Discover the Wonders of Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Explore the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: A unique blend of wildlife, education, and stunning botanical beauty in Jacksonville, Florida.
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a captivating destination for tourists, offering a unique blend of wildlife and horticulture. With over 2,000 animals and an expansive botanical garden, it promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
A brief summary to Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
- 370 Zoo Pkwy, Jacksonville, Northside, Florida, 32218, US
- +1904-757-4463
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and see animals more active.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking a lot, and consider bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Check the zoo's event calendar for special animal encounters or feeding times for a unique experience.
- Plan to spend at least half a day at the zoo to fully enjoy all exhibits and gardens.
Getting There
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Bus
From downtown Jacksonville, head to the nearest bus stop and catch the JTA bus route 10 (the 10 bus goes toward the Northside). Make sure to check the schedule for the next bus. Ride the bus until you reach the stop at Zoo Parkway and the Zoo's entrance. The ride typically takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Once you get off the bus, follow the signs to the entrance of Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, which is just a short walk away.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous and want to bike, you can rent a bike in downtown Jacksonville. Head north on the Northbank Riverwalk until you reach the intersection with Bay Street. Turn left onto Bay Street and continue until you reach the intersection with Zoo Parkway. Turn right onto Zoo Parkway and follow it until you reach Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. The bike ride is roughly 6 miles and should take about 30-40 minutes.
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Walking
Walking to Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens from downtown is quite a trek, approximately 6 miles. Start at the Jacksonville Landing and head north along the riverfront to the intersection with Bay Street. Follow Bay Street north until you reach Zoo Parkway. Turn right onto Zoo Parkway and continue walking straight. You will see the zoo entrance on your left. This walk will take around 1.5 to 2 hours, so wear comfortable shoes and consider bringing water!
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Rideshare
If you prefer a more comfortable option, use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Open the app and set 'Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens' as your destination. The driver will pick you up from your current location and take you directly to the zoo. Depending on traffic, the ride should take about 15-30 minutes from most parts of Jacksonville.
Discover more about Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
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