4. The ZOOm Air Adventures offer a treetop view

Image: Central Florida Zoo

You can enjoy a truly unique look at the zoo with the ZOOm Air Adventures course. This course includes bridges, zip lines, and suspended disks that let you look down on the park from above. Move like an animal through the canopy of the trees with this unique adventure. ZOOm Air Adventures is operated by a separate company and does have its own admission. The kids’ course is for children at least 4 years old and between 36” and 60” tall. The Upland course is for participants over 54” tall.

5. The splash pad is included for free

Image: Central Florida Zoo

There’s no question that Central Florida can become almost unbearably hot, particularly during the summer months. The zoo is prepared to help you cool down with a stunning water playground, included with your admission. The Splash Ground features raining trees, a bucket dump, and several animal-themed features. Though it’s open year-round, the Splash Ground does close if the temperature is below 60 degrees.

6. You can ride a 1/5-scale train

Image: Central Florida Zoo

Champ the Train is a 1/5-scale replica of the Florida East Coast Champion. The train circles a mile-long track and offers a unique look at the wetlands and woods. It also travels through a 110-foot tunnel. Life-size animal images decorate the trail, giving you plenty of fun things to look for. The train opens at 10:00am daily and closes at 4:00pm on weekdays and 5:00pm on weekends.

7. Children can get hands-on with insects

Image: Central Florida Zoo

If your children love to get out and explore the world of creepy-crawlies, they’ll love the Massey Services Insect Zoo at the Central Florida Zoo. This area includes both live and mounted specimens so you can get a good look at the various creatures on display. In the children’s play area, you’ll find puppets, puzzles, and costumes to take the exploration to a new level.

8. The animal exhibits are extensive

Image: Central Florida Zoo

The Central Florida Zoo is home to nearly 200 species and more than 500 animals. The mammal exhibits include a stunning array of creatures including bats, camels, North American river otters, two-toed sloths, and warthogs. Fans of the great cats won’t be disappointed with cougars, cheetahs, clouded leopards, and black-footed cats on hand. Whether you're interested in exploring an African plain or lush jungle, you'll finds lots to take in.

If you’re looking for an animal experience that won’t take a huge chunk out of your vacation budget, the Central Florida Zoo is an excellent alternative to the theme parks. Fill an extra day here for less than $20 a person and enjoy an up-close experience with hundreds of stunning creatures.