If you are looking for some outdoor entertainment that’s a bit more on the “wild” side, check out ZooTampa at Lowry Park. This 56-acre park features lush, tropical landscaping and a variety of endangered, threatened, and vulnerable species from around the world.
Summer is almost here, so now is the perfect time to pack your sunscreen, grab a hat and water bottle, and spend the day at ZooTampa enjoying some of these popular senior-friendly activities!
Get to Know the Animals
ZooTampa’s goal is to inspire visitors to protect and preserve wildlife. To help you get a feel for the animals’ natural habitats, the zoo is divided into themed areas and exhibits devoted to Asia, Africa, Australia, and Florida. Each animal habitat was designed to integrate the maximum well-being of these threatened and endangered animals with an engaging and educational experience for the guests.
A visit to ZooTampa is a great opportunity to meet an adorable pygmy hippo family, be amazed by the enormity of a southern white rhino, and check in on one of our locals, the Florida manatee, at the David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center.
The ZooTampa staff offers guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with the zoo residents through a variety of animal encounters, including behind-the-scenes tours, a giraffe meet and greet, and a koala photo op.
Enjoy the Ride
If coming face to face with an African elephant isn’t exciting enough, ZooTampa has amusement rides suitable for various age groups and thrill levels situated throughout the park. Try a trip down Roaring Springs (warning, you will get splashed!), a turn on the Jungle Carousel, or an open-air safari ride through animal habitats on Expedition Africa.
Do Feed the People
No day at the zoo is complete without an ice cream, a cold drink, or a hot dog. ZooTampa has refreshments to suit every taste, from hamburgers and fish tacos to coffee and ice cream. You can even swing by the beer and wine garden for an ice-cold adult beverage and a gourmet cheese tray.
Stay Tuned for Special Events
ZooTampa puts on several animal-themed special events throughout the year. In November and December, come and spread some holiday cheer during Christmas in the Wild. Or find your zoo Zen during a Yoga in the Wild event.
ZooTampa also hosts several annual fund-raising events — such as the Karamu Gala — to support conservation, animal care, and community educational programs.
Become a Zoo Member
Membership at ZooTampa is a great way to support the animals and get some exclusive perks for yourself. Members receive unlimited admissions to the zoo and access to special events, such as Creatures of the Night and Dinos Alive!; discounts on dining, shopping, and animal encounters; and invitations to members-only events.
In the fall, ZooTampa participates in SWAPtember, in which zoo members get free admission to the Florida Aquarium and the Museum of Science & Industry during the month of September.
Learn More About ZooTampa
If you’d like to learn more about some of the zoo’s most interesting residents and the programs and events it supports, check out its blog, The Call, or read its latest news.
There are many activities for seniors to enjoy at Lowry Park. But as Florida takes steps to reopen recreation and entertainment venues safely over the next weeks and months, please be aware that times and admission capacity at ZooTampa may be subject to change.
Be sure to call the zoo prior to your visit to get the latest information about hours of operation or other policy changes that may affect your trip.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park
1101 W. Sligh Ave.
Tampa, FL 33604
813-935-8552