Explore the Wonders of Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo
Discover the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, an educational gem in Gainesville, Florida, where wildlife encounters and learning come together in a unique setting.
A brief summary to Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo
- 3000 NW 83 St Building Z, Gainesville, Florida, 32606, US
- +1352-395-5633
Nestled in the heart of Gainesville, Florida, the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo is a unique attraction that provides an immersive educational experience for visitors. As a fully operational teaching zoo, it plays a vital role in the education of students in the zoo animal technology program, while simultaneously offering the public an opportunity to engage with a variety of animal species. The zoo is home to over 75 species, including exotic birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, all housed in well-maintained enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the pathways that wind through the zoo, allowing for close encounters with animals while learning about their behaviors and conservation efforts. The zoo emphasizes the importance of wildlife education, offering daily presentations that highlight the unique characteristics of its inhabitants. Children and adults alike will be captivated by interactive exhibits, including animal encounters and educational programs, making it a perfect family-friendly destination. The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo is open year-round, with operating hours accommodating both weekdays and weekends, ensuring that tourists can conveniently fit a visit into their travel itinerary. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking educational entertainment, or simply looking for a serene environment to explore, this remarkable zoo promises an enriching experience that deepens your appreciation for the animal kingdom.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can be busy with families.
- Check the schedule for daily animal presentations to enhance your visit with educational insights.
- Bring a camera to capture moments with animals and the beautiful scenery of the zoo.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring various paths throughout the zoo.
- Consider visiting during cooler times of the year, as the Florida heat can be intense in summer.
Getting There
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Public Bus
Start at the nearest bus stop to your location in Gainesville. You can use the local bus service, RTS (Regional Transit System). Check the RTS schedule for the nearest bus line that goes towards the Santa Fe College area. If you are starting from downtown Gainesville, take Bus Route 1 or Route 3, which generally stops near the college area. After riding for approximately 20-30 minutes, disembark at the nearest stop to Santa Fe College, which is likely to be on NW 83rd Street. From there, walk towards the college campus, following the signs to the Teaching Zoo, which is located in Building Z. The zoo is a short walk from the bus stop.
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Bicycle
If you're comfortable riding a bicycle, you can rent one from local bike rental shops or use a bike-sharing service. Start from your current location and navigate towards NW 83rd Street. You can use bike lanes and quieter streets to reach Santa Fe College. The campus is bike-friendly, and you can park your bike near the entrance of the Teaching Zoo, which is located in Building Z. The ride should take about 15-30 minutes depending on your starting point.
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Walking
If you are within walking distance of Santa Fe College, head towards NW 83rd Street. Follow the street signs to guide you to the college campus. Once you arrive at the campus, look for Building Z, which houses the Teaching Zoo. The walk may take approximately 20-40 minutes depending on your starting location.
Attractions Nearby to Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo
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San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park
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Cofrin Nature Park
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Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park
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Clear Lake Nature Park
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Jacobitz Winter Wonderland
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Escape Key - Room Escape Game
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Loblolly Woods Nature Park
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Wynwood Murals
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Harn Museum of Art
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Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
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Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History
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Florida Museum of Natural History-Exhibits
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UF Bat Houses
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Alfred A. Ring Park
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Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Park
Landmarks nearby to Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo
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John Mahon Nature Park
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Celebration Pointe
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University of Florida
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Swamp Head Brewery
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Turlington Rock
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Plaza of The Americas
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Pleasant Street Historic District (Gainesville, Florida)
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The Hatchetbury
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Artisans' Guild Gallery
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Gainesville Escape Game
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Florida Theater
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Volta Coffee, Tea & Chocolate
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High Dive
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Josiah T. Walls Historical Marker
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The Atlantic Nightspot