spots below.

Bathing with snow monkeys, Japan

Wolf-watching in yellowstone national park, wyoming, walking with giants at serra da canastra, brazil, up close with pandas in chengdu, china, tracing the turtle arribada at orissa, india, make like kipling on the elephant show, india, stalking the creatures of the night, singapore, drifting with jellyfish in micronesia, palau, doing the crocodile rock in kakadu national park, australia, watching whales in kaikoura, new zealand.

Should you choose to imagine a monkey, it’s likely to be surrounded in your mind’s eye by tropical vines or thick jungle, trading screams with the parrots or chowing down a banana. Snowy peaks would not usually be on the agenda, but Japan is home to a particular breed of macaque that positively revels in the stuff.

These clever monkeys share a number of common bonds with human beings – they’re one of the only two animals known to wash their food before eating it, and no other primates live further north. Also, like their occasionally more intelligent two-legged cousins, many macaques counter the winter cold by hunting down a source of warmth; in Japan, you’re never far from a hot spring, and one of the country’s most magical winter sights is the view of a horde of apes silhouetted in the mist of an outdoor pool.

The winter coincides with the mating season, and it’s hard to say what’s more amusing – monkeys engaging in poolside trysts, or the Japanese pretending not to notice. Tourists head to places such as Jigokudani in Yamanouchi to catch glimpses of the bathing apes, especially the loveable baby macaques. Bear in mind that though their eyes may appear dispassionate, it’s unwise to look directly into them for too long, lest it be taken as a sign of aggression.

You can see snow monkeys throughout Japan, but your best chances are in Jigokudani, or “Hell’s Valley”.

gray-wolf-snow-winter-yellowstone-usa-shutterstock_1101386426

Famous and legendary female alpha wolf 06F on the prowl in the Lamar Valley © Richard Seeley/Shutterstock

Waking at ink-black 4am to groggily don layers of long underwear is an inauspicious start to a day. But as a crack of light on the horizon grows and an eerie chorus of hair-raising howls rises from the gloom ahead, your discomfort is soon forgotten. The morning’s wolf-watch is already a success. When it was founded in 1872, Yellowstone was celebrated as a wonderland of gushing geysers, where elk and bison roamed freely. But while visitors flocked to the world’s first national park to glory in the steady steam of Old Faithful, indigenous animals believed to be a danger to man were trapped and killed at virtually every opportunity. Grey wolves were particularly feared, and the last pack was exterminated in 1926.

The population has been in decline in recent years and, at the time of writing, less than a hundred wolves now roam here. Despite this, a single pack in Yellowstone can live within less than fifty square miles, and the park is still the most reliable place in the wild for watching wolves. Even if you’re not fortunate enough to see a wolf, you’ll get to interact with the omnipresent wolf-watching parties clustered along the park’s highways, exchanging stories of favourite wolves and dramatic hunts between peeks through a line of spotting scopes.

For more information on wolf-watching in Yellowstone, visit www.yellowstoneassociation.org.

Among South America’s menagerie of the weird and wonderful, few creatures come stranger than the giant anteater. And nowhere do you have a better chance of seeing this animal than among the high, rolling grasslands of Serra da Canastra National Park.

Here, perched on a plateau in Minas Gerais Province, the beleaguered animals are safe from the hunters, traffic and loggers that have reduced their numbers across the continent and so more inclined to wander about in broad daylight. Just find an elevated spot and scan the slopes; sooner or later you’ll spot that distinctive profile working a distant hillside. Every termite mound is scarred with their excavations.

It’s not only anteaters that make Canastra special. This park marks the birthplace of the mighty Sào Francisco river, which gurgles up from a fern-choked hollow on the plateau to cross the grasslands and cascade off the escarpment into the forests below. Hike the river’s upper reaches and you may meet a rare maned wolf – a fox on stilts, decked out with a horse’s mane and tail – stalking elegantly through the long grass.

Serra da Canastra National Park (www.canastra.com.br) lies 8km from the town of Sao Roque de Minas and about five hours’ drive from Belo Horizonte – the nearest airport. Access is best during the dry season (April–Oct).

panda-bear-sleep-tree-china-shutterstock_688280269

There’s only one thing cuter than a giant panda: its cuddly, bumbling baby, the closest animal equivalent to a real live teddy. But these loveable black-and-white bears are one of the most reproductively challenged species on the planet, with exceptionally low birth rates. It’s thought that there are fewer than two thousand of them left worldwide. The Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, just outside Chengdu in Sichuan, was established to preserve this cherished emblem of China, and has become a magnet for panda fans worldwide. It’s extremely rare to see a cub in zoos, and it’s virtually impossible to see any pandas at all in the wild – but come to the research base and you’ll see plenty.

There are no bars or railings here; instead, each enclosure is separated from the public pathways by a deep trench – come at feeding time and you can gaze unobstructed as mummy panda languidly chews her way through several heaps of bamboo shoots and leaves, slumped nonchalantly on the floor and occasionally throwing a bemused glance at her adoring admirers.

But there’s no doubt who steals the show. Panda cubs come charging out of the compounds with surprising energy, romping over the grass and scrambling up the trees, invariably tumbling to the ground again and again as they make hilariously slapstick attempts to reach the top.

The Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base ( www.panda.org.cn ) is located 10km outside Chengdu in Sichuan province.

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8 Little Known Places In Ohio Where Animal Lovers Should Go

April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.

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It’s no secret that Ohio’s zoos are top-notch. What may be a secret to you, however, are the following 8 little known places in Ohio that will give you an unforgettable encounter with animals. Here are 8 little known places in Ohio that animal lovers should definitely check out:

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Have you been to any of these places before? Share your experiences and photos with us in the comments below!

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12 Places for Animal Adventures in North Carolina

Eager to explore the wild side of North Carolina? Get up close and personal with the fascinating creatures that share our state at aquariums, zoos, wildlife refuges and more.

In North Carolina, wild animals love to come out and play, often even posing for photo ops in their natural habitats. Here are some places you can perch, roam, learn about and observe the fascinating creatures that share our state with us.

1 Duke Lemur Center

Two people crouching down in forest looking at lemur sitting on log

The Duke Lemur Center is a non-invasive research facility that holds the world’s largest and most diverse population of lemurs outside Madagascar. To get up close and personal to these wide-eyed creatures, choose from a multitude of tours ranging from large public tours to learning how to be a lemur keeper for a day – just make sure you have a reservation; they’re required. You can even symbolically “adopt” a lemur, where the proceeds go toward the care and conservation of this endangered mammal, or send the lemurs a present from their wish list . Keep an eye out for a thank you card from your lemur friends if you do.

2 Greensboro Science Center

Aerial view of people touching stingrays in touch tank

This destination is home to a museum, aquarium and zoo, and it’s all included in one general admission fee. In the museum, kids are blown away by the size of the dinosaur models and from the winds of hurricane forces in the Extreme Weather Gallery. The aquarium features penguins, sharks, otters, eels, stingrays and a variety of fish. And the zoo offers up-close views of tigers, meerkats, lemurs, crocodiles, a red panda, farm animals and more.

3 Western North Carolina Nature Center

This facility showcases animals native to the Southern Appalachians. Red and gray wolves, cougars, bobcats, and coyotes prowl in the predator habitat, and river otters swim and play in their own special area at the Western North Carolina Nature Center . There’s an Educational Farm outside, plus 42 acres of interactive exhibits in the Nature Center.

4 North Carolina Zoo

More than 1,700 animals representing 200+ species will amuse and amaze you at a zoo divided into “Africa” and “North America.” ("Asia" is scheduled to open in the next few years.) In Africa, you can get eye-to-eye with a giraffe, castaway to Lemur Island and head for an "immersion walkway" above the Watani Grasslands. From this vantage point you can spot elephants, white rhinos, ostriches and other animals in a spacious habitat that stands in for the grasslands of Africa. From there, you can walk or take a tram to North America, where habitats range from a cypress swamp to a desert.

Go Beyond the Guidebook at the Nation’s Largest Natural Habitat Zoo

5 North Carolina Aquariums

Woman holding small child inside aquarium, looking in jellyfish tank

No matter where you vacation on the NC coast, an aquarium is never far away . At the Roanoke Island aquarium on the Outer Banks, you can see the largest collection of sharks in our state and touch a variety of aquatic and semi-aquatic creatures in the Sea Senses tank. Exhibits at the Pine Knoll Shores aquarium near Atlantic Beach lead you from the mountains to the sea as you follow a stream’s journey to the ocean, watching river otters, fish and reptiles along the way. At the Fort Fisher location, you can climb into the replica jaws of the Megalodon, a prehistoric shark the size of a bus that lived right off our coast. You can also visit Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head for a variety of educational programs from fishing lessons to kids’ science camps.

6 Lazy 5 Ranch

More than 750 animals from six continents call the Lazy 5 Ranch home. You can board a horse-drawn wagon to view rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and many other striped and spotted residents. Or drive your own vehicle on the 3.5-mile route and expect shrieks of laughter from your kids as they hand-feed ostriches, llamas, zebras and other animals that come right up to your windows.

7 Grandfather Mountain

Black bear in Grandfather Mountain Wildlife Habitat on sunny day with trees and rocks and pond

Best known for its hiking trails and Mile High Swinging Bridge, this iconic North Carolina attraction also gives you an up-close view of local animals, ranging from black bears and cougars to bald eagles and river otters. If you’re feeling really adventurous, try the Backcountry Hiking Trails, home to 16 distinct ecosystems and more than 70 rare or endangered animal species.

Beyond the Guidebook: The Wonder of Grandfather Mountain

8 Animal Park at the Conservators Center

Lions, tigers and bobcats are just three of the many species totaling more than 70 exotic animals you’ll see up close. The Animal Park at the Conservators Center focuses on education, conservation and rescue. And it also offers a variety of tours year-round, including some specifically for kids and families, as well as seasonal tours.

9 Carolina Tiger Rescue

Take a reservations-only guided tour to meet tigers and other endangered carnivores that have found sanctuary at the Carolina Tiger Rescue facility 30 miles west of Raleigh. Tours, including a seasonal twilight tour, bring you close to the animals at their most active times.

10 Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

Alligator blending in with grass and brush on an Alligator River kayak tour in Nags Head

This 150,000-plus-acre refuge was established to preserve a wetland habitat called the pocosin, a Native American word meaning ‟swamp-on-the-hill.” You can walk trails into a freshwater swamp or a cypress swamp, or take a tram or guided canoe tour to look for animals ranging from swans and river otters to black bears.

Visit NC's Wildlife Refuges

11 Carolina Raptor Center

Walk along this center’s 0.75-mile nature trail to see and learn about more than 30 species of eagles, hawks, owls, and other raptors or birds of prey. The Carolina Raptor Center takes in about 900 injured or orphaned birds annually, and it offers interactive programs for kids of all ages.

12 OBX Lizard Land

With more than 150 animals and nearly 80 species, OBX Lizard Land is focused on the conservation of wild populations and the responsible keeping and breeding of captive species. Get up close with lizards, snakes, insects and birds with a general admission ticket, which includes interaction with one to three ambassador animals.

Ends: 6/15/2024

2024 Outdoor NC Pledge Sweepstakes

Sweepstakes, a family-friendly wildlife tour of the north carolina coast, make furry friends at animal-centric places, sea turtle attractions on the coast.

16 of the Best Petting Zoos Near Me & Places to Visit Animals

Posted on Last updated: March 13, 2024

Categories Travel , Grade schoolers , Outdoor Fun , Things to do

There are many opportunities to get an up-close and personal experience with animals – visit a Petting Zoo or farm, Touch a Giraffe, or even cuddle a lamb.

I love taking my kids to petting zoos and farms near me in the Dallas area! I didn’t realize there were so many of them until I researched ones around the DFW Metroplex, so I put them together in this post.

If you have Children who love animals and want to see Animals up close, then get ready to find nearby Zoos, Petting Zoos near me, Aquariums, and Animals out in Nature.

There are some great You Pick farms close to DFW that also have animals too.

From A to Z – Aquariums to Zoos, there is something for you!

More: 10+ of the Most Fun Things to Do in Dallas with Kids

Which are the Best Local Aquariums, Nature Farms and Petting Zoos near me?

Heritage Farmstead Museum

Address: 1900 W 15th St, Plano, TX 75075

Phone: (972) 881-0140

Located in the heart of Plano, Heritage Farmstead Museum is so rich in history. It is the premier living history site interpreting the Texas Blackland Prairie region in North Texas.

The Farmstead built in 1891 includes the original Victorian home, which is standing on a 356-acre farm with old-fashioned 3 barns, and other structures that recall early life in the Lone Star State.

Take the kids and introduce them to a piece of living history, take some photos, and meet some cute barn animals.

Storybook Ranch

Address: 3701 Custer Rd, McKinney, TX 75070

Phone: (972) 369-0874

The Storybook Ranch was established in 1887 as a working cattle ranch, and to this day, they are you excellent venue option for any special events, and they offer activities for the whole family.

Activities include a trail ride, horse camp, horseback riding lessons, tours, a petting zoo, and a pumpkin patch.

Stockyard Stables

Address: 157 E Exchange Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76164

Phone: (817) 239-8830

Are you looking for a true Texas Cowboy Adventure? We have a perfect place for you!

Stockyard Stables is located in the historical Fort Worth stockyards, which offers trail ride for kids (at least 11yr old) and adults.

They take you for a ride down the Old Chisholm Trail and along the Trinity River toward the Fort Worth Sky Line. They also offer arena rides, longhorn steer photos, a petting zoo, and even stagecoach and carriage rides.

Giddy up and have a Texan Cowboy experience!

Country Critters Farm

Address: 3709 County Rd 617, Alvarado, TX 76009

Phone: (682) 593-1866

Cathy’s Critters

Address: 7422 Co Rd 466, Princeton, TX 75407

Phone: (972) 562-0583

Cathy’s Critters provides high-quality humane education and safe, socially-distanced, outdoor fun.

They’ll be open midday hours Friday every week with special activities in addition to our normal Open Farm Day offerings. Weekends will feature trail rides , animal care talks from our experts, and pony cart rides.

Friday adds a special “Kid Zone” track of supervised activities for kids allowing parents to drop-off and pick-up and have a “day off” from 9am – 2pm as well as Storytime readings at 10:30am and 12:30pm.

Preston Trail Farm

Address: 15102 TX-289, Gunter, TX 75058

Phone: (972) 382-4995

We like to call it a petting farm and not a petting zoo, because we focus exclusively on farm animals.

Located just North of Dallas, (not far from Prosper, Texas), visitors can see over 50 goats, cows and even some real longhorn cattle up close and personal in their full-time home right here on the farm.

The Best Zoos in the Dallas area

Address: 650 S R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75203

Phone: (469) 554-7501

There is nothing more fun than going to the zoo for the kiddos. That smile, while looking at the animal for the first time, is priceless.

And you can experience that at the Dallas Zoo! It has been recognized as one of the top 10 zoos in the US and is the most immense zoological experience in Texas.

With an area of 106 acres of park to explore, thousands of animals to see, and tons of programs for the whole, this is an excellent place for an adventure.

Don’t miss visiting the Giants of the Savanna Exhibit, an 11-acre safari experience where visitors can get up close and personal with giraffes, elephants, lions, cheetahs, and many other African species. You can also book guided tours too.

Fort Worth Zoo

Address: 1989 Colonial Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76110

Phone: (817)759-7555

We are so lucky, we’ve got tons of places to visit, and we have the number 1 Zoo in the nation just under an hour’s drive away.

Fort Worth Zoo has finished in the USA Today’s top five for the 4th time, and this year it finally has taken the number one spot. How awesome is that!

It is home to more than 7000 native and exotic animals, and its wide array of indoor and outdoor exhibits includes World of Primates, Asian Falls, and Raptor.

Bring the whole family; there’s something for everyone at the Fort Worth Zoo.

Gentle Zoo (temporarily closed, Summer 2023)

Address: 12600 FM2932, Forney, TX 75126

Phone: (469) 834-2857

Local Aquariums to Visit in the Dallas area

Dallas world aquarium.

Address: 1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202

Phone: (214) 720-2224

This is not your ordinary aquarium; the Dallas World Aquarium is a place where you will be delighted, amazed, and excited with all the kinds of animals housed here.

They feature fantastic wildlife exhibits, including all the different types of freshwater fish, reptiles, amphibians, and exotic birds, along with a wide array of animals that are part of many conservation projects.

Sea Life Aquarium Grapevine

Address: Mills Mall, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Grapevine, TX 76051

Phone: (469) 444-3050

A great place to see all forms of sea life! You name it, and they most likely have it, from a clownfish to starfish to seahorses, sharks, and a lot more.

They’ve got thousands of sea creatures, both exotic saltwater and native freshwater sea life.

The new permanent exhibit, Sea Turtle Rescue Center, allows visitors of all ages to learn about the threats turtles face in the wild and experience first-hand the process of successfully rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sea turtles.

You can access many of these venues for free , with the Annual Entertainment Pogo Pass around DFW – we have 50% off your purchase which you can use now.

Where can you see Animals in Nature?

Trinity river audubon center.

Address: 6500 S Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas, TX 75217

Phone: (214) 309-5801

Located just a ten-minute drive from downtown Dallas, Trinity River Audubon Center is your gateway to explore the fantastic resources of the 6,000-acre Great Trinity Forest.

As stated on their website, it is the largest urban hardwood forest in the United States; this forest supports a diverse community of plant and animal species and contains a unique mixture of bottomland hardwoods, wetlands, and grasslands.

Make time to explore this part of our city and have a day full of adventure – take a hike along five miles of trails, enjoy birdwatching, and don’t miss the indoor exhibit hall to learn more about the plants and animals that are native to the lands.

More: This is one of 23 Nature Hikes and Trails close by.

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary

Address: 1 Nature Pl, McKinney, TX 75069

Phone: (972) 562-5566

Founded in 1967, the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect place to explore, and the whole family has the indoor and outdoor exhibits to enjoy.

They have a beautiful trail, playground, animal exhibits, butterfly house, a 2-acre plant garden, and the famous Dinosaur Live (where you encounter the 46-foot T-Rex and nine new life-size animatronic dinosaurs)!

The Heard Museum exists to bring nature and people together to discover, enjoy, experience, restore, and preserve our priceless environment.

Where can you see Exotic Animals?

In sync exotics.

Address: 3430 Skyview Dr, Wylie, TX 75098

Phone: (972) 442-6888

In-Sync Exotics is a wildlife rescue and educational center whose mission is to provide a caring, safe haven to many big Cats by putting their needs above all else; the old, the maimed, and the unwanted can find sanctuary in their facility.

Just taking a visit will support their organization and their cause. As a non-profit organization, they are dedicated to rescuing neglected, abused, and unwanted exotic felines.

Today, In-Sync Exotics provides specialized care for over 70 exotic wild cats (and two lemurs) by feeding them with their specific diets, providing them with medical care, spacious habitats with toys, tubs, and pools, enrichment, and loving attention.

Visit them and enjoy your day exploring and learning about exotic cats.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

Address: 2299 Co Rd 2008, Glen Rose, TX 76043

Phone: (254) 897-2960

Combine your visit to Glen Rose with a stay and a visit to the Country Woods which has cabins, cool airstream trailers, and lots of farm animals.

It’s a must for any animal or nature lover. You can get tickets for their guided tour or self-guided drive along their 7.2 miles of Texas Hill Country.

You will see several unique and endangered animals, feed the giraffes, and stop for a break at the Overlook Cafe & Store to stretch your legs, pet some animals, and take in the views!

Make a day of it by visiting one of the best historic small town squares in Granbury, TX, before or after your tour. It is full of quaint shops, local eateries, and boutique hotels.

More: Take a Trip to 6 Spots in Glen Rose, Texas

Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch

Address: 11670 Massey Rd, Pilot Point, TX 76258

Phone: (940) 686-4600

A smaller and more personalized experience than a traditional Zoo, Sharkarosa offers Kids a chance to experience rare and endangered exotic wildlife in a unique and personal setting.

Located near Lake Ray Roberts , it has 126 acres of land with 130 animals onsite, Barrel train rides & outdoor dining areas.

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If you’re looking to adopt or foster a dog or cat, volunteer to help homeless pets in your community, or report a lost or found animal, your best bet is to identify and contact your local animal shelter.

You can locate a municipal or nonprofit shelter or rescue organization near you by using Petfinder's shelter list. If you live in New York City, Los Angeles, or North Carolina, the ASPCA operates specialized programs in these areas that provide second chances to cats and dogs who are often overlooked.

For a list of ASPCA animals who are available for adoption, select one of the following: Dogs and Cats in NYC » Cats in Los Angeles » Dogs in North Carolina » Horses in Oklahoma »

Use our national database below to see animals looking for homes at municipal and nonprofit shelters and rescue organizations across the country. Dogs in Your Local Shelters » Cats in Your Local Shelters » Horses Available for Adoption Locally »

You could also consider finding your new furry family member through owner-to-owner adoption. Visit Get Your Pet, an online community where people looking to adopt a pet can connect with people who need to find their pet a new home.

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In NYC Help animals in NYC by volunteering your time at the ASPCA Adoption Center or Animal Care Centers of New York City (ACC) in one of the city’s five boroughs or consider fostering a pet .

Outside NYC To learn how you can volunteer or help foster animals in your community, use Petfinder’s shelter list to locate and contact an independent shelter or rescue near you. Foster Cats from the ASPCA in Los Angeles » Foster Dogs from the ASPCA Cruelty Recovery Center in Ohio » Foster Dogs from the ASPCA Behavioral Rehabilitation Center » Volunteer at the ASPCA Cruelty Recovery Center in Ohio » Volunteer at the ASPCA Behavioral Rehabilitation Center in North Carolina »

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If you’ve found a lost pet or stray animal in your area, contact your local shelter for guidance on the best steps to take. For those located in New York City, you can find more information on how to report a stray animal on NYC311 . Residents of Los Angeles can reference the LA Animal Services website . When coming across stray kittens outdoors, be sure to review the ASPCA’s online resource about the best course of action to take to avoid unintentionally orphaning kittens who are being cared for by their mother.

*The external links on this page are not an indication of any direct or indirect endorsement or partnership with the listed sites.

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15 travel destinations for people who are obsessed with animals

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on December 21, 2018 |

For those who love animals, travelling and being able to spend time with them is like a little piece of heaven. There are many destinations in which animals are the main attraction and they attract global travellers who want to see, touch and play with them. But, a huge problem with animal tourism is the exploitation of animals, putting them in stressful situations and even torturing them.

Of course, people who really love animals will want to stay away from these places and only have contact with animals in a natural and non-stressful situation. Want to know the best places for animal lovers, where you can interact ethically and not contribute to their exploitation? Then you’ve come to the right place! Here are the best places for animal lovers.

1. Cats in Japan

The land of Hello Kitty has 13 islands where the population of cats exceeds that of humans. The most famous of these is the Aoshima, which has 6 cats for every island resident and is actually known as the Island of the Cats. Since Aoshima is only accessible by ferry there are a limited number of people who can access it daily.

best places for animal lovers - cats - Japan

Near Tokyo , the island of Enoshina has thousands of cats roaming the streets and an abundance of other cultural sights. This island is more accessible than Aoshima. However, regardless of which island you are visiting, it is important to pay attention to the rules: do not force the animals onto your lap and do not feed them outside of the designated feeding grounds. Tourists are generally welcomed by the islanders, who are responsible for caring for the cats – so play nice!

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2. Elephant Sanctuaries in Thailand

Elephants are a symbol of the country and it is estimated that 75% of elephants used for tourism (elephant rides, for example) in Thailand are taken from their natural habitat precisely for this purpose. A survey by the World Animal Foundation concluded that about 1,300 elephants live in terrible conditions, including deprivation of food and long working hours.

best places for animal lovers - elephants - thailand

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai

But the dream is not over! It is possible to have contact with elephants in Thailand in a non-exploitative way. To do so, you should look for elephant sanctuaries that work ethically. What does that mean? Well. for a place to be considered ethical, it is necessary for elephants to act as if in their natural habitat, to be free to eat and drink and to live without discomfort or injury. These places should not offer elephant rides or even have entertainment shows as these cause real distress to the gentle giants. Stay away from these places! You have to do your research to make sure that you’re visiting a real sanctuary. Real sanctuaries take in animals that have been abused and mistreated for years and will look after their rehabilitation without whips or chains.

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3. Golden Retriever Club of Scotland in Scotland

In 2016 an event for Golden Retriever enthusiasts was launched in Inverness Scotland. The first event hosted 188 hounds and that number almost doubled in the last 2 years, with 361 dogs in the last event in July of 2018.

best places for animal lovers - golden retriever club scotland

The event takes place annually on the outskirts of the ancestral city of the animals, where the first Golden Retriever was born in the middle of the 19th century. The event is open to people who want to visit, even if they do not bring their own dogs. This year, it is estimated that the festival had a thousand visitors. Dog parades, jokes, dances and dinners are all part of the event – you’d be barking mad to miss it!

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4. Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary in NY, USA

In New York there is a large shelter for rescued animals. The Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary takes care of about 300 animals. The sanctuary takes care of cows, turkeys, pigs, chickens, ducks, goats and rabbits.

best places for animal lovers - Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary in NY

Rescued animals are seen as friends and people can volunteer to help take care of them. The shelter also offers tours with the animals for those who just want to know more about the work done here. You are not allowed to feed them during visits.

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5. Whale watching in Sydney, Australia

Some people are fascinated by Sea World ‘s orca, dolphin and whale performances. However, Sea World is not ethical when it comes to looking after their animals. In addition to being kept in captivity in fairly small pools, they are animals that have been removed from their habitat for no reason other than tourism. There are much more ethical ways of observing marine animals. Such as enjoying a natural “show” that whales put on in their natural habitats.

best places for animal lovers - whale watching

Between May and November, humpback whales leave the Antarctic winter for northern Australia to have their babies. In Sydney Australia, there are several national parks to observe this migration, with viewpoints overlooking the ocean. It is also possible to book a cruise to see this beautiful process more closely. You can also see whales migrating in Seattle US, and Victoria and Vancouver Canada. In Santa Catarina, in the south of Brazil, it is also possible to observe this phenomenon at times throughout the year.

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6. Turtles on the beach in Mexico

In Mexico, thousands of turtles crawl onto the beach to lay their eggs. However, in this process, the hatchlings go through several difficulties that have lead to their near extinction. Dogs walking on the beach eat the eggs and some people even pick them up to sell to uninformed tourists.

best places for animal lovers - mexico turtles

In several Mexican beaches, such as Playa Azul and Acapulco , it is possible to volunteer to walk the beach and help turtle cubs be born and reach the sea safely. In the case of the Playa Azul, a party takes place every October in honour of the turtles.

Check out hostels in Mexico

7. Sacred cows in India

About 80% of India’s population is Hindu, a religion with about one billion believers who consider cows to be sacred. Because of this, it is very common in India to see cows roaming the cities, being fed and even worshipped publicly. They are prohibited from being in urban areas since 2003, for the risk of being hit by cars and hindering traffic. Even so, it is still possible to see some strolling through the cities.

India has laws in place that have increased the religious status of cattle, meaning that the cow considered purer than those of the higher castes. There are no laws against accidentally harming a cow in India, but the person who does so risks being lynched.

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8. Giant pandas in China

Because of the urban sprawl in China, giant panda’s habitat areas have been compromised and their way of life has become quite difficult for the species, even endangering their existence. To save them from extinction, China began a breeding process in captivity.

best places for animal lovers - pandas - china

You can visit the giant panda refuges and even volunteer to help care for these animals. The most famous of these is the refuge of Lougantai. Here, tourists can interact directly with the pandas, helping to feed them.

Check out hostels in China

9. Animal blessing ceremony in the Vatican

The Vatican organises a ceremony every year where the Pope or a cardinal bestows blessing on various types of animals brought to the country. Horses, chickens, ducks, goats, dogs, cats and other domestic animals are gathered in the square so that they can be blessed.

However, the date of this event is not fixed. In some years it is held in January, coinciding with the feast of St. Anthony (patron of livestock and domestic animals) and other years it happens on October 4th, World Animal Day.

Check out hostels in the Vatican

10. Llamas and alpacas in Peru

Docile and generally friendly animals, you will know if a llama / alpaca doesn’t like you: it will spit in your face. They live in the mountains in Peru , but you may also find them in Bolivia and northern Argentina. It is very easy to interact with them, but it is necessary to understand which situations are appropriate to interact with them and when you should leave them alone.

best places for animal lovers - alpaca - machu picchu

You’ll find llamas and alpacas grazing in the parks, roaming amongst ruins and markets freely and also decorated llamas and alpacas for photographs. As we have already mentioned, llamas are very quiet animals and therefore do not need to be drugged to interact with humans, but that does not mean that they like to sit around all day taking pictures with tourists, right? If you wish to interact with these animals, give preference to those who are walking freely. Pay attention to what the animal is doing and if it is open for you to approach it. We must always remember that we are the visitors and that any kind of interaction with animals has to be done with respect, prioritising their well-being and, of course, their safety.

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11. Emus National Park, Brazil

This environmental preservation and conservation unit in Goiás has about 500 kilometres of open area and self-guided trails. The park closed in 2017 for a few weeks due to a lack of staff maintenance and cleaning, but it has been up and running since December of the same year.

best places for animal lovers - ostrich - Emus National Park

As the name indicates, it is possible to see several emus in the park but visitors can also see foxes, maned wolves, and various types of birds. Definitely worth a visit for any nature enthusiast.

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12. Dolphins in nature reserves in Cancun

Playful, very docile and cuddly, it can be hard to open your eyes to the problems facing dolphins in many tourist attractions. About 59 countries keep these animals in captivity and many of them are cruelly captured to be sold to aquariums and places that use them for shows and other activities for tourists. In addition to being mistreated by being forced to repeat tricks, these animals do not fare well in pool water.

best places for animal lovers - dolphins - sea - cancun

If you want to see these beautiful, majestic giant fish then why not visit Cancun ? Nearby there is the Sian Ka’na Nature Reserve where you can spot dolphins in their natural habitat and without the cruelties that exist in aquariums and in places that allow you to ride on dolphins.

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13. Swimming with whale sharks in the Philippines or Australia

Are you scared? Don’t worry! You will not lose your arm with these guys. Ah, but are you worried about sustainable tourism? Still, don’t worry! It’s just about making good choices. One of the main attractions in the Philippines is the opportunity to swim with whale sharks. But there are places where the rules are followed and the activity is carried out naturally as well as places that are not very ethical.

best places for animal lovers - whale shark

The two main sites where activities take place is Oslob and Donsol. In the second, sightings of whale sharks are not guaranteed, precisely because they do everything ethically, letting the activity happen naturally. Meanwhile, in Oslob, sharks are attracted to plankton bought in bulk and rules of interaction with sharks are not respected.

Check out hostels in the Philippines

14. Monkeys in the Amazon Rainforest and Uganda

Monkeys are often victims of exploitative tourism, because they are intelligent and easily domesticated. They are used in performance shows, circuses and many zoos that have very poor conditions. It is very common for them to suffer ill-treatment in training and many have been caught illegally, so avoid this kind of attraction.

best places for animal lovers - Amazon Rainforest and Uganda

In Brazil it is possible to see dozens of species in the Amazon Rainforest. In Uganda, the most common are the orangutans and gorillas. Other countries like Costa Rica and Thailand also have opportunities to see several species of monkey in the wild. But you need to research well to make sure there is no exploitative tourism.

Check out hostels in Uganda

best places for animal lovers - monkeys - rainforest

15. Penguins on Isla Martillo

King Penguins and Penguins of Magellan go to Isla Martillo, an island in the Beagle Channel in Argentina, to mate between October and April every year. They are super-docile animals and like to interact with humans, so they will not be frightened by your presence.

best places for animal lovers - penguins

Check out hostels in Argentina

In spite of this, to maintain the preservation of the place and to not disturb the reproduction, both the contact and the number of people that can visit the island is quite limited. Book your tour in advance.

In any contact with animals, remember to always respect their natural habitat and try not to do anything that can cause stress to them.

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At the Dallas Zoo's Giants of the Savannah exhibit, visitors can hand-feed the giraffes.

Best Places to Interact With Animals in the U.S.

From the November/December 2010 issue of National Geographic Traveler

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Tampa, Florida Florida Aquarium

Skip the scuba certification. In Swim with the Fishes, you’re fitted with a small tank, regulator, mask, and flotation device that allow you to float on the surface of the 500,000-gallon coral reef exhibit to watch thousands of aquatic creatures, including moray eels, grouper, and a sea turtle. Ages 6 and older; $85 (includes admission).

Boston, Massachusetts New England Aquarium

Harbor seals love nothing more than fishsicles—dog toys and squid frozen together into blocks of ice—and a good water-spray massage from a hose. At Play with the Seals, go behind the scenes of their outdoor habitat, meant to simulate a rocky New England beach, with marine mammal trainers to help entertain the pups. Ages 9 and older; $45.

Chicago, Illinois Shedd Aquarium

Pull on a pair of waders and step onto an underwater ledge in the Beluga Encounter Habitat for an intimate look at these highly social creatures, also known as white whales or sea canaries, so-called for their high-pitched twitter. Touch the whales’ skin, try out a few training techniques, and go home with a framed photo to remember it all. Ages 10 and older; $250.

Monterey, California Ventana Wildlife Society

Spend the day at a remote base camp high in the Big Sur wilderness—one of five condor release sites in the United States—helping the staff to collect data and track California condors as they gracefully soar above the jaw-dropping ocean views 2,800 feet below. $250.

Wyoming Yellowstone Association Institute

Wolves are best observed in the quiet backdrop of winter. Join a team of naturalists in the three-day Winter Wolf Discovery Lodging and Learning program to snowshoe in the Northern Range of Yellowstone National Park, often called the American Serengeti because of its abundance of wildlife. Ages 12 and older; from $650.

Texas Dallas Zoo

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In the wild, giraffes graze on acacia twigs, grasses, and fruit—as much as 75 pounds a day—but at the new 11-acre Giants of the Savannah exhibit, where visitors can hand-feed them at eye level, their favorite snack is romaine leaves. $5.

California San Diego Zoo

Scratch a rhino’s belly, hug a flamingo, and get a lesson from the trainers on how to talk to some of the animals on this VIP Backstage Pass tour of one of the largest zoos in the country. Perks include a professional photo session with a cheetah and reserved show seating. Ages 5 and older; $99.

New Orleans, Louisiana Audubon Insectarium

Touch arthropods in a re-created entomologists’ field camp, “shrink” to bug size to explore the subterranean world, and dine on insect specialties like Cajun-fried crickets. $15; $10 for ages 12 and under.

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30 Places to See Animals in Central Florida

From A to Z – aquariums to zoos – and everything in between, it is WILD how many different places you can interact with animals in Central Florida.

You can visit a farm, do goat yoga, feed a giraffe, cuddle a lamb or baby chicks, go on a drive-through safari, explore an aquarium, and learn about animals in Tampa, Orlando, Lakeland, and across Florida. We can help you find a petting zoo near you, a farm near you, or safari near you, even pick out a place to take a day trip for a full day of family fun.

The places listed below will give you and your kiddos an up-close and personal experience with whatever kind of animal you adore. There are many different options so we’ve broken it down by the type of animal adventure you might be searching for.

Zoos, Safaris, + Wild Animal Encounters

We are lucky to live in a place where many people vacation and Central Florida has an abundance of attractions where you can get up close and personal with wild animals. Drive-thru safaris, private tours, exotic animal feedings, zoo programs, and more. Whether you want to zipline over alligators, pet a llama, hold a sloth, or feed a giraffe, we can help you find zoos and safaris in Florida. Safaris and Zoos near you include:

Safari Wilderness (Lakeland, FL)
Giraffe Ranch (Dade City / Tampa, FL)
Wild Florida (Kenansville / Orlando, FL)
ZooTampa at Lowry Park (Tampa, FL)
Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens (Sanford / Orlando, FL)
Gatorland (Orlando, FL)
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
See the full list of Zoos, Safaris, and Animal Encounters in Central Florida

Kid-Friendly Farms and Petting Zoos

We compiled a list of petting zoos and farms in Central Florida that are either open to the public or take appointments for visitors. You can meet farm animals like goats, cows, pigs, sheep, rabbits, chickens and horses, and even find some exotic animals like alpacas, llamas, camels, and peacocks. Farms and Petting Zoos near you include:

Bell Family Farm and Apiary (Polk City / Lakeland, FL)
Old McMicky’s Farm (Odessa / Tampa, FL)
Horse Power for Kids (Tampa, FL)
Hunsader Farms (Bradenton, FL)
Jenny’s Petting Zoo (Wimauma, FL)
R & R Ranch (Lithia / Brandon, FL)
Raprager Farm (Odessa / Tampa, FL)
Countryside Farm (Lakeland, FL)
Roos and Coos (Plant City, FL)
Black Rock Farms (Dover / Brandon, FL)
See the full list of Farms and Petting Zoos in Central Florida

Aquariums in Tampa, Orlando, + Central Florida

Prefer air conditioning and animals that live in the ocean? Central Florida is home to multiple aquariums and animal rescue hospitals where you can spend your day watching sea life including dolphins, sharks, rays, fish, lobster, jellyfish, crustaceans, and more. Aquariums near you include:

The Florida Aquarium (Tampa, FL)
Clearwater Marine Aquarium (Clearwater, FL)
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium (Longboat Key / Sarasota, FL)
SeaLife Aquarium (Orlando, FL)
Manatee Viewing Center (Apollo Beach / Tampa, FL)
See the full list of Aquariums in Central Florida

Goat Yoga in Lakeland + Polk County

Roll out your mat and get ready to love on some goats as you exercise and enjoy farm yoga. Beginners are welcome at goat yoga sessions, this is a fun opportunity to play with goats and maybe even have them climb on your back! Find an upcoming session of goat yoga in Lakeland + Polk County at one of these farms:

Bell Family Farm (Polk City, FL)
The Little Yogi (Plant City, FL)
Grady Goat Yoga (Thonotosassa / Tampa, FL)

Places to see animals in nature

Zoos and aquariums aren’t the only place to see live animals. With a little planning and a little luck, you can also interact with animals in the wild. Options include:

Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, FL – a great place to see alligators and a large variety of birds
Explore a river or the coastline in a canoe or kayak – we’ve got a list of places you can rent canoes or book a kayak tour {we recommend a tour, guides know the best places to spot animals}
For a truly unique way to see marine life, book a clear kayak tour – you can see manatees in the springs, dolphins and sting rays off the beach, or even bioluminescent when you do a night kayak paddle
Visit Lake Morton in Lakeland – you’ll see an abundance of swans and other birds

Get on out there and go wild!

100+ Things to Do with Kids

Check out our Ultimate List of Things to Do with Kids in Lakeland + Polk County to find indoor fun, outdoor fun, free things to do, seasonal activities, and more.

Surprisingly, they aren’t all in Disney’s Animal Kingdom…

Walt Disney held a special place in his heart for nature. In a way, he invented the concept of nature documentaries as we know them in his True-Life Adventures series, and though he never got to see his vision brought to life, he held steadfast to the dream that Walt Disney World in Florida would be a place where guests could experience animals up close. From the first inception of this vision in the now-abandoned Discovery Island , to the genesis of Disney’s Animal Kingdom as we know it, love for nature remains a central tenet of the Disney experience.

Whether you want to learn more about animals from abroad or explore Florida’s native wildlife, here are the top ten spots we found at the Most Magical Place on Earth to get up close to nature… Oh, and #10 is one of Disney’s best kept secrets!

1. Kilimanjaro Safari

Image: Disney

'Across the board, fans agree that Disney’s Animal Kingdom is one of the company’s finest achievements, and it’s sad that many casual visitors miss it entirely. If you love animals, there is no better place to visit in Disney’s Animal Kingdom than Kilimanjaro Safaris, and you never know what you might see on this spectacular safari.

The attraction itself is a marvel of Imagineering, taking up almost 20% of the space in the park. Many guests never realize the safari trucks are free-moving vehicles or spot the clever ways Disney masterfully sectioned out its sprawling savannah. On one journey you might get to see the preserve’s resident lions napping happily on their own “Pride Rock” (the rocks are air-conditioned if you’ve ever wondered why the lions like it so much). On another, you might get to see the savannah’s newest baby elephants or giraffes—a surprised group of guests recently saw one of the park’s mama giraffes give birth when she decided she didn’t want to leave the guest area! Or maybe you’ll see something more mundane, like daddy hippo pooping frothing-poop-fountains onto the head of Hippo Jr. who was just chilling behind him—that happened to me once. For real. It wasn’t as majestic as a mama giraffe giving birth or as cute as a baby elephant learning how to walk, but it sure held the element of surprise. Nature is truly magical.

Whatever you end up finding on Kilimanjaro Safaris, it will always be a new experience. If you want the best chance of seeing the animals active, try visiting early in the morning or right around dusk.

2. Walt Disney World waterways

Bird on post in front of Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake

Walt Disney World’s waterways are one of the best places to see local Floridian wildlife within the resort. While you can experience them on some level during short trips on Friendship Boats and the Magic Kingdom ferry, the best way to explore them is with a boat rental.

The boat rentals aren’t cheap, but they are well worth it. The type of boat will determine how far you can stray from your rental dock, and the boat choices include kayaks, Sea Raycer speed boats, and family-sized pontoons. While you can rent boats at the Yacht and Beach Club, most guests say Bay Lake is the best place to explore. With a boat rental, you not only get to explore Disney’s winding waterways, it is also the only way to get close to Bay Lake’s islands, including the aforementioned and long-defunct Discovery Island. Birds tend to be the most common sight on Disney’s waterways, but other denizens include turtles, local fish, and even the rare alligator sunning on the shore (heed all safety guidelines and warning signs regarding these and never feed them).

3. The Seas with Nemo and Friends

The Seas with Nemo and Friends kids pointing at fish from clamshell cars

Disney’s Animal Kingdom isn’t the only park where nature is highlighted. The Seas with Nemo and Friends (formerly The Living Seas) at Epcot hosts a 5.7-million-gallon aquarium home to a wide range of fish and sea mammals. Children can hardly contain themselves when they see their favorite characters from Finding Nemo brought to life surrounded by schools of real fish, sea turtles, and even sharks. The Sea Base exploration area holds hours of delights for kids and adults, where guests can learn about conservation, marine biology, and more about the wonders of the oceans.

The Seas houses an active dolphin-research program, and if you are willing to pay for an upcharge, guests can even participate in a Dolphins in Depth 3-hour encounter . Also, don’t miss the Seas’ rescued manatees. For such adorably lumbering animals, they move with a grace that is truly beautiful, and if you get a chance, it is well worth hearing their stories from an expert cast member.

Jett is a writer and lifelong Disney addict based in Florida. She loves vacation hacks and exploring Disney parks through lenses less-explored, especially with humor. When she and her husband aren't messing with stormtroopers in Galaxy's Edge, you'll most likely find her in Epcot, her favorite park.

If you enjoyed this article, you can follow Jett on YouTube (My Kingdom for a Mouse - Glimpses of Disney), Instagram (@mykingdomforamouse), Facebook , or Twitter (@invadervega).

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This non-profit animal sanctuary provides a place for abused and unwanted animals to live. Animals You May See: lions, tigers, cougars, leopards, wolves, bears, and other animals. Location: 8424 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center, OH 44401. Website: Noah's Lost Ark. Safari Adventures Animal Park
30 Places to See Animals in Central Florida
From A to Z - aquariums to zoos - and everything in between, it is WILD how many different places you can interact with animals in Central Florida.. You can visit a farm, do goat yoga, feed a giraffe, cuddle a lamb or baby chicks, go on a drive-through safari, explore an aquarium, and learn about animals in Tampa, Orlando, Lakeland, and across Florida.
6 Best Places to See Animals in North Carolina
Lazy 5 Ranch, Mooresville. Lazy 5 Ranch in Mooresville, NC, is another privately owned and operated exotic animal farm. It is home to over 750 animals that come from 6 different continents including zebras, giraffes, camels, lemurs and more. Visitors get a chance to see the animals up close from the comfort of their vehicle or from a horse ...
The 10 Best Places at Walt Disney World to Visit if You Love Animals
Oh, and #10 is one of Disney's best kept secrets! 1. Kilimanjaro Safari. Image: Disney. 'Across the board, fans agree that Disney's Animal Kingdom is one of the company's finest achievements, and it's sad that many casual visitors miss it entirely. If you love animals, there is no better place to visit in Disney's Animal Kingdom than ...