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 interact with the Barnyard Buddies. With educational programs, Zoo conservation efforts and unforgettable wildlife moments, the Central Florida Zoo is one of the best ways to experience animal encounters in Orlando.
Getting close to majestic creatures leaves lasting impressions. It’s educational, emotional and instills respect for wildlife. The Zoo’s AZA-accredited status ensures high-quality, ethical interactions. The curated experiences, like rhino encounters and giraffe feedings, support both learning and conservation while creating lasting memories for guests.
All of it is perfectly in line with the Zoo’s mission: to create connections that inspire people to take action for wildlife.
Available Fridays through Mondays, this up-close opportunity at the Central Florida Zoo features PJ, the greater one-horned rhino—a vulnerable species with a gentle personality. Rhino encounters are held at 11:30 a.m., 11:50 a.m., and 12:10 p.m., offering multiple chances to engage in this rare, unforgettable experience.
Guests get to observe, touch and take photos with PJ, all while learning about rhino behavior, habitat loss and conservation efforts. A portion of each ticket supports global rhino conservation through the International Rhino Foundation, making this both a fun and meaningful encounter.
Click here to book your rhino encounter. Space is limited to five spots per session.
Every day from 10:30 a.m.–2 p.m., guests at the Central Florida Zoo can feed the towering giraffe, Gage. This hands-on feeding allows children and adults alike to come face-to-face with this gentle giant. It’s a simple yet magical way to connect with wildlife and learn about giraffes, their habitat and what’s being done to protect their species in the wild.
For more information, click here.
Yes! Perfect for younger guests and animal lovers, the Barnyard Buddies area of the Central Florida Zoo offers a charming, interactive petting zoo filled with friendly farm animals like an alpaca, llama, goats and Harlequin sheep. Feedings are available twice daily at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., and feed can be purchased in the gift shop.
To learn more about this experience, click here.
Today’s families want more than entertainment—they want meaningful, educational experiences. Animal encounters help foster empathy, awareness and a deeper understanding of wildlife.
Every guest interaction supports the Zoo’s work in protecting species and educating the public. For many children, these encounters are their first close-up view of exotic wildlife—and those early impressions can spark a lifelong passion for nature and conservation.
Whether you’re looking for Orlando kids’ activities or planning a field trip, the Zoo provides opportunities to learn about species survival and the importance of sustainability.
The Central Florida Zoo is more than just animal experiences. It’s an immersive nature destination offering a range of Orlando attractions for all ages.
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Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or seeking things to do near Orlando, the Zoo is a perfect outdoor destination in Sanford.
Whether you’re a local looking for things to do in Sanford or a visitor exploring the best animal encounters in Orlando, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens offers something unforgettable for every age. From feeding a giraffe and meeting a rhinoceros to hands-on fun with barnyard animals, the Sanford zoo creates moments that educate, inspire and connect people to the natural world.
As one of the best zoos in Florida, this destination combines fun, conservation and learning into one incredible experience. Ready to make memories with your family? Plan your visit today and see why the Central Florida Zoo is a top choice. Visit centralfloridazoo.org to purchase your tickets today!
