Tampa: ZooTampa at Lowry Park Ticket with After Hours Option

If you’re looking for a day out that mixes wildlife, fun rides, and a touch of conservation, ZooTampa at Lowry Park might just be worth your attention. This attraction is often praised for its lush setting and animal experiences, and it’s a popular choice for both locals and visitors alike. Today, we’re sharing a thorough look at what you can expect from a visit here, based on reviews, features, and what makes this zoo special.

What we love most about ZooTampa is the chance to get up-close with animals from around the world and the dedicated conservation efforts, especially for Florida-native species like the Florida panther and manatees. The Wildlife Connections and animal chats are highlights that allow for personal interactions with the creatures, making the experience both educational and memorable. Plus, the addition of exciting rides like Roaring Springs and safari-style adventures adds a layer of fun that keeps visitors of all ages engaged.

On the flip side, a consideration worth noting is that some visitors might find their time limited if they want to do everything, especially with the inclusion of rides and animal encounters. The ticket price, while reasonable at $30 per person, covers a lot—so managing expectations about what’s included (and what’s not, like food, photos, or stroller rentals) helps plan the day better. This experience is a good fit for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and those simply wanting a lively, well-maintained zoo visit.

If you’re pondering whether this tour is suitable for your travel plans, think about what kind of experience you want. If it’s a day filled with animals, engaging shows, and a bit of adventure, ZooTampa has a lot to offer. Now, let’s dig into what makes this attraction tick and why it could be a memorable part of your Tampa trip.

Key Points

• Wildlife and Conservation Focus: One of only four manatee rehab centers in the U.S., this zoo prioritizes endangered and threatened species.
• Interactive Experiences: Animal chats and wildlife connections offer personal, educational encounters.
• Variety of Attractions: From safari rides to thrill rides like Roaring Springs, there’s entertainment for all ages.
• Affordable Entry: At $30, it provides good value considering the number of exhibits and rides included.
• Beautiful Setting: The lush, naturalistic habitats make for a pleasant, scenic visit.
• Accessibility: The zoo is wheelchair accessible and offers parking, making logistics easier.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes ZooTampa Special?

ZooTampa isn’t just a collection of cages and exhibits; it’s a thoughtfully designed environment that mimics animals’ natural habitats. We loved the way the lush greenery and open spaces make you feel like you’re wandering through different parts of the world. Visitors often comment on how well-maintained and clean the zoo is, which adds to the overall positive vibe as you stroll between exhibits.

One of the standout features mentioned in reviews is the opportunity to see Florida-native animals like the Florida panther and manatees. The zoo is home to one of the few facilities globally that cares for sick and injured Florida panthers, which highlights its importance in conservation. Visitors get a chance to observe the dedicated team working behind the scenes, often featured in the popular series about the sanctuary.

The Wildlife Connections and animal chats are particularly praised. These are not just passive observations; you’ll find knowledgeable staff and guides engaging with guests, sharing interesting facts, and sometimes even allowing for a bit of hands-on interaction. For example, some reviews mention how these chats make the experience more memorable and educational, especially for kids and animal lovers.

The Animal Encounters and Exhibits

Getting nose-to-nose with animals is a core part of the ZooTampa experience. If you’re into wildlife conservation and personal connections, you’ll appreciate the animal chats. Many visitors have expressed delight at how friendly and informative the guides are. As one reviewer put it, “The staff was nice and friendly,” making the whole day feel welcoming.

The Florida-native species like the panther and manatees are a highlight, especially because you can witness the life-saving care provided to injured animals at the David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center. Watching these majestic creatures receive treatment makes you appreciate the zoo’s commitment to conservation and rescue.

The Macaw Flyover is another visually stunning feature, with vibrant birds soaring high above, captivating viewers. For those seeking thrills, the rides like Roaring Springs (a water slide) and Expedition Wild Africa (a safari-style ride) offer a different kind of excitement. The combination of animal encounters and rides ensures that the zoo appeals to a broad audience, from young children to adventure-seeking adults.

Rides and Attractions

While most of the focus is on animal exhibits, the zoo really shines with its rides and attractions. Roaring Springs offers a splash of adrenaline, and the safari ride through Africa gives an immersive experience that mimics real wildlife adventures. These rides are included in the ticket price, which adds significant value, especially considering the usual cost of theme park attractions.

Reviews mention that the rides are suitable for a variety of ages and provide an extra layer of entertainment beyond just looking at animals. However, it’s worth noting that the zoo’s main appeal still remains the animal exhibits and conservation efforts; the rides are a bonus rather than the core reason to visit.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Ticket Price and Value: At $30 per person, this entry fee seems justified considering the array of animals, rides, and educational programs available. Many reviews highlight that for the price, visitors get a lot of entertainment and meaningful animal experiences.

Duration and Planning: Most visitors spend around 2-4 hours exploring the zoo, catching animal chats, and enjoying the rides. If you aim to see everything, including the water rides and animal interactions, prepare for a full day.

Included and Not Included: The ticket includes entry, parking, rides, and animal chats, but excludes food, drinks, photos, and signature animal encounters. Planning ahead for meals or bringing your own snacks can help manage the day better.

Accessibility: The zoo is wheelchair accessible, and the pathways are navigable for most visitors, which makes for a smoother experience.

Additional Options: The “After Hours” option is available, providing a chance to experience the zoo outside regular hours—great for those wanting a quieter, more relaxed visit or special event.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Do Visitors Say?

The overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 118 reviews shows a high level of satisfaction. People consistently mention the cleanliness, safety, and friendliness of the staff. “Loved it, great zoo,” says one guest, while another highlights the “beautiful setting” and “well-maintained” grounds.

Many reviewers appreciate the interactive animal chats, describing them as educational and engaging. Comments about the stunning views and well-kept habitats reinforce the idea that this is a quality zoo that cares about its animals and visitors.

A few reviews mention that the zoo is manageable in a couple of hours if you’re on a tight schedule, but most note that spending a full day allows for a more relaxed experience. The rides are a hit, especially with young kids, but animal lovers will find the conservation work and exhibits equally rewarding.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is best suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Florida-native species or animal rescue efforts. If you enjoy interactive experiences, animal chats, and a variety of attractions, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also a good choice for those who want a value-packed outing—the ticket includes rides, animal encounters, and parking. If your main goal is to see the animals and learn about conservation, this zoo delivers well. However, if you’re after a more intense thrill ride, or a more extensive theme park experience, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

ZooTampa at Lowry Park offers a well-rounded, engaging day out that balances wildlife encounters with entertainment and education. It’s clear from reviews that the zoo’s dedicated staff, beautiful habitats, and focus on conservation resonate with visitors. For those who enjoy personal animal interactions, especially with Florida-native species, this place hits the mark.

The inclusion of rides and the chance to see endangered animals being cared for makes it a versatile destination. Located in a lush setting, it’s perfect for a relaxed, enjoyable day, whether you’re traveling with kids or just want a meaningful wildlife experience. The price point feels fair for what you get, making it a good value for a day of fun and learning.

If your trip to Tampa includes a desire to connect with animals and learn about local conservation efforts, this is a solid pick. It’s an experience that combines the thrill of rides with the warmth of personal animal moments, all set in a welcoming environment.

FAQ

Is there an option to visit after hours?
Yes, there’s an after-hours option available, which allows you to experience the zoo outside of regular hours for a quieter visit.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes entry to ZooTampa, parking, access to wildlife connections and animal chats, and rides and attractions.

Are the rides suitable for young children?
Most rides, like Roaring Springs and Expedition Wild Africa, are family-friendly. However, always check the specific height or age restrictions if traveling with young kids.

Can I see Florida-native animals here?
Absolutely. The zoo is home to native species like the Florida panther and manatees, with a focus on their rescue and conservation.

How long does a typical visit last?
Visitors generally spend 2-4 hours exploring, but staying longer allows for more animal interactions and to enjoy rides.

Is the zoo accessible?
Yes, the zoo is wheelchair accessible, with pathways designed to accommodate mobility aids.

What about food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, so plan to bring your own or purchase on-site.

Are photos allowed?
Photos are not included in the ticket price, so if you want souvenirs, consider bringing a camera or phone for pictures.

Is this experience good for wildlife enthusiasts?
Yes, especially because of the conservation focus and the chance to see behind-the-scenes rescue efforts.

Can I buy tickets later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

This tour offers a genuinely enjoyable blend of wildlife, adventure, and conservation education. Perfect for animal lovers and families alike, it’s a day that leaves you with memorable moments and a greater appreciation for the animals and efforts behind the scenes.

You can check availability for your dates here: