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Zoo Miami

Zoo Miami: Hours, Address, Zoo Miami Reviews: 4.5/5

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Zoo Miami

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Zoo Miami
4.5
4,787
#14 of 366 things to do in Miami
Zoos
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10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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About
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.
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
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The area
Address
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
4,788 reviews
Excellent
2,720
Very good
1,414
Average
436
Poor
129
Terrible
89
Wesley
Frederick, MD48 contributions
Very Nice Outing for the family!
My children had a great time at the Miami Zoo. During our trip to Florida, we were looking for activities for the kids. We purchased our tickets online, and the park was not as crowded, which was ideal for our visit. We attempted to rent a bicycle to ride around the park, but they were all booked for the entire two hours. We chose to take the tram ride around the Zoo. The ride lasted 45-50 minutes, with the conductor explaining each animal that passed by. The ride took us behind the park for the first 5 minutes, so there wasn't much to see. It was a pleasant experience for the children, and it beats walking. Other activities that can be done while walking through the water park and feeding the giraffes include viewing the animals in an enclosed rock dome. There is an activity area in an enclosed building at the zoo's entrance that was a fun experience for the kids with virtual butterflies, a maze, and other activities.
Written March 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ZooMiami
Thank you so much for your recommendation and review.
Written June 3, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Samuel M
Erie, PA209 contributions
Great Zoo that's still getting better
It's been 17 years since my last visit to Zoo Miami and my how things have changed (and improved) here since then. This has always been a large, well run zoo but it was even better with this latest visit. Price for admission is about on par with other zoos this size, though seniors do get a 25% off reduction. It can be a bit of a challenge to get here, especially on days when the traffic is heavy. But, it's worth the trip.

Usually, large zoos such as this one have zoo maps and sometimes animal footprints painted on the pathways so you know where you are going. This zoo does not have either, so it helps to print the zoo map from their website before you visit. Basically, Zoo Miami is broken down into three major pathways, with each route taking roughly two hours to cover on foot. As you enter, the flamingo exhibit is very nice and allows you get very close to these amazing birds. Just past this on the right is the exhibit for the Sumatran Tiger, another must see item. You can then go left, straight, or to the right into the various world zones, but be sure to cover all three thoroughly.

Our favorite exhibits included the jaguar exhibit which contains a cave that you can enter to see this magnificent cat up close if you are lucky. The two female African elephants are both 47 years old and put on their own little show if you time your visit when the trainer is feeding them. We also loved the Lowland Gorilla exhibit with it's two powerful silverback males, the painted wild dogs from Africa are a must see, and the precocious pygmy hippopotamus is quite entertaining and even used her water fountain jet by the pool as a personal bidet! Finally, the collection of adult and juvenile giraffes is equally impressive, and allows visitors to climb up a ramp onto a platform and feed them.

Zoo Miami offers a fair amount of shade, but on hot days you may want to take several breaks because there is a fair amount of walking here, or catch the tram if you prefer. COVID has shut down the zoo's monorail system, which hopefully will be operational again some day soon.

There are plenty of places to grab refreshments both near the entrance and on the various paths, and a nice gift shop can wrap your visit before exiting.

Suggestions for improvement would include re-introducing zoo maps when you pay for admission, color-themed painted animal tracks to better separate the zone you are in (similar to other large zoos like the Metro Toronto Zoo), and re-establishing the monorail system now that COVID is winding down.

Overall, this is a wonderful zoo and easily ranks among the top three that we have ever visited. It comes highly recommended.
Written March 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ZooMiami
Thanks for the recommendation! Hope to see you soon.
Written March 11, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jason P
Lansing, MI758 contributions
Very Large Zoo. Wear your walking shoes
We love visiting zoos and have been to many zoos across the United States. This was probably the largest zoo we have ever been to in terms of distances walked.

Because it is such a large zoo, many of the animals have large enclosures, which is a good thing, but it is quite a haul between exhibits.

The distances are so great they rent bicycle carts, which I have never seen at any other zoo. The bicycle carts work here because the walking paths in the zoo are very wide.

If you have little ones, make sure you either have a stroller or rent the bicycle carts. The bicycle cart rentals are pricey ($39 for small and $54 for large for three hours), so keep that in mind when budgeting for this zoo.

If looking to save on admission, look online for discounts. Currently, Mondays have adult admission for $10 and they were discounting admission by $3 on all other days online.

The zoo exhibits themselves were spectacular and most seemed new. Favorites for us were the Amazon exhibits featuring a Jaguar and a Harpy Eagle and the large aviary called Wings of Asia. The zoo is also beautifully landscaped with tropical plants.

Would highly recommend going to this zoo on a cool and/or cloudy day due to the amount of walking involved and there being very few indoor exhibits. One of the weirdest things about this zoo is that you aren’t pestered by seagulls or pigeons while dining outside. Instead, there are many ibis ready to snatch any food that falls to the ground.

Zoo is located far from major tourist areas and is on the southwest side of Miami. About a half hour from South Beach if no traffic.
Written November 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
EduardPM
Cancun, Mexico372 contributions
I think they need more animals of the same species
I visited the Zoo because of my children, however I am not a zoo fan, because I think the animals need to be free in their natural habit, or at least living with more of the same specie.
The Zoo is divided in world sections, like Africa, Australia, Asia, with animals according to the geographical area.
The regular Fee to entrance is $ 30 USD but you can buy the Meal package for $ 39, and get the meal at the oasis restaurant after noon.
You can book a bike for 2 or more people, it will make it easier to move around, specially if you are coming with little kids.

The Zoo has reasonable areas for big animals, like elephants, antilopes or lions, even for the Birds, however in the Australia section, there is a Koala and another animal in a small room each one, which I think that's not nice for some one who is goint to be lockdown for the rest of his life, at least they should be with animals of the same specie in bigger areas, to make lees stressful their lifes.
There is also a big turtle at the snake area, living in a small container, this little creature bearly moves....

Anyway, is just my opinion,.. But I think is OK for families
Written September 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Grumpymichele
Grapevine, TX32 contributions
Big zoo
Family
We enjoyed ourselves. One of the people in our party was looking for an electric vehicle wheelchair or scooter. You have to rent these in advance they were all out by the time we arrived. You can take a tour for $90 each. That was also not available
We ended up walking past the Tigers who were active and very healthy looking; the Gibbons who seemed to be showing off. On the cuff we boarded a tram for seven dollars each, we saw elephants, rhinoceros and many other animals, more than we expected to see. Then we took a little “airboat” ride for five dollars each and saw alligators and bears. I feel like for $12 we got to see nearly every animal in the zoo with very limited walking. All in about two hours. If you have small children they have bikes that you can pedal them around in that look like fun.
Written February 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ZooMiami
Thanks for the recommendation! We're sorry you weren't able to book in advance. Hope to see you again soon.
Written March 11, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
William
1 contribution
Disappointed
Couples
After paying $50 dollars to get in they will not let you take in your own bike. I’m 68 years old walking for three hours is hard I live on social security and don’t have $40 more dollars to rent there bike. They are just plan to money hungry very disappointed.
Written January 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ZooMiami
Hi, thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. First, let us say that we are truly sorry you had a less than ideal experience at the zoo. We always strive to give our visitors and our animals the best experiences possible and are displeased to hear we fell short in this regard. We would like to connect with you directly to get more feedback and try to ameliorate this. We'd like to ask that you please reach out to Diana Vega at diana.vega@miamidade.gov and Carol Bernier at carol.bernier@miamidade.gov. We hope to hear from you soon.
Written February 2, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amparo M
4 contributions
Afternoon adventure
Friends
Had obtained a free pass from the library and decided to explore the afternoon even though it was incredibly hot! They have so many splash zones that spray a mist of cool water and definitely helps with the heat. A lot of shade and benches/tables available for everyone to use. Admission is $23 for adults and the rides to pedal around the zoo are $53 for one that fits 2 adults and 2 small children in front OR $69 for a 4 adult, 2 small children bike. It was sad to see a lot of animals being sad or In a corner due to being trapped in a small space. Some exhibits seemed empty. Giraffe feedings are $5 for a snack and $11 for a bucket!
Written June 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ZooMiami
Thank you so much for your recommendation and review. We're so happy to hear you enjoyed your visit and our splash zones. Hope to see you at the zoo again soon!
Written June 30, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
pastelebony
Somerset, MA79 contributions
In my top 5 zoos
I have been cross country quite a bit and have gone to many zoos and this is one that stands out for me. It is very BIG distance wise but I love that because the animals have decent size habitats. I walk it because I want the exercise and its still the best way to see the place. But for those that have problems getting around there is a monorail, tram and pedal carts that can be rented. This place is value for the money, I have seen smaller places priced the same and if you have kids you can spend all day here. It took me 4 hours and that was only stopping twice to have a snack and drink. If you have kids there are several play areas where you can take a break thus making a day of it. This zoo has many animals and you will surely come across some that you have never seen before. I would definitely go in morning and get the bulk done before it gets warm, I fortunately have gone here in the Dec/Jan months so have never dealt with the heat. Great place for the whole family!
Written January 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ZooMiami
Thank you for the review!
Written January 13, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kristina B
Heredia, Costa Rica84 contributions
Possibly the best zoo I have visited!!
Solo
I LOVED this zoo. I was a little unsure about visiting since in general I'm not a fan of zoos BUT this zoo is wonderful. If you are like me and unsure about going just go! You will not regret it. The spaces/exhibits are big and most of them are in the open air, you can tell the animals are well taken care of and they seem happy. The way the exhibits are built also allows you to view them better. I love that they have little spaces for viewing the animals which makes the experience more interactive. I adored the feeding experiences, they are short but awesome. All the staff was SO friendly. I went during the week and had no issues with overcrowding or people disrespecting COVID safety guidelines. The zoo is HUGE. I walked all of it but it was exhausting, and I would definitely recommend renting one of their bicycle style cars to make the experience easier.
Written January 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ZooMiami
Thank you so much for your recommendation and review. We're so happy to hear you enjoyed your visit. Hope to see you at the zoo again soon!
Written February 2, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Freddie
Fort Myers, FL28 contributions
Amazing safe zoo with great exhibits
Couples
We saw animals that we had only seen on TV. One of the best zoo we have ever been too anywhere in the country. We visited on Friday and were there from 11:30am to 4:30pm and we could not see all of it! It is A LOT of walking and would recommend renting the bikes if you want to see all or most of the zoo, especially on a warm day. I felt like we had the zoo to ourselves most of the time. Once in a while we would see someone else at the same exhibit as us. The only thing I wish they had was more signs pointing to where things were. The zoo map isnt to scale and hard to use, but this is a minor thing.
Written February 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ZooMiami
Thank you so much for your recommendation and review. We're so happy to hear you enjoyed your visit. Hope to see you at the zoo again soon!
Written March 2, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Zoo Miami
Zoo Miami is open:
  • Sun - Sat 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Buy tickets in advance on Tripadvisor. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund.
We recommend booking Zoo Miami tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 4 Zoo Miami tours on Tripadvisor
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