Things to do in Miami, Florida (FL): The Best Zoos & Aquariums

Zoo Miami today occupies almost 750 acres, and is home to more than 3,000 animals representing over 500 different species. Of this population, more than 40 species are classified as endangered. The zoo also houses more than 1,000 species of trees, palms and other plants, and over 100 special exhibits showcasing a broad number of species and scientific topics. We are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) which means we have passed a rigorous application and inspection process and meet or exceed the AZA's standards for animal health and welfare, fundraising, zoo staffing, and involvement in global conservation efforts. Zoo Miami is proud to be an active leader in many global wildlife and environmental conservation initiatives, and we are currently involved in over 36 projects taking place on six continents.

ZWF Miami is the only zoo in South Florida with as many animal encounters. We carry more than 40 exotic species at our facility with many available for interactive activities involving our guests. The five acre zoo houses everything from domestic animals and primates to large predatory birds and mammals. Some of our popular selection of exotic zoo animals are Chimpanzees, Gibbon Apes, Sloths, Lemurs, Owls, Snakes, Anteater, Lions Cub,, Tiger Cubs, Ligers, Black Jaguar, and mischievous Capuchin monkeys - like those used in many movies. The Zoological Wildlife Foundation offers intimate tours and private encounters by appointment. Contact us to schedule a special tour with our exotic animals! It's an experience you will never forget!

THE BEST DEAL ANYWHERE FOR INTERACTIVE WILDLIFE EXPERIENCES! Hug a Kangaroo, Hold an Alligator, Play with Wolves, Pet a Sloth, and more! When you visit us, you will get a close up experience with over 100 species of wildlife from 5 continents including Kangaroos, Anteaters, Sloths, Arctic & Timber Wolves, 4 species of Fox, Lemurs, Monkeys, 2 species of Fruit Bats, Skunks, Armadillos, Alligators, Caiman, Tegus, Monitors, 2 species of Porcupines, Emus, large Tortoises, Snakes, Lizards, Tarantulas, Scorpions, Coati Mundis, Mata Matas, and much more. Join us for the Kangaroo & Wolf Encounters, and participate in one of our hands-on wildlife presentations offered several times each day. Experienced, knowledgeable, friendly staff on site & always available for questions, and to help you have an unforgettable experience. We guarantee you will not get a more hands-on experience anywhere. Our five beautiful acres are filled with over 100 mature native and exotic trees that provide lots of shade and interesting, interactive learning experiences. You will have the opportunity to visit the enchanting sunken rainforest garden, as well as our butterfly and hummingbird gardens. You can also explore our organic garden with herbs, spices and other intriguing plants in our candy, drinks, spices, vegetable, medicinal, and pizza sections. All of this is included in our regular admission price. We hope to see you soon. Few experiences touch the heart and mind like a personal encounter with one of nature's fascinating creatures. The resonance of a positive experience like this can last a lifetime. Snacks and hotdogs are available, or bring your own picnic lunch. (No juice boxes or juice pouches with the small straws on the outside of the package please.)

COVID-19 safety policies: Advance reservations required and masks must be worn by all visitors. Monkey Jungle is a one of a kind wildlife park and discovery center established in 1935. It is on a natural subtropical forest in southern Miami Dade County. The Jungle wildlife live here much as they would in their native habitats. Visitors, students and scientists experience unique up close encounters with these amazing creatures in Miami's natural 30-acre Jungle park. Over 400 primates run free throughout this reserve.

Jungle Island, a favorite South Florida landmark, is an intimate eco-adventure park and events destination located in the heart of Miami, across from the cruise ports between Downtown Miami and South Beach. Building upon a rich tradition that began in 1936, Jungle Island is home to thrilling new attractions designed to take guests to new heights and some of the world's most rare exotic animals. Visitors enjoy immersive, real-life jungle experiences including treetop adventures, engaging animal shows and informative exhibits while strolling by streams and waterfalls under a lush canopy of tropical trees. Book unforgettable hands-on encounters with fascinating animals or go on privately guided behind-the-scenes VIP tours - just like the many A-list celebrities who frequent Jungle Island. With its newly renovated Bloom Ballroom and picturesque outdoor spaces including a private beach, the 18-acre park also serves as Miami’s destination for extraordinary events.

A local-owned and operated family business that's been in South Florida since 1971. Specializing in all fresh water tropical fish and koi, including Angelfish, Cichlids, Gourami, Guppies, Mollies, Swordtails, Oscars, Arowana, and More! Come on out with friends and family to see a place "Like Nowhere Else On Earth."

Ignite your curiosity and see your world differently at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science (Frost Science), Miami’s only planetarium, aquarium and science museum! Riveting live shows, animals, hands-on interactives and cutting-edge technology are all part of the adventure ahead. Descend the thrilling depths of the museum’s three-level Aquarium, where you’ll touch a stingray, come face-to-face with hammerhead sharks and more. Hurtle through space, slide down a double helix or climb aboard an asteroid—it’s all in a day’s work inside the Frost Planetarium. An architectural marvel in the heart of Downtown Miami’s waterfront Maurice A. Ferré Park, Frost Science is a museum for all ages and interests.

On a 38-acre tropical paradise with spectacular skyline views lies a South Florida attraction like no other. Welcome to Miami Seaquarium®, a place where dolphins walk on water and killer whales fly through the air. Where sea lions delight children of all ages and endangered sea turtles and manatees find a safe haven. Enjoy a world-class marine-life entertainment park with eight different marine animal shows and astonishing daily presentations. You've heard the mysterious legends and fascinating facts about dolphins, one of the world's most magnificent marine mammals. Now, you can have a hands-on experience with one of these amazing animals at Dolphin Harbor, the new home to our dolphin interaction programs at Miami Seaquarium.Miami Seaquarium® is a place of inspiration, education - and fun!