Sarasota Jungle Gardens: Visitor’s Guide

A unique family-friendly activity in Sarasota is visiting the Sarasota Jungle Gardens. This zoological garden has a little bit of everything from animal exhibits, animal interactions, walking trails, and one of the most popular activities – feeding the flamingos! Continue reading to learn everything you need to know before planning your visit.

Flamingos by a lake with a water fountain in the middle.

What is the Sarasota Jungle Gardens?

The Sarasota Jungle Gardens are a zoological garden that has been a top family attraction in Sarasota since 1939. The gardens are 10-acres and there are animal exhibits, interactions, and wildlife shows! There are 1.2-miles of paved or brick walking trails which are stroller and wheelchair accessible. The trails are partially shaded.

Shady brick pathway surrounded by trees.

Where is it located?

The Sarasota Jungle Gardens are at 3701 Bay Shore Rd. Sarasota, Florida 34234, just north of downtown. It is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM.

Where do I park?

There is a paved parking lot right outside of the entrance. Additionally, during peak visitation times there is overflow parking available at the church across Bay Shore Road. Parking is free!

How much does it cost to visit?

There is a daily admission fee for children and adults, which does not include the special animal encounters or interactions. TIP: to skip the line when you arrive, buy your ticket ahead of time!

Adults: $25
Children (4-12 years): $15
Children (3 and under): Free

Additional costs include animal encounters $5 to 10 per person, animal encounters which are $35 per person, and animal feed. If you are local, annual memberships can be purchased for adults, children, or families. There is also an option for summer memberships starting June 1^st through August 31^st.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens entry sign from road.

How long does it take to visit?

I recommend at least 2 hours to fully enjoy the Sarasota Jungle Gardens. However, if you want to take advantage of the wildlife shows, animal encounters, and animal interactions you can expect to visit for 2 to 4 hours.

What animals can I see at the Sarasota Jungle Gardens?

There are many different animal exhibits throughout the gardens! Some of my favorites included the crocodiles, the porcupine, flamingo feeding area, and the bird encounter area. Other animals include turtles, reptiles, owls, koi fish, and more!

Colorful birds in the bird exhibit area.

What animal interactions are available?

There are a few different options to interact with the animals at Sarasota Jungle Gardens! There are short 5-minutes animal encounters, 30-minute animal interactions, and animal feeding opportunities.

Animal encounters: Birds or alligators
Animal interactions: Aldabra tortoise and reeves munthac deer
Feeding opportunities: Petting zoo, alligators, and flamingos

The interactions and encounters occur at specific times throughout the day. When you are purchasing your ticket be sure to ask what time they are scheduled. The petting zoo is open from 11 AM to 3 PM daily.

What shows are available?

There are currently 4 shows that occur on the hour starting at 11 AM and ending at 3 PM. There is a covered pavilion with seating that is first come first serve and the shows are included in your admission cost. The shows are popular so head to the pavilion about 15 minutes early to ensure you can find a seat!

11 AM: Wildlife Wonder Show
12 PM: Jungle Bird Show
1 PM: Wildlife Wonder Show
3 PM: Reptile Show

Are outside food and beverages allowed?

No, outside food and beverage is not permitted. Typically, visitors can grab a bite to eat the The Flamingo Cafe. However, as of February 20, 2024 the cafe is currently closed due to renovations. There were no estimated dates of reopening on the posted signs. Snacks, water, and drinks can be bought at the gift shop at the garden entrance.

Is the Sarasota Jungle Gardens worth visiting?

My answer is yes! This is a unique activity worth visiting at least once, if not multiple times. There is so much to see and do when you visit, but some of the most popular activities are animal interactions, wildlife shows, and feeding the flamingos!