History of the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is dedicated to preserving the beauty and wonder of animals and their habitats.

We are committed to sharing our knowledge, engaging visitors, and celebrating our natural world.

First established as the Sanford Zoo in 1923 with a collection of donated animals held by the Sanford Fire Department. In 1941, the zoo was relocated to new facilities in downtown Sanford, on the site of the present City Hall.

The Zoo of today, opened its doors at its present site on July 4, 1975 and it continues to grow as Seminole County's premier recreational and educational attraction.