If you happen to be spending some time in Miami, and want something different to do, then a trip to a zoo is always an interesting day out, and Miami’s ‘Metrozoo’ is no exception. It was ranked top in the ‘Top 10 Zoos in the Country’, according to ‘Travel and Leisure Magazine', as well as being called 'Miami's Best Attraction' by South Florida Parenting Magazine. It is open every day of the year, including holidays, and with more than 900 wild animals without cages, you will be able to see animals living in conditions which closely resemble their natural habitats. These large, open air exhibits allow you to view the endangered wildlife at close range, as if you are on a safari. Altogether you can see over 1,700 animals and 346 species.
The zoo itself stands on a 740-acre site, of which about 300 acres have been developed. Because the zoo is the only one in continental US to be located in a sub-tropical climate, it allows animals which otherwise could not be exhibited in colder climates, to be seen and enjoyed. For example, in the area designated as ‘Asia’ you can see Asian River Otters, Komodo Dragons and Bengal Tigers. Whilst in ‘Australia’ you can gaze on koalas, kangaroos and wallabies – our favourites.
There are guided tram tours, and a free elevated air-conditioned monorail tour. As well as this you can catch wildlife shows and talks from keepers, and you can even take your whole family on a Safari Cycle! The children will love sitting in one of these 4 wheeled vehicles, which come complete with a canopy for shade. Then, if you want to see lush vegetation and foliage you can take a walk through the tropical botanical gardens. The children are not forgotten, with playgrounds and water play areas for them to enjoy. Throughout the park you will find souvenir shops and dining areas.
Miami Metrozoo is located just ½ a mile from the Florida Turnpike, 20 minutes SW of Miami Airport, and 30 minutes from South Beach, so this zoo is easy to access. It can be found at 12400 SW 152nd St. The zoo is open from 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. every day, and admission is $11.50 for adults, $6.75 for children aged 3-12, and $10.50 for seniors over 65. All of these prices are plus tax, of course.
Don’t forget to take your camera with you - it’s a great day out for all the family.
Rita Fraser
OV Ref: 576
25/07/05
The zoo itself stands on a 740-acre site, of which about 300 acres have been developed. Because the zoo is the only one in continental US to be located in a sub-tropical climate, it allows animals which otherwise could not be exhibited in colder climates, to be seen and enjoyed. For example, in the area designated as ‘Asia’ you can see Asian River Otters, Komodo Dragons and Bengal Tigers. Whilst in ‘Australia’ you can gaze on koalas, kangaroos and wallabies – our favourites.
There are guided tram tours, and a free elevated air-conditioned monorail tour. As well as this you can catch wildlife shows and talks from keepers, and you can even take your whole family on a Safari Cycle! The children will love sitting in one of these 4 wheeled vehicles, which come complete with a canopy for shade. Then, if you want to see lush vegetation and foliage you can take a walk through the tropical botanical gardens. The children are not forgotten, with playgrounds and water play areas for them to enjoy. Throughout the park you will find souvenir shops and dining areas.
Miami Metrozoo is located just ½ a mile from the Florida Turnpike, 20 minutes SW of Miami Airport, and 30 minutes from South Beach, so this zoo is easy to access. It can be found at 12400 SW 152nd St. The zoo is open from 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. every day, and admission is $11.50 for adults, $6.75 for children aged 3-12, and $10.50 for seniors over 65. All of these prices are plus tax, of course.
Don’t forget to take your camera with you - it’s a great day out for all the family.
Rita Fraser
OV Ref: 576
25/07/05