Last Updated on August 13, 2023
The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Sanford, Florida, offers a diverse range of over 350 animals representing 100 different species from around the world.
Visitors can find something new and exciting at every turn. The Sanford zoo is home to everything from African elephants to Australian birds.
The zoo also has various animal encounters, education programs, and special events year-round you won’t want to miss
In addition, the botanical gardens feature over 500 different species of plants and trees, providing a tranquil place for visitors to explore and learn about horticulture.
As a not-for-profit organization, the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Garden is a leader in conservation.
From the Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash ground to the zip lines and the butterfly gardens to the reptile house, this wildlife park has come a long way from its humble beginnings as the Sanford Zoo.
They also offer a miniature train ride, a fantastic gift shop, and those ultra-cool Mold-A-Matic wax machines.
Don’t miss the giraffes, black bears, zebras, Indian rhinos, and other residents.
If you work up an appetite or want to stay hydrated, enjoy lunch at Graze Kitchen or grab a quick bite or beverage at the snack bar.
It’s a great way to spend a day when you are in the Orlando area.
If you’d like to read more about the history of the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, check out our article on Things to do in Sanford, Florida.
Central Florida Zoo Educational Events
World Rhino Day
September 23, 2023, from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm.
Celebrate PJ, the Zoo’s greater one-horned Indian rhino, as well as all five species around the world.
Help support rhino conservation by working to save these incredible animals from extinction by participating in different activities. Enjoy “Keeper Chats” to learn more.
This event is included in general Zoo admission.
Bat Appreciation Day
October 14, 2023, from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm.
Bats are a vital part of ecosystems around the world. From pollination to eating mosquitoes, these incredible flying mammals are essential to our planet and need our protection.
Games, crafts, and activities will make learning to appreciate bats lots of fun! This event is included in general Zoo admission.
Central Florida Zoo Fundraising Golf Event
Enjoy a day on the links to support the animals and mission of the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens.
Date: Friday, October 6th, 2023
Time: 9:00 am, Shotgun Start
Location: The Club at Venetian Bay, 63 N. Airport Rd., New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
Includes:
- 18 holes of championship golf
- Souvenir gift bag
- Breakfast/tailgate party
- Lunch
- Wine pull
- 50/50 raffle and more!
For more information about the Central Florida Zoo, visit www.centralfloridazoo.org.
Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens Address: 3755 W. Seminole Blvd., Sanford, FL 32771
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