Lowry Park Zoo

Frommer's Review

The opportunity to watch 3,000-pound manatees, Komodo dragons, Persian leopards, and rare red pandas makes this a worthwhile excursion after the kids have seen the plains of Africa at Busch Gardens. With lots of greenery, bubbling brooks, and waterfalls, this 24-acre zoo displays animals in settings similar to their natural habitats. Exhibits include the Florida wildlife display, Asian Domain, Primate World, Aquatic Center, free-flight aviary with a birds-of-prey show, hands-on Discovery Center, and endangered-species carousel ride. The Wallaroo Station has kids' rides, a small water park, a kangaroo walk-about, and a petting zoo. Lowry Park has one of Florida's three manatee hospitals and rehabilitation centers. The Eco Tour is very popular, featuring a cruise on the Hillsborough River, where you'll see turtles, herons, and manatees. The cost is $14 for adults, $13 for seniors, and $10 for children 3 to 11 (zoo and Eco Tour Package costs $27 for adults, $25 for seniors and $19 for children 3-11). The zoo is also a sanctuary for Florida panthers and red wolves. In spring 2006, the zoo introduced the rare African shoebill stork; a new ride, an African safari tram-style tour; and a new dining option, The Garden Grille inside the zoo's front gate.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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