5 reasons you’ll fall in love with the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo + meet a sloth

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Need a reason to visit the Gulf Coast other than the beach? We have a must-add for your summer bucket list—a visit to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. With hundreds of incredible animals and fun experiences for all ages, read on for five things that will make you fall in love with this special place in Gulf Shores. Ready to plan your trip? Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism offers everything you need.

Plan your visit to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

• Zoo Hours: Daily, 9AM-4PM
• Location: 20499 Oak Rd East, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
• Cost: Adults (13-61) – $22.95 | Seniors (62+) & Military – $19.95 | Kids (3-12) – $14.95 | Kids 2 & under – Free
• Tickets are available online & at the gate

1. Its new location has must-see updates

If you’ve never been to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, you can now spend your very first visit at its brand new location. The Zoo opened its new location in 2022 and was the first ZAA-accredited US zoo to be built from the ground up in over 20 years! Bonus: It’s just four miles from the beach.  

• Close-up views of exhibits
• Animal-themed gift shop 
• Theme-park family entertainment
• Unique animal adventures
• Wide sidewalks and lots of rest stops + benches
• And more!

2. There are lots of up-close animal experiences

Did you know the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has over 300 animals? This includes 199 species, 31 subspecies and 22 endangered species.

The best way to satisfy your curiosity about all of the animals you’ll see at this zoo is to plan a visit and see for yourself. However, I’m going to share some of the cool animals and creatures you’ll find when you go. Here are a few that are sure to amaze you:

• American Alligator
• Black Leopard (near threatened)
• Hamadryas Baboon
• Ring-tailed Lemur
• South American Alpaca
• Spur-thighed tortoise
• Squirrel Monkey
• Umbrella Cockatoo

There is even a petting zoo and reptile house for animals cuddly and slimy alike.

Want to plan a trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo? Plan now with Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism.

3. You’ll encounter sloths, lemurs + more during up-close animal encounters

If you’ve ever wished you could see wild animals up close without barriers like fences and glass keeping you at a distance, I’m about to grant your wish. At the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, you can meet and discover several unique creatures when you attend an Animal Adventure.

Here are the animals you can meet:

Giraffes: Pop quiz—what color is a giraffe’s tongue? If you guessed black, you’re correct! You can actually see them in person and feed them when you visit Twiga Station at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

• Age Requirement: All ages welcome
• Cost: $5 per person
• Tickets can be purchased the day of your visit

Kangaroos: Hop this way to Coola Springs Walkabout to meet Australia’s most iconic animal–the red kangaroo.Think small because this animal adventure lets you meet young kangaroos, which are called joeys.

• Age requirement: 3+
• Cost: $24.95 per person + general admission to the zoo 
• Tickets can be purchased the day of your visit

Lemurs: If you loved the DreamWorks Madgascar movies, the Destination: Madagascar Adventure is a must this summer. On this special journey, you’ll meet two types of lemurs: black and white and red ruffed.

• Age requirement: 3+
• Cost: $24.95 per person + general admission to the zoo
• Tickets can be purchased the day of your visit.

Sloths: IDK about you, but I am a huge fan of sloths. They may not move much, but they sure are smiley. On the South American Adventure, you’ll walk along a boardwalk into the “jungle” to meet a variety of animals from the tropical rainforest of Central and South America. Some to expect on your journey: tortoises, macaws and, of course, sloths.

• Age Requirement: All ages welcome
• Cost: $24.95 per person + general admission to the zoo
• Tickets can be purchased the day of your visit.

4. It’s the perfect spot for a day trip or family outing

If you think the zoo is just for young kids, think again. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is a great destination for all ages—from young families pushing kid-filled strollers to casual first dates and even seniors seeking some fresh air and sunshine. Plus, it’s ADA accessible.

Along with the Zoo’s incredible list of animals, it also includes designated picnic areas. So bring your own picnic basket packed with your favorites and enjoy an afternoon of food and friends.

5. The walkthrough aviary will make you wish you could fly

Ever wished you could fly? You’ll become one with the birds when you visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo’s walkthrough aviary. This magical spot features bird species from all over the world. Watch them free-fly throughout this interactive exhibit and explore the gardens. 

Don’t be surprised if some of these fabulous birds land on you. Be camera-ready and snap the ultimate Instagram photo when it happens.

Ready to experience the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo? Book your trip now with Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism. 

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