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This Is Why You’ll Love the Gulf Shores Alabama Zoo

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The Gulf Shores Alabama Zoo, also known as Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, is passionate about the wellbeing of their animals and sharing the experience of getting to know over 500 majestic and wondrous creatures with you! Since the zoo relies only on the income they receive from admission tickets, you can contribute to the continued care of hundreds of animals while enjoying all the fun-filled and family friendly activities this zoo offers.

History of Gulf Shores Alabama Zoo

First opened in 1989 as Zooland Animal Park, it served as a private enterprise by Joey Ward of Gulf Shores. Only two years later, the Ward family founded the Zoo Foundation Inc., a nonprofit organization that donated 17 acres of land that currently make up the zoo. 13 more acres of land were donated a few years later by the Ward family and the Erie Meyer Foundation, which have yet to be developed. Throughout the years, the zoo has thrived from the community's strong support and the generous donations from several businesses and patrons. The continued support from these donors and visitors ensures the longevity of the facility and a home for the many Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo animals that live there.

Things to Do at Gulf Shores Alabama Zoo

The main mission of the zoo is to provide its guests with a one-of-a-kind educational experience through their animals. They believe their creatures are not just there for showcase, but to represent their species and inspire people to make a difference in the lives of endangered animals.
Animal Viewings and Encounters: There are many animals to visit at the Gulf Shores Alabama Zoo including tigers, wolves, panthers, sloths, monkeys, and more! You also have the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the animals at the zoo through their encounters. Cuddle one of the baby Red Kangaroos, make a visit to the Lemur Playhouse, or take a walk on the wild side through the Reptile Garden featuring lizards, turtles, and gators of all kinds. It's a unique experience the whole family will enjoy.

Annual Events: Fun-filled events take place at the zoo all year-round, so check the calendar of events regularly to see what activities you and your family can get involved in! During the summer, the kids may enjoy a summer retreat at Zoo Camp where they will spend the days exploring animal life through enrichment activities, meeting some of the animals, playing age-specific games, and practicing craft projects. Also be sure to visit for special holidays like Halloween and Christmas for themed celebrations and even more animal meet and greets!

Become a Gulf Shores Alabama Zoo Member

If you enjoyed your visit to the zoo and want to come back again and again, five different memberships are offered for those loyal patrons and allow them special privileges throughout the year. You may choose the Family Membership, which allows both parents and all their children under 18 free admission year-round, a Friendship Membership for unlimited visits for you and up to one guest, or the Group Membership which entitles the member plus five guests as many visits as they desire for one full year! It's a great way to contribute to the zoo while saving a bit of cash yourself.

Experience More of This Tropical Paradise When You Stay With Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals

We started our business in Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals after falling in love with the region's gorgeous white sand beaches and lively atmosphere, and we're sure you will too when you take your next getaway with us. Most of our properties are located on quiet and pristine beaches that are also nearby all the activities there are to do in the area, so a fun-filled and relaxing vacation is just what you'll find. We'd love to introduce ourselves and help you start planning your next beachside vacation today! Download our Vacation Guide for information on the many Gulf Shores points of interest including the Gulf Shores Alabama Zoo!

Photo Credit: klebercordeiro / Getty Images