Animal museums in Florida

Gatorland, located in Florida, is a 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve. It was established in 1949 by Owen Godwin and remains privately owned by his family. The park is home to a variety of attractions and wildlife, making it a unique destination for tourists.

SeaWorld Orlando is a unique combination of a theme park and marine zoological park. It is situated in Unincorporated Orange County, Florida, close to Orlando. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the Orlando area. The park offers a variety of attractions, including rides, animal exhibits, and live shows, providing a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Lion Country Safari offers a unique experience where visitors can observe wildlife from the comfort of their own vehicles. This safari-like zoo is conveniently located near Loxahatchee Groves in Palm Beach County, Florida, making it an accessible destination for tourists in the area.

Flamingo Gardens is a botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary that spans 60 acres. It is situated in Davie, Florida, United States. This tropical oasis is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a unique destination for nature lovers. The gardens are open to the public for a fee.

Zoo Miami, also known as Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens, is a prominent zoo located in the city of Miami, Florida. It is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation.

The Ernest Hemingway House, located in Key West, Florida, is a significant tourist attraction. This is the house where the renowned author Ernest Hemingway resided from 1931 to 1939. During his time here, he penned some of his most famous works, including 'The Snows of Kilimanjaro' and 'The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber'.

The Glazer Children's Museum is a non-profit institution situated in the heart of downtown Tampa, Florida. It is conveniently located next to the Tampa Museum of Art and Curtis Hixon Park, and is also adjacent to the Tampa Riverwalk. This museum is a part of the Waterfront Arts District, making it a significant part of the city's cultural landscape.

Zoo Miami, also known as Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens, is a prominent zoo located in the city of Miami in South Florida, USA. It is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is home to more than 3,000 animals representing over 500 different species. The zoo's history dates back to 1948 when the first animal exhibitions began at the then Crandon Park Zoo on Key Biscayne Island off the coast of Miami.

Take an airboat tour through the Everglades and see alligators, snakes, exotic parrots and plenty of other rare animals!

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a unique butterfly zoo situated on Duval Street in Key West, Florida. This location offers visitors the opportunity to experience a diverse range of butterfly species in a controlled environment.

The Florida Aquarium spans an area of nearly 2,300 square meters and is home to nearly 20,000 aquatic plants and animals. These species are not only native to Florida but also come from various parts of the world. This diversity offers visitors a chance to learn about and appreciate the rich biodiversity of aquatic life.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium, located in Clearwater, Florida, is a non-profit organization that focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sick and injured marine animals. The aquarium also places a strong emphasis on public education, conservation, and research. Visitors to the aquarium can learn about the various marine life and the efforts being made to protect and preserve them.

Biscayne National Park is a unique destination located in South Florida. The park extends over Biscayne Bay and includes the northernmost islands of the Florida Keys. This location offers a diverse range of ecosystems and landscapes, making it a fascinating place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Butterfly World, situated in Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek, Florida, is a unique attraction that opened its doors to the public in 1988. As the largest butterfly park in the world and the first of its kind in the Western Hemisphere, it offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to observe and interact with a diverse array of butterfly species.

The SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology, located in Orlando, Florida, was recognized as Central Florida's largest natural history museum. This museum was a significant attraction for those interested in natural history and osteology.

Zoo Tampa, originally known as Lowry Park Zoo, has a rich history dating back to 1930. Located in Tampa, Florida, the zoo has grown from a small collection of native animals to a large, modern facility that houses a diverse range of species. The zoo's name was changed to ZooTampa at Lowry Park in 2018, reflecting its evolution and growth over the years.

The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, opened on May 20, 1893, is one of Florida's oldest continuously running attractions. This historic park has been a staple of Florida's tourism industry for over a century, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore a diverse range of wildlife in a well-preserved and engaging environment.

The Museum of Discovery and Science is a prominent institution located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It is dedicated to the exploration and understanding of science, making it an ideal destination for those with a keen interest in the subject. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and interactive displays that cater to all ages, providing an engaging and educational experience for visitors.

Jungle Island, originally named Parrot Jungle, is a zoo situated on Watson Island in Miami, Florida. The zoo was initially located in the town of Pinecrest, just east of Downtown Miami, and was known as Parrot Jungle Island. In 2007, the park was renamed Jungle Island. The zoo offers a unique experience of free-flying birds and other exotic animals in captivity.

The Naples Zoo, also known as Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, is a 43-acre zoo and historic botanical garden. The zoo is home to about 70 species, although not all of these are on display at any given time. The main path is about a mile long and winds past the main animal exhibits through the tropical garden first planted in 1919. The zoo is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), and is an institutional member of the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK).

Monkey Jungle is a unique park spanning 0.35 km², established by Joseph and Grace DuMond in 1933. The park serves as a study and visitor center, providing a semi-free environment for monkeys. This unique setup allows visitors to observe monkeys in a setting that closely mimics their natural habitat, offering a unique and educational experience.

Big Cat Rescue Corp., also known as BCR, is an animal sanctuary located in Hillsborough County, Florida, United States. The sanctuary is dedicated to the rescue and housing of exotic cats, as well as the rehabilitation of injured or orphaned native wild cats. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about and interact with a variety of exotic and native cat species in a safe and controlled environment.

Hillsborough River State Park is situated in the northeast corner of Hillsborough County, Florida, close to Zephyrhills. Its popularity among visitors is largely due to its convenient location near the city of Tampa. This makes it an easily accessible destination for those residing in or visiting the city.

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a Florida State Park situated in Fort Lauderdale, nestled between the Intracoastal Waterway and SR A1A. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it an ideal destination for both nature lovers and city dwellers.

The Dolphin Research Center, located on Grassy Key, Florida, is a dolphinarium that spans an impressive 8400 square meters. This expansive area serves as a home to dolphins and California sea lions, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to observe these marine creatures in a safe and controlled environment.

The Florida Museum of Natural History is the official natural history museum of the state, sponsored and funded by the Florida government. This means that it is a significant institution in the state, offering a wealth of knowledge and exhibits on natural history. Visitors can expect to see a wide range of exhibits, from fossils to flora and fauna, all under one roof.

Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park is located in Flagler Beach, Florida. It is situated three miles west of Flagler Beach on CR 2001, south of SR 100. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a botanical garden and arboretum that spans across 10 acres. It specializes in plants from the area where it is located. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in botany and the local flora of Sarasota, Florida.

Lake Kissimmee State Park is a Florida State Park situated to the east of Lake Wales. It spans an impressive area of 24 km, offering a vast expanse of natural beauty for visitors to explore.

The Palm Beach Zoo Conservation Society, located at Dreher Park in West Palm Beach, is a non-profit organization that provides a home to hundreds of animals. Many of these animals are endangered species, and they all live within a lush, tropical habitat that spans 23 acres. The zoo is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and its mission is to inspire people to act on behalf of wildlife and the natural world.

White Oak Conservation is a vast 17,000-acre conservation center located in northeastern Florida. It is a part of Walter Conservation and is dedicated to the conservation of endangered and threatened species. The center is home to a variety of species including rhinoceros, okapi, bongo antelope, zebras, dama gazelles, and cheetahs. The conservation efforts at White Oak are part of a larger initiative by the Walter family to conserve rare species and wild places around the world.

The Tree Hill Nature Center, located in Jacksonville, Florida, is a non-profit organization and wilderness preserve. Its primary purpose is to offer an educational experience for visitors, allowing them to appreciate and learn about the natural environment. The center is home to a variety of sensitive plants and animals, and it plays a crucial role in preserving the urban wilderness area from surrounding development.

The Tallahassee Museum is situated on a 52-acre property between Lakes Bradford and Hiawatha in Leon County, Florida. The museum was relocated to this scenic location in 1962, providing visitors with a beautiful natural backdrop for their visit.

The Gumbo Limbo Environmental Complex, also known as the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, is a nature center located in Boca Raton, Florida. It is operated by the city of Boca Raton in conjunction with the Gumbo Limbo Coastal Stewards and the Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District. The center is situated on twenty acres of protected barrier island, between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean.

The Loggerhead Marinelife Center, situated in Loggerhead Park, Juno Beach, Florida, serves as a hub for sea turtle research, rehabilitation, education, and conservation. Visitors can learn about the center's efforts to protect ocean ecosystems, particularly focusing on threatened and endangered sea turtles. The center's facilities include a sea turtle hospital, a research laboratory, and exhibit areas featuring live sea turtles and other coastal creatures.

The park is recognized as one of the prime locations in the state to observe manatees. Visitors have the unique opportunity to get close to these gentle giants through a floating observatory, providing an intimate and educational experience.

The Emerald Coast Science Center (ECSC) is a hands-on science discovery center situated in Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa County, Florida. This center provides an interactive and engaging environment for visitors to explore and learn about various scientific concepts and phenomena.

The Clewiston Museum is situated at 109 Central Avenue in Clewiston, Florida. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient spot for tourists to explore the rich history and culture of the local area.

Morningside Nature Center is a large nature park spanning 416 acres. It is situated in Gainesville, within Alachua County in the state of Florida. The park is managed and overseen by the City of Gainesville, ensuring its preservation and maintenance.

The Volusia County Marine Science Center, located in Ponce Inlet, Volusia County, Florida, is a museum dedicated to marine science and natural history. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about the marine ecosystem and the various species that inhabit it.

The Center for Great Apes is a sanctuary for great apes, situated to the east of Wauchula, Florida. This sanctuary provides a safe haven for orangutans and chimpanzees that have been rescued or retired from various sectors such as the entertainment industry, research, or the exotic pet trade. It is a place where these animals can live out their lives with dignity and care.

The Gulf Breeze Zoo, located in Woodlawn Beach, Florida, is a sprawling 50-acre zoo that is home to over 900 exotic animals. Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of species, including rhinos, hippos, Western lowland gorillas, and orangutans. The zoo provides an opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures, making it a unique and memorable experience for all ages.

The Key West Aquarium, located in Key West, Florida, is the only public aquarium in the area. This unique feature makes it a notable destination for tourists interested in marine life and aquatic exhibits.

The St. Augustine Aquarium, which opened its doors in 2016, is situated at 2045 Fl-16, St. Augustine, Florida. This public aquarium is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique opportunity to explore marine life.

The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, located in Key West, is a natural history museum. It provides an opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the unique ecosystem of the region. The center is dedicated to educating the public about the importance of preserving the natural environment of the Florida Keys.

The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a sprawling 116-acre zoo and botanical garden located in Sanford, just north of Orlando, Florida. This expansive location offers a wide variety of wildlife and plant life for visitors to explore and enjoy.

The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, located on the main campus of Santa Fe College in Gainesville, Florida, spans across 10 acres. This unique facility is not just a zoo, but also a training ground for future zookeepers. It's a place where visitors can observe a variety of animals while also learning about the important work that goes into their care and conservation.

Reptile World Serpentarium is a unique reptile zoo located in St. Cloud, Osceola County, Florida. This destination offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about a wide variety of reptiles in a safe and educational environment.

Brevard Zoo is situated in the city of Melbourne, in the eastern part of Florida, United States. It is approximately 60 kilometers northwest of Orlando. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting Florida, especially those staying in or around Orlando.

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is a unique institution dedicated to the comprehensive study of seashells, conchology, and malacology. This includes the paleontological and archeological/anthropological aspects of shell study. The museum provides a deep dive into the world of shells, offering visitors a chance to explore and learn about this fascinating subject in a detailed and engaging manner.

The Brevard Museum of History & Natural Science is situated at 2201 Michigan Avenue, Cocoa, Florida. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient starting point for your exploration of the region's history and natural science.

The South Florida Museum, situated in Bradenton, Florida, is a unique institution that focuses on the natural and cultural history of the Florida Gulf Coast. This museum offers a comprehensive view of Florida's history, from prehistoric times to the present day. It provides an opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich and diverse history of the region, exploring the various aspects of its natural and cultural heritage.

The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) is a globally recognized authority that regulates rod fishing. It is also responsible for the most significant global record fishing. This means that the IGFA sets the standards for fishing techniques, nomenclature, and codes related to sport fishing. As a visitor, you will have the opportunity to learn about these standards and the history of sport fishing.

The Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory (GSML) is a non-profit marine research and education organization that also operates as a public aquarium. It is located in Panacea, Florida, and was established in 1963. The laboratory was initially a marine specimen company primarily supplying scientists, but it has since evolved into a significant center for marine research and education. It is a place where visitors can learn about marine life and the importance of marine conservation.

The Marco Island Historical Museum is a history museum located on Marco Island, in Collier County, Florida. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of the region, providing a comprehensive understanding of its past.

The Sandoway Discovery Center, originally known as the J. B. Evans House, is a historic house situated at 142 South Ocean Boulevard in Delray Beach, Florida. This landmark retains its essential historic architectural integrity and is a significant part of Delray Beach's history.

The Forest Capital State Museum is a spacious 13-acre Florida State Park, conveniently located just a mile south of Perry on US 19 / US 98. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists traveling through the area.

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a unique blend of a botanical garden and a zoo, situated in the northern part of Florida, USA. This location offers a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, while the garden showcases a wide array of plant species from all continents.

Jonathan Dickinson State Park is a historic site and state park located in Martin County, Florida, nestled between Hobe Sound and Tequesta. This park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a fascinating destination for visitors.

The Museum of Dinosaurs and Ancient Cultures is situated at 250 West Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, Florida. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient spot for tourists who are interested in exploring the world of dinosaurs and ancient human cultures.

Polk's Nature Discovery Center is situated in the Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida. This location is not only a hub for nature enthusiasts but also a place where visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna. The center is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Florida.

The Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium is situated on a 105-acre property. It features a natural history museum with live native animals and exhibits about the animals, plants, and environment of Southwest Florida. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the local flora and fauna.

Gulf World Marine Park, a dolphinarium situated in Panama City Beach, Florida, has been welcoming visitors since 1970. This long-standing establishment offers a unique opportunity to interact with and learn about a variety of marine life, including the rare rough-toothed dolphins.

The Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center is a marine life nature center that spans 57 acres. It is located on Hutchinson Island in Stuart, Florida, nestled between the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean. The center provides a unique opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse marine life and ecosystems of the region.

The Apalachicola Maritime Museum is situated in the city of Apalachicola, within Franklin County, Florida. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich maritime history of the region.

The Miami Seaquarium, an American oceanarium, is situated in Florida, specifically in Miami-Dade County on Virginia Key Island. It was opened in 1955 and has since become the primary facility of its kind in the Miami area. This makes it a significant destination for tourists interested in marine life and oceanariums.