Miami MetroZoo

August 24, 2012

Miami MetroZoo is quickly turning out to be the finest zoo across the country. Unlike the rest of zoos in the nation, the climate of Miami lets MetroZoo accommodate a diverse population of wildlife that originates from Asia, Africa, and Australia. A frontrunner in free-range or cageless exhibits, animals that peacefully coexist in the wild are displayed together in one location. Conversely, ferocious beasts are detached from the rest through the use of moats. In addition, the landscape and greens have been carefully designed to emulate the natural environment of the animals.

Feed a Giraffe

To meet a giraffe face to face, just head to the Samburu Giraffe Feeding Station. It is open every day from 11a.m. to 4p.m. and allows visitors to feed the beautiful herbivores for a $2 minimal fee. The giraffes won’t hesitate to eat the food you reach out to them.

Wings of Asia Aviary

The zoo stays true to its diverse collection of animals thanks to the American Bankers Family Aviary called Wings of Asia. No netting or wires restrain the birds from flying beyond the largest open-air aviary in the country. Over 300 avian species are found here, including a Sultan Tit that is the single known captive of its kind in the west. Many of them are classified rare, exotic, and even endangered.

Exploring the Zoo

With 300 acres of animal exhibits to look at, brace yourself for long walks on this 740-acre zoo property. If extended periods of traveling on foot are not your thing, there are available carriage bikes for rent at the entrance. These simple vehicles can accommodate two or four people eager to see the zoo. Just prepare for the additional costs and their general scarcity during weekends.

You don’t have to worry about visiting the zoo during hot summers. More than eight thousand trees make up the cooling shade against the sun. With other trail foliage that is perfect for shaded resting locations, the MetroZoo is certainly an excellent outdoor pursuit. Mist cooling is also installed by the walking paths.

Children will have fun playing at the fountains, playground, petting zoo, and merry-go-round.

Miami MetroZoo Operating Hours

Located at 152^nd Street and 124^th Avenue, the Miami MetroZoo is open for everyone’s leisure every day beginning 9:30a.m. While admission is only up to 4:00pm, the zoo itself closes at 5:30p.m. Admission for adults costs $15.95 while children ages 3 to 12 are charged $11.95.

Admission Discounts

Waived or cheaper admission fees are given to members of particular groups:

• Owners of the Go Miami Card (buy direct) are offered free entrance.
• Senior citizenship (65 or older) with ID can get a dollar discount.
• Four adult or child admission tickets with a $1 discount each can be availed by members of the military.
• Recognized travel agents can enjoy 10% discount for a maximum of four tickets.
• The staff of the Miami-Dade County can get up to four admissions for adults and children, with $4 and $2 respective discounts. These admissions are only available to immediate family members.
• Groups of 10 to 20 people receive 10% discount, while a 25% discount awaits groups of more than 100 people.