ZooTampa at Lowry Park
ZooTampa at Lowry Park, often still referred to by longtime visitors as Lowry Park Zoo, is one of the Tampa area’s best-known family attractions. Located in Tampa, the zoo covers about 60 acres and is home to more than 1,000 animals representing Florida species and wildlife from around the world. It is especially well known for immersive habitats, conservation work, and its long-running focus on animal care and public education.
Visitors will find a mix of animal exhibits, kid-friendly rides and play areas, seasonal programming, and opportunities to learn more about wildlife protection. Whether you are interested in Florida natives, African hoofstock, primates, or hands-on family activities, ZooTampa offers a full day of sightseeing that appeals to children, casual visitors, and dedicated animal lovers alike.
Exhibits and Attractions
1. Florida Wilds
Florida Wilds highlights the ecosystems and animals that make the Sunshine State unique. This area typically focuses on native wildlife and conservation messaging, with habitats that may feature species such as Florida panthers, black bears, alligators, and other animals connected to the state’s wetlands and wild spaces.
- Manatee Critical Care Center: ZooTampa is nationally recognized for manatee rescue and rehabilitation. Its manatee care facilities help injured, sick, or orphaned manatees recover before release when possible, and guest viewing opportunities may vary depending on animal-care needs.
2. Primate World
Primate World gives guests a chance to observe a variety of primates in thoughtfully designed habitats. Depending on the current animal collection and habitat availability, visitors may see species such as orangutans, chimpanzees, tamarins, and other primates engaging in climbing, foraging, and social behaviors.
3. African Habitats
ZooTampa’s African animal areas showcase several iconic species associated with the continent’s grasslands and forests. Guests may encounter animals such as giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and other African wildlife, with exhibits designed to create a more immersive sense of place.
- Ituri Forest: This themed section is associated with forest species from Africa and has been known for animals such as pygmy hippos, okapi, and tropical birds, though residents and viewing opportunities can change over time.
4. Wallaroo Station
Wallaroo Station is a favorite with families and younger children. The area is themed around Australian wildlife and family play, and it may include animals such as kangaroos, koalas, emus, and other Australian species along with rides, splash features, and playground-style spaces.
- Koala Education: ZooTampa has long been associated with koala care and public education, making Wallaroo Station one of the zoo’s most memorable areas for guests interested in Australian wildlife and conservation.
5. Asian Habitats
ZooTampa also features Asian-themed animal areas, where guests may see species such as tigers, Indian rhinoceros, Komodo dragons, and other wildlife from across the continent. Landscaped settings and interpretation help connect the animals to their natural environments and conservation challenges.
6. Aviaries, Family Rides, and Animal Experiences
In addition to traditional exhibit trails, ZooTampa offers family attractions that may include bird habitats, rides, water-play areas, and select animal encounters. Availability can change based on weather, staffing, maintenance, seasonal schedules, and animal welfare considerations.
Conservation and Education
ZooTampa is widely recognized for its commitment to conservation, rescue, and public education. Beyond displaying animals, the zoo supports efforts tied to species survival, veterinary care, wildlife rehabilitation, and guest awareness about habitat protection and responsible stewardship.
- Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation: The zoo is especially known for its work with manatees, providing medical care and rehabilitation support for animals that have been injured, stranded, or otherwise compromised in the wild.
- Florida Wildlife Conservation: Through animal care, interpretation, and partnerships, ZooTampa helps spotlight the needs of native Florida species and the habitats they depend on.
- Species Survival Plans and Animal Care: ZooTampa participates in accredited animal-management and conservation efforts, including programs designed to help sustain healthy populations of threatened and endangered species in professional care.
The zoo also offers camps, educational programming, and special experiences that help children and adults better understand wildlife, ecology, and conservation. Program schedules and offerings can change throughout the year, so checking the official calendar before your visit is a good idea.
Tampa is known for its vibrant culture, waterfront scenery, and family-friendly attractions. In addition to ZooTampa, the city offers several major destinations, including Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, and Tampa Riverwalk, making it easy to build a full weekend itinerary around your zoo visit.
Tampa also features a strong dining scene, interesting museums, nearby parks, and access to outdoor recreation year-round. That makes ZooTampa a convenient addition to a broader visit focused on family entertainment, local culture, and Florida wildlife experiences.
Vicinity of ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Nearby Attractions
- Tampa’s Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)
Explore interactive science exhibits, a planetarium, and hands-on displays about space, technology, and more. - Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Experience thrilling rides, exciting animal exhibits, and live shows at this African-themed adventure park. - Glazer Children’s Museum
Let kids explore engaging, interactive exhibits that encourage learning and creativity in this family-friendly museum. - Tampa Riverwalk
Stroll along this scenic pathway that runs through downtown Tampa, offering views of the water, dining, and cultural attractions.
Additional Details
- Location: ZooTampa at Lowry Park is located at 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604.
- Hours of Operation: Hours vary by date, season, and special events. Check the official website before visiting for the latest daily schedule.
- Admission: Ticket options and pricing can change. Standard daytime admission generally covers the main zoo grounds and many regular attractions, while select encounters, special events, or premium experiences may require an additional fee. Buying tickets in advance is often recommended.
- Parking: On-site parking is available. Parking fees, entry procedures, and transportation policies may change, so confirm current details before arrival.
- Accessibility: Much of the zoo is designed to be accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, and accessibility services may be available. Because of the live animal environment, some access policies, rentals, and service-animal restrictions should be reviewed on the official website in advance.
- Dining and Shopping: Guests can usually find casual dining, snacks, beverages, and gift-shopping options throughout the park. Specific venues and operating hours may vary by day.
Why Visit ZooTampa at Lowry Park?
ZooTampa combines animal exhibits, conservation work, and family entertainment in a way that makes it more than a standard walk-through zoo. Visitors can explore Florida wildlife, learn about rescue and rehabilitation, enjoy kid-friendly attractions, and spend time in themed habitats representing several parts of the world. It is a strong choice for families, animal enthusiasts, and travelers looking for an easy-to-reach Tampa attraction with broad appeal.
For current hours, tickets, special events, and accessibility details, visit the official website: https://zootampa.org 
