The Emerald Coast is known for being home to a diverse set of creatures. From exotic sea life to a plethora of land animals, there’s no shortage of fauna here. While you could seek these animals out yourself, you’d be hard-pressed to find lions, sloths, or wallabies in Florida. Instead, pay a visit to the Emerald Coast Zoo where you’ll find all of these creatures and more.
Emerald Coast Zoo
The Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge Zoological Park is a hidden gem in Crestview, Florida. Also simply known as the Emerald Coast Zoo, this facility offers kids and adults alike the chance to see and interact with animals that usually require a plane ticket and a safari guide to see. Creatures you will find range from the ordinary – goats, ravens, bears – to the extraordinary – patas monkeys, two-toed sloths, and umbrella cockatoos.
General admission is a suggested donation of $10 for adults and $7 for children ages 2–9. Military members receive $1 off.
If you want to visit, make sure to plan for a weekend trip. The zoo is open Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, it’s open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please note that the last admission will be sold one hour before closing time. The zoo is closed Monday through Wednesday.
Animal Encounters
If you or your children love animals, there’s no better experience than an Animal Encounter. Choose from three animals – Levi the Lion, the sloth, or the lemurs – and get an interactive experience like no other. With Levi the Lion, you’ll get to do some operant conditioning training at $75 for one person and $50 for each additional. To feed and pet the sloth, pricing is $50 for one person and $35 for each additional. And to feed the lemurs through the fence, you’ll pay $35 for one person and $20 for each additional. Don’t miss this unique opportunity.
Zoo Birthday Parties
A birthday at the zoo is a memorable way to celebrate for any kid. Best of all, you can leave the planning to the zoo staff, so you can enjoy time with friends and family while your kids enjoy the party. Guests will be treated to a private guided zoo tour, complete with an up-close-and-personal animal encounter. The staff will provide all of the essentials, simply bring the food and enjoy it under the shaded oak grove or covered pavilion. As a parting gift, all guests will receive a bag of special zoo treats.
Lee Nissan
Once you emerge from the wild, pay a visit to Lee Nissan in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Our lineup of new and pre-owned vehicles make for the perfect family vehicles. Don’t miss out on some of the best deals of the season. Come by today for a test drive.
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