Top 10 Nature & Parks in Miami, Florida (FL)

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.

By reservation, enter the gates of this hidden oasis tucked in metropolitan Miami. See the sausage tree, named for its pendulous fruit hanging from ropelike stalks. Stand dwarfed by a hundred-year-old baobab from Tanzania that weighs almost 50 tons. Drink in the haunting fragrance of plants prized by the perfume industry. See the vibrant magenta blossoms of the pink trumpet tree as they color the horizon. Touch the hard hexagonal projections on the skins of the jakfruit, the world's largest tree fruit, or the feathery foliage of the canary yellow royal poinciana from Guyana. Discover the place that David Fairchild, the "Columbus of American Horticulture" called home.

The Deering Estate is a 21st Century house museum and an environmental preserve listed on the National Register of Historic Places, owned by the State of Florida and managed by Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department. The Estate offers daily tours of our historic houses -the Stone House and Richmond Cottage, as well as seasonal tours of the lush natural areas where fossil bones have been found, dating back as far as 50,000 years. From canoe tours to butterfly walks and guided nature hikes, the Deering Estate has diverse activities for the whole family to enjoy. General admission is $15 for adults and $7 children (ages 4-14) between the hours of 10AM and 4PM. The last ticket is sold at 4PM and the Estate closes at 5PM. We are open every day except Christmas and Thanksgiving. *Mangrove Boardwalk closed until further notice*

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.)