ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a must-visit destination for families in the Tampa area. With its diverse array of wildlife and thrilling attractions, the zoo offers an unforgettable adventure for all ages. Visitors can witness the breathtaking Macaw Flyover, interact with Florida-native species, and explore adrenaline-pumping rides. But beyond the excitement, ZooTampa is also dedicated to conservation efforts, housing rehabilitation centers for endangered animals and providing educational opportunities to foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a trip to this renowned zoo is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Key Points
- ZooTampa at Lowry Park offers entry tickets starting from $47.95 per person.
- Tickets are valid for one day from first activation and offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The zoo features interactive experiences, adrenaline-pumping rides, and opportunities to observe and touch various animals.
- ZooTampa is dedicated to conservation efforts, including rehabilitation and release of native species like the Florida panther.
- The zoo is accessible, with wheelchair access, sensory-friendly experiences, and bilingual signage and staff.
Overview of ZooTampa
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a renowned family attraction that has consistently been voted Tampa’s Best and earned the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award 11 times.
Offering unforgettable adventures for all ages, the zoo provides up-close encounters with wildlife from around the world and showcases Florida’s native species.
Guests can enjoy amazing interactions with animals during chats and wildlife connections, as well as the incredible Macaw Flyover and exciting rides like Expedition Wild Africa and Roaring Spring.
As a champion for wildlife conservation, ZooTampa is dedicated to protecting endangered and threatened species, and it’s home to one of the nation’s top facilities for caring for sick and injured Florida panthers.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Visitors of all ages can enjoy a variety of family-friendly attractions at ZooTampa, from up-close animal encounters to thrilling rides.
The zoo’s lineup includes opportunities to interact with wildlife during educational chats and immersive experiences, as well as adrenaline-pumping rides that transport guests to exotic landscapes.
Highlights include:
- The Incredible Macaw Flyover, where guests can witness the stunning aerial display of these vibrant birds
- Expedition Wild Africa, an adventure through lush African landscapes
- Roaring Spring, a wet and wild splash zone
- Up-close encounters with Florida-native species like manatees and panthers at the zoo’s conservation centers
With these exciting offerings, ZooTampa delivers unforgettable experiences for the whole family.
Up-Close Animal Encounters
At ZooTampa, guests can get up-close and personal with a diverse array of wildlife from around the world through engaging animal chats and immersive wildlife connections.
From majestic African lions to playful river otters, visitors have the opportunity to observe and learn about these magnificent creatures up-close.
During interactive presentations, guests can witness the animals’ natural behaviors and even touch some of them, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Whether it’s feeding giraffes or observing the Macaw Flyover, these one-of-a-kind experiences make ZooTampa a must-visit destination for families seeking unforgettable animal encounters.
With knowledgeable staff on hand to share fascinating facts, guests leave with a newfound respect for the zoo’s conservation efforts and the creatures that call it home.
Conservation Efforts
Championing wildlife conservation, ZooTampa is dedicated to protecting endangered and threatened species, housing one of only four manatee rehabilitation centers in the U.S. and the number one facility for caring for sick and injured Florida panthers.
As a leader in conservation efforts, the zoo focuses on:
- Rehabilitating and releasing native species back into the wild
- Educating visitors on the importance of preserving natural habitats
- Supporting global research and breeding programs to boost population numbers
- Advocating for policy changes to protect vulnerable wildlife
Through these initiatives, ZooTampa is making a tangible impact on the long-term survival of Florida’s diverse and delicate ecosystem.
Pricing and Booking
Admission to ZooTampa at Lowry Park starts from $47.95 per person, with the option to reserve tickets and pay later.
Visitors can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the tickets are valid for one day from first activation.
The zoo also offers wheelchair accessibility, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.
Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, as it allows visitors to skip the lines and dive straight into the exciting attractions and adventures.
Whether you’re planning a family outing or a fun day with friends, ZooTampa’s flexible pricing and booking options make it easy to enjoy all the park has to offer.
Directions to ZooTampa
Getting to ZooTampa at Lowry Park is easy, with the zoo located just a short drive from downtown Tampa. Visitors can access the zoo by taking Interstate 275 to Exit 44 for West Sligh Avenue, then following the signs to the main entrance.
Ample parking is available on-site, making it convenient for guests to arrive and start their zoo adventure.
The zoo also offers several transportation options:
- Complimentary shuttle service from select hotels
- Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft
- Public transportation via HART bus routes
With its central location and accessible transportation, ZooTampa makes it simple for visitors to plan their day and enjoy all the wildlife and attractions the park has to offer.
Unforgettable Zoo Experiences
From the moment visitors step into ZooTampa at Lowry Park, they’ll embark on a captivating journey filled with unforgettable encounters and immersive experiences.
Whether it’s getting up close with majestic Florida panthers, witnessing the incredible Macaw Flyover, or exploring the wild wonders of Expedition Wild Africa, there’s something for all to enjoy.
The park’s dedicated conservation efforts, including its role as one of the top facilities for caring for sick and injured Florida panthers, add an inspiring depth to the experience.
With exciting rides, engaging animal chats, and the chance to discover native Florida species, ZooTampa promises an adventure that will leave lasting memories for visitors of all ages.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
How is ZooTampa at Lowry Park designed to be accessible and inclusive for all visitors? The park provides wheelchair access throughout the grounds, enabling guests with mobility challenges to fully explore the exhibits and attractions.
Plus, the admission tickets are priced affordably, ensuring the zoo experience is accessible to families and individuals of diverse economic backgrounds.
ZooTampa’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity is further demonstrated through:
- Sensory-friendly experiences for guests with autism or other sensory needs
- Bilingual signage and staff to accommodate Spanish-speaking visitors
- Designated quiet zones for guests seeking a calmer environment
- Complimentary admission for children under 2 and discounted rates for seniors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Into the Zoo?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks into ZooTampa at Lowry Park. There are picnic areas available for guests to enjoy their outside items during their visit.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Local Residents?
Yes, ZooTampa at Lowry Park offers discounts for local residents. Pinellas and Hillsborough County residents can take advantage of special pricing, including discounted admission tickets and annual passes. Visitors should check the zoo’s website for the latest local resident offers.
What Is the Policy for Service Animals?
ZooTampa welcomes service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Guests with service animals should inform staff upon arrival to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. Reasonable accommodations are made for guests with service animals.
Are Professional Cameras Allowed Inside the Zoo?
ZooTampa allows visitors to bring professional cameras inside, but they require a permit for use. Guests can inquire about the permit policy at the entrance. Photography is generally permitted throughout the zoo, with some exceptions for certain animal exhibits.
Is There a Map Available to Help Navigate the Zoo?
Yes, ZooTampa at Lowry Park provides visitors with a detailed map to help them navigate the zoo’s many exhibits and attractions. The map highlights key areas, animal habitats, and points of interest to enhance the zoo experience.
Recap
ZooTampa at Lowry Park offers an unforgettable family adventure. With an array of captivating wildlife, thrilling rides, and educational experiences, the zoo delivers an immersive day of discovery.
Dedicated to conservation, ZooTampa provides accessibility features and affordable admission, making it the perfect destination to connect with the natural world.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping rides or up-close animal encounters, ZooTampa promises an unforgettable experience for all.
