About ZooTampa at Lowry Park
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a 63-acre nonprofit zoo that has been consistently ranked among the top zoos in the United States. The zoo is home to over 1,300 animals representing more than 200 species and operates a critical Florida Manatee rehabilitation center. The zoo is known for its lush tropical setting, immersive habitats, and conservation-focused mission.
History of ZooTampa at Lowry Park
ZooTampa (formerly Lowry Park Zoo) has served the Tampa Bay community since 1957. The zoo underwent a major transformation in the 2000s and 2010s, earning recognition as the number one zoo in the US from publications including Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Parents Magazine. The zoo's David A. Straz Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center is one of only three facilities in Florida licensed to care for injured manatees.
Park Areas & Lands
🦒 Africa
African savanna habitat with giraffes, elephants, zebras, and meerkats. The giraffe feeding station is a guest favorite.
🐒 Primate World
Habitats for multiple primate species including orangutans, chimpanzees, and lowland gorillas.
🐊 Florida Wildlife
Native Florida animals including Florida panthers, black bears, red wolves, and the manatee rehabilitation center.
🦘 Wallaroo Station
Family area with Australian wildlife, a petting zoo, and children's rides.
Must-Do Attractions
- Manatee Critical Care Center - One of only three licensed manatee rehabilitation facilities in Florida - watch rescued manatees being cared for before release
- Giraffe Feeding - Hand-feed Masai giraffes at the elevated feeding platform - one of the most popular experiences at the zoo
- Roaring Springs Water Ride - A log flume water ride through tropical scenery - unusual for a zoo and a fun surprise for visitors
- Florida Panther Habitat - Viewing area for the critically endangered Florida panther - one of the rarest large mammals in the world
- Orangutan Habitat - Expansive naturalistic habitat for Bornean orangutans with elevated platforms and enrichment activities
Insider Tips
- ZooTampa is a nonprofit - your admission directly supports animal conservation and manatee rescue efforts
- The giraffe feeding station ($7 per person) sells out on busy days - do it early in your visit
- Morning hours offer the best animal activity and cooler temperatures for walking
- The zoo is much more intimate than larger theme parks - allow 3-4 hours for a full visit
- Behind-the-scenes tours offer close encounters with specific animals for an additional fee
- The zoo's Creatures of the Night (Halloween) and Christmas in the Wild events are popular seasonal experiences
Best Times to Visit
ZooTampa is least crowded on weekday mornings during the school year. The zoo is busiest on weekends, holidays, and during school field trip season (spring). Animals are most active in the morning hours and on cooler days. Summer afternoons see the lowest attendance but also the hottest temperatures.
Tickets & Pricing
Adult tickets $44.95, children (3-11) $34.95, seniors $39.95. Parking is free. Behind-the-scenes tours from $30+. Giraffe feeding $7. Annual memberships from $90 for individuals.
Dining at ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Safari Cafe offers burgers, salads, and sandwiches in a covered pavilion. Kat's Kitchen serves pizza and chicken tenders. The Canopy Cafe near Africa features African-inspired dishes. Multiple snack stands offer ice cream, churros, and cold drinks.
Official Resources
Group Visit to ZooTampa at Lowry Park? BusBrother drops your group at the front gate and picks you up after the fireworks. No parking fees, no rideshare surge. Round trip, multi-stop, ADA accessible. Get a free quote.