Miami Metrozoo drums up family fun
At the Miami Metrozoo's entrance, you'll hear rhythmic tribal drums while the flamingos spot the lush opening pond with bright pink hues. Located several miles south of the hustle and bustle of downtown Miami, these animals have a great place to call home.
Of the zoo's 700-plus acres, close to 300 acres are developed and ready for animal lovers. There's so much ground to cover, you may consider renting a family-sized covered Safari Cycle.
Water play areas called Splash Pads located throughout the zoo will cool you off quickly. And along the three miles of the Metrozoo's walking paths, there are ample opportunities to buy frozen lemonade, ice cream, arepas, kabobs and other quick treats to fuel your trek.
You can see the zoo from the affordable, air-conditioned Zoofari Monorail, arriving about every 25 minutes at each of the four stations around the zoo. Playgrounds are located throughout the zoo, and kids will also enjoy the Wildlife Carousel.
Expect to see giraffes, elephants, vipers, giant river otters, chimpanzees, tree kangaroos, meerkats, red-eyed tree frogs, hippos, water hogs, bears, hyenas, rhinos and more. To view an interactive zoo map, click here.
Catch the Wildlife Show at noon, 2 or 4:30 p.m. for a taste of the wild with parrots, vultures and a king cheetah. Zoo Keepers and feeding times run from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For exact times and prices, check the Shows & Ride webpage.
A family annual membership costs $99 and includes free admission for family members, discounts on zoo merchandise, Safari Cycle rentals, zoo concessions and discounted admissions to zoos, aquariums and wildlife centers across the country.
And talk about a wild time — the zoo also hosts birthday parties for groups of 20 or more. For details, check the Birthday Party webpage. The package includes lunch, cake, admission, animal-themed decorations, party-area space for two hours and more.
- by Jessica Bates, Miami Reporter for HelloMetro
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