Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Description:

• This community zoo has come a long way since it was born in 1923 when a circus came to town, leaving a monkey and a goat behind. The monkey rode the goat in the earliest show. Today, the animal collection includes beautiful clouded leopards, cheetahs, and black-footed cats, all of which are endangered. You'll also meet black howler monkeys, siamangs, American crocodiles, a banded Egyptian cobra, a Gila monster, barred owls, bald eagles, and dozens of other species. Recent additions include the alligator and crocodile viewing deck, an insect zoo, and a hyacinth macaw exhibit. Allow 2 to 3 hours. Recent additions include ZOOm Air Adventure Park, the first aerial adventure course of its kind in the U.S., and a Tropical Splash Ground. Pricing is separate from the zoo and runs $20 to $35, but combination tickets are available. Tip: One-year memberships that include additional perks and free admission to this and 100 other participating zoos and aquariums across the country are available. A family membership is $79, which, depending on your family's size, may be more economical than purchasing individual tickets, especially if there's a member zoo in your area.

• © Frommer's 2012