News
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens’ greater one-horned rhino, PJ, moving to Buffalo Zoo to breed
SANFORD, Fla. (July 30, 2025) — The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is saying “see you later” (not goodbye!) to one of its most beloved residents. PJ, the greater one-horned rhino, is trading the Florida sunshine for snowflakes in Buffalo, New York, so that he can breed and perpetuate his species. But before that, […]
There’s no better time to explore the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens than during our 50th anniversary celebration!
Looking for the best zoo in Florida to visit this year? There’s no better time to explore the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens than during our 50th anniversary celebration! Nestled in the heart of Sanford, just minutes from downtown Orlando, the Central Florida Zoo has been a staple for animal lovers,...
Ways to experience animal encounters in Orlando
Whether you’re searching for unforgettable animal encounters in Orlando, looking for Orlando family activities, or hoping to discover things to do with kids in Orlando, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens offers a wild adventure. Animal encounters await at the Sanford Zoo, where guests can feed the giraffe, meet a rhino and...
170 striped newts released in Northern Florida
More than 100 tiny striped newts now call Northern Florida home. The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens’ Orianne Center for Indigo Conservation (OCIC) joined conservation partners, including the Coastal Plains Institute and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, for another successful striped newt release. 170 striped...
Best Orlando attractions to visit during the summer
With sunshine almost year-round and a wide variety of activities for families, thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, it’s no wonder that Orlando is one of the top summer destinations in the country. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full summer vacation, there are endless Orlando attractions to explore. From theme parks and...
Nighttime outdoor Orlando activities at the Zoo
During the summer months in Central Florida, the best time to explore might just be after the sun goes down—and there’s no better place to do it than the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. If you’re looking for unforgettable nighttime outdoor Orlando activities, the Sanford Zoo has your wild side covered. From kids-only fun...
