Zoo Miami also goes by the name Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens and is the biggest as well as oldest zoological garden within Florida. Additionally, this is the only sub-tropical zoo within the continental United States. Like many zoos, the Zoo Miami put animals from similar geographic areas together. They go a step above and instead of separating all animals, species that can peacefully live together in the wild share exhibits. The zoo was established in 1948 and has 750 acres of land with over 500 animal species, over 1,000 plant species, and over 100 special exhibits.

These animals include amphibians, birds, mammals, and reptiles divided among Florida: Mission Everglades, Dr. Wilde’s World, Wings of Asia Aviary, Critter Connection, and Amazon & Beyond.

Go on a special tour like a VIP tour or Behind-the-Scenes tour. Or enjoy Expedition: Wildlife, which is an in-depth five-hour tour. Some of the highlights in terms of plants include the Asian Trail, the Baobab tree, rainbow eucalyptus, the Hong Kong orchid tree, the silk floss tree, and the gumbo limbo tree.

Your kids will love meeting the Zoo Squad, the characters at the zoo that include a black rhino, giraffe, red-billed oxpecker, and crocodile. Other activities include rides, shows, feedings, and kid zones.

12400 SW 152 St., Miami, FL, Phone: 305-251-0400, Map

Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).

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Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.