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Visiting ZooTampa at Lowry Park in Tampa, Florida – Prices, Tips, and Info

Plan Your Visit to ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Preparing for your day at ZooTampa helps ensure a rewarding and enjoyable experience connecting with wildlife and conservation efforts. Below is essential information for planning your visit.

ZooTampa – Ticket Information

Purchase Options

ZooTampa tickets can be bought online ahead of time or at the entrance. Purchasing tickets online in advance is advised to secure your preferred visit date, especially during busy periods and seasonal events.

Types of Tickets

Visitors can choose from several ticket options including single day admission, Pay For A Day tickets (valid through December 31, 2025, with some restrictions), blockout upgrade tickets for special event days, and exclusive tickets for animal encounters such as Signature Encounters. Zoo Memberships offering unlimited visits and additional perks are also available.

Pricing

Ticket costs vary based on admission type, with special pricing for group rates, field trips, and fundraising events. Blockout dates and upgrade ticket details should be reviewed when planning your visit.

Timings of ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Picture Courtesy ZooTampa at Lowry Park
  • Christmas Day (Thursday, Dec 25): Closed
  • Spring Break (March 15–23): 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Saturdays & Sundays (March 29–April 27): 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Thanksgiving (Thursday, Nov 27): Closed
  • Christmas Eve (Wednesday, Dec 24): 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Best Times to Visit ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Mornings Right After Opening (9:30 AM – 11:30 AM)

Arriving early lets you explore before the Florida sun gets too hot and before the crowds build. Many animals are more active in the morning, giving you a better chance to see them up close as they play, eat, or roam their habitats.

During Special Events & Seasonal Programs

ZooTampa frequently hosts family-friendly events like ZooBoo, Christmas in the Wild, and springtime celebrations. Planning your visit during these special programs adds extra entertainment, themed activities, and unique seasonal experiences to your day.

Weekdays (Tuesday – Thursday)

Midweek visits tend to be calmer compared to weekends. If you’re looking to move at your own pace, enjoy shorter lines, and have more one-on-one time at interactive exhibits or rides, weekdays are ideal.

Cooler Months (Late Fall – Early Spring)

Florida summers can get hot and humid, so visiting during cooler months makes walking the park more comfortable. Plus, the animals are often livelier in milder weather, making for a more engaging experience.

Location and Address of ZooTampa at Lowrey Park

Picture Courtesy ZooTampa at Lowry Park

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is conveniently located just minutes from downtown Tampa, making it easy to reach whether you’re driving in from the city, nearby beaches, or the greater Tampa Bay area. Surrounded by lush greenery, the zoo sits along the Hillsborough River, offering visitors both a central location and a scenic setting for a day of adventure.

  • Address ZooTampa at Lowry Park
    1101 W Sligh Ave,
    Tampa, FL 33604, USA

How to Get to ZooTampa at Lowry Park in Tampa, Florida

  • ZooTampa is located just 15 minutes from downtown Tampa, making it an easy drive for city visitors.
  • If you’re flying in, the zoo is about 20 minutes from Tampa International Airport, so you can head straight there after landing.
  • The zoo provides ample on-site parking for a daily fee, with designated spaces available for accessible parking and oversized vehicles.
  • Simply enter the zoo’s address into your GPS or navigation app, and you’ll be guided to the quickest route.
  • The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) system runs buses that stop near ZooTampa, making public transportation a convenient choice.
  • Several HART routes pass within walking distance of the main entrance, so you won’t need to worry about long transfers.
  • It’s best to check the official HART website or app for the latest routes and schedules before planning your trip.
  • While Tampa doesn’t have a train station directly at the zoo, Amtrak’s Tampa Union Station is only about 15 minutes away by car.
  • From Union Station, you can easily book a rideshare, taxi, or shuttle service to reach the zoo without hassle.
  • This option works well for visitors traveling to Tampa from other Florida cities by train.
  • ZooTampa is bike-friendly, with racks available near the entrance for secure parking.
  • Cycling is a great way for nearby residents to reach the zoo while avoiding parking and traffic.
  • Walking is practical if you live in the surrounding neighborhood, though the area is more suited to local foot traffic than long pedestrian commutes.
  • Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Tampa and can drop you directly at ZooTampa’s entrance.
  • This is a stress-free option if you prefer not to drive or deal with parking fees.
  • Taxis are also available across the city and are especially convenient from hotels, downtown, or the airport.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park: Additional Information

Onsite Facilities

  • Restrooms Conveniently located throughout the zoo, including family restrooms with baby-changing stations.
  • Dining Options Enjoy casual meals, snacks, and drinks at cafés and concession stands across the park.
  • Gift Shops Find plush animals, apparel, souvenirs, and eco-friendly products at themed gift shops.
  • Parking Paid parking available on-site, with spaces for oversized vehicles and accessible parking near the entrance.
  • Stroller, Wheelchair & Scooter Rentals Available on a first-come, first-served basis at the entrance.
  • First Aid Station Staffed with trained medical professionals to assist guests as needed.
  • Shaded Rest Areas Relax in designated shaded spots and picnic areas between exhibits.

Accessibility Features

  • Wheelchair Accessibility All exhibits and major pathways are wheelchair- and stroller-friendly.
  • Rental Services Manual wheelchairs, electric convenience vehicles (ECVs), and strollers are available for rent.
  • Accessible Parking Reserved accessible spaces are located near the main entrance.
  • Service Animals Trained service animals are welcome throughout the zoo with safety guidelines in place.
  • Sensory-Friendly Resources Quiet zones, sensory-friendly programs, and guides are available for guests with sensory needs.
  • Inclusive Exhibits Many exhibits feature low viewing areas and interactive displays for guests with varying mobility levels.

Visitor Guidelines

  • Tickets Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and skip the ticket line.
  • Arrival Time Arrive early for cooler weather and more active animals.
  • Photography Personal photography is welcome, but flash, tripods, and selfie sticks are not permitted.
  • Food & Beverages Outside food and drinks are not allowed, except for baby food and medical necessities.
  • Water Bottles Guests may bring reusable water bottles; refill stations are available throughout the zoo.
  • Children Supervision Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • Re-Entry Policy Same-day re-entry is allowed with a hand stamp at the exit gate.

Rules and Regulations

  • Animal Safety Feeding or touching animals is permitted only in designated encounter areas.
  • No Smoking Smoking, vaping, and e-cigarettes are prohibited inside the zoo.
  • Guest Conduct Running, climbing fences, or entering restricted areas is strictly forbidden.
  • Prohibited Items Weapons, alcohol, illegal substances, large coolers, and drones are not permitted.
  • Emergency Procedures Guests must follow all staff instructions in case of an emergency or severe weather.
  • Re-Entry Policy Same-day re-entry is allowed with a hand stamp at the exit gate.

Dining at ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Macaw’s Landing Café (Manatee Circle)

About: Located near the entrance, this café offers indoor and outdoor seating and serves classic American fare.

Specialty Items: Burgers, sandwiches, salads, kids’ meals, fries, shakes, soft-serve ice cream, alongside beverage options including beer and wine.

Timing: Open during zoo operating hours—generally 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Boardwalk Dogs & Boardwalk Treats (Carousel Circle)

About: A casual hot dog stand offering a variety of sausages with customizable toppings.

Specialty Items: Sweet-tooth heaven featuring ice cream, milkshakes, floats, cotton candy, cookies, and more.

Timing: Available throughout the zoo's open hours.

The Outpost (Australia Realm)

About: Great for families on the move, offering made-to-order or ready-to-serve meals.

Specialty Items: Cold-cut sandwiches, wraps, pulled-pork grilled cheese, loaded mac & cheese, chicken fingers, and more.

Timing: Operates during park hours

Boomerang Bar (Australia Realm)

About: A lively bar where guests can relax with a snack or drink.

Specialty Items: Smoothies from Planet Smoothie, beer, mocktails, and grab-and-go snacks.

Timing: Open during zoo hours, with possible extended hours (especially during evening seasonal events)

Wendy’s Frosty Cart (Australia Realm)

About: A mobile cart serving the classic Wendy’s Frosty with a fun twist.

Specialty Items: Vanilla or chocolate Frosty, plus infused-flavor variations.

Timing: Available during regular zoo hours.

Savanna Oasis (Africa Realm)

About: A relaxed beer & wine garden featuring casual dining options.

Specialty Items: Pizza by the slice or whole pie, wings, salads, beer, and wine.

Member Perks: Members enjoy a free beer sample during "Member Happy Hour" (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM) and access to secret menu items.

Timing: Open during park hours; Member Happy Hour applies during that 1:00–3:00 PM window.

Chakula Canteen (Africa Realm)

About: A quick-stop eatery located across from Savanna Oasis.

Timing: Available during standard zoo hours

Specialty Items: Build-your-own nachos and BBQ-style offerings.

Shopping at ZooTampa - Nature’s Kingdom Gift Shop

About

Located at the main entrance, Nature’s Kingdom is ZooTampa’s largest and most comprehensive gift shop. It’s the perfect stop both at the start and end of your visit, offering a wide variety of merchandise that supports the zoo’s conservation mission.

Specialty Items

i. Exclusive plush toys—including best-selling giraffes, manatee-themed items, and zoo mascot Manny T merchandise.

ii. Apparel like T-shirts for both kids and adults featuring the zoo’s branding and wildlife imagery.

iii. Giftware such as mugs, jewelry, and beach-inspired décor—especially popular with adult visitors.

iv. Conservation-themed items that reinforce the zoo’s mission, like eco-friendly water bottles and exclusive seasonal plush, e.g., for Manatee Awareness Month.

Timings

Nature’s Kingdom is open during the zoo’s regular hours—typically 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily, including seasonal extended hours and holiday exceptions.

Special Activities at ZooTampa at Lowry Park

  • About Stand eye-to-eye with gentle giraffes and hand-feed them in one of the zoo’s most loved experiences. Perfect for photos and up-close interactions.
  • Timings Wednesdays–Fridays: 1:00 PM & 1:30 PM
    Saturdays–Sundays: 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM & 1:30 PM
  • Note
  • About Step into the world of playful penguins and get a chance to meet these charming birds up close while learning about their care.
  • Timings Daily at 12:00 PM & 12:30 PM
  • Note Advance booking is needed.
  • About Tampa’s premier Halloween event transforms the zoo into a family-friendly, spooky wonderland with themed zones, entertainment, and unique animal encounters.
  • Timings Select nights in October (evenings).
  • Note Special admission tickets required.
  • About A magical holiday event featuring one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, festive décor, seasonal treats, and joyful entertainment for all ages.
  • Timings Select nights in November & December (evenings).
  • Note Included with Zoo admission or membership.
  • About Enter a vibrant aviary filled with colorful lorikeets, and hand-feed them as they perch right on your arm. A fun favorite for families and kids.
  • Timings Daily from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Note Small feeding cup available for a nominal fee.

Special Tips for Visitors

Buy Tickets Online in Advance

Booking tickets ahead of time not only saves you waiting in long lines but also ensures access to special encounters and seasonal events that often sell out quickly.

Visit the ZooTampa Gift Shop

Stop by Safari Traders for plush animals, eco-friendly souvenirs, and Florida-themed gifts to take a piece of the zoo home with you.

Arrive Early in the Day

The zoo opens in the morning, and arriving early lets you enjoy popular exhibits and animal encounters before it gets crowded and warmer in the afternoon.

Plan at Least 3–4 Hours for Your Visit

With more than 1,000 animals, interactive rides, feeding sessions, and seasonal shows, set aside enough time to experience the zoo without rushing.

Don’t Miss the Signature Animal Encounters

Feeding giraffes, visiting the lorikeet aviary, and seeing manatees in their rehabilitation habitat are must-do experiences unique to ZooTampa.

Check the Events Calendar Before You Go

The zoo hosts seasonal favorites like Creatures of the Night (Halloween) and Christmas in the Wild. Checking the schedule helps you plan your visit around these special experiences.

Pack Smartly for Florida Weather

Tampa can be hot and humid, so bring sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles. Stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded or indoor areas of the zoo.

Take Advantage of the Rides

The zoo includes family-friendly rides such as the Expedition Africa Safari Tram and the Carousel—great breaks between walking the exhibits.

Explore the Dining Options

From quick snacks to hearty meals, the zoo’s eateries offer kid-friendly menus and seasonal treats—plan a lunch stop to recharge during your visit.

Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes

The zoo spans 65 acres, and you’ll be on your feet exploring outdoor habitats, trails, and attractions, so supportive footwear is a must.

ZooTampa: Fast Track Admission

Highlights

Avoid waiting in lengthy lines with fast track entry.

Enjoy unlimited access to every ride and attraction inside the park.

Experience captivating walk-and-talk tours and live shows.

Explore the Expedition Wild Africa Safari and other unique exhibits.

Discover rare wildlife including Florida panthers and manatees in naturalistic habitats.

Experience not found.

Tampa Bay CityPASS

Highlights

Gain significant savings, more than half off the usual ticket prices.

Access a diverse selection of popular sites including zoos, aquariums, and theme parks.

Use the convenient My CityPASS® App for booking reservations and essential visitor information.

Enjoy flexible ticket usage, valid for nine consecutive days after first use.

Benefit from swift entrance procedures at several participating venues.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting ZooTampa at Lowry Park

1. What are the zoo's typical opening hours?

ZooTampa is generally open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during select spring dates. Visitors should check event schedules for any variations.

2. Can I bring my own food and drinks to the zoo?

Small snacks, baby food, and formula are allowed along with certain outside food and drinks per the zoo’s food policy. Alcoholic beverages, glass containers, and hard-sided coolers are prohibited.

3. How can I purchase tickets for ZooTampa?

Tickets can be bought online for single-day entry, special experiences, or membership options. Pay For A Day tickets offer admission through December 31, 2025, with some blockout dates.

4. Is the zoo accessible for guests with disabilities?

Yes, ZooTampa provides accessibility options to accommodate guests. Specific details regarding accessibility services are available prior to your visit.

5. Are pets allowed inside the zoo?

Only service animals are permitted. Pets and other animals are not allowed on the premises.

6. What is the policy on ticket blockout dates?

Certain ticket types have blockout dates, especially special offers or discounted tickets. Upgrade tickets can be purchased to access the zoo on those restricted days.

7. Can I participate in special animal encounters during my visit?

Yes, ZooTampa offers unique animal experiences such as Stingray in-water encounters and manatee sessions, which require separate ticket purchases.

8. Is advanced reservation required to visit the zoo?

Advanced ticket purchase is strongly recommended to ensure entry, but reservations are not currently mandatory for general admission.

This website sells official tickets for this venue. Please note, however, that it is not the official website of the venue.

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