Discover the Wonders of Croc Encounters
Explore the wild side of Tampa at Croc Encounters, a unique wildlife park dedicated to crocodiles and conservation.
Nestled in the heart of Tampa, Florida, Croc Encounters is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike. This unique animal park specializes in the conservation and education of reptiles, particularly crocodiles and alligators. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that provide an up-close look at these magnificent creatures, learning about their habitats, behaviors, and the vital role they play in our ecosystem. The park is home to a variety of other exotic animals, making it a rich experience for anyone looking to connect with nature. Croc Encounters stands out not just for its educational tours, but also for its commitment to wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. The facility operates as a wildlife refuge, providing a safe haven for injured or abandoned reptiles. This dedication to animal welfare is evident in the care and attention each resident animal receives. Families can also take advantage of the park's children's party service, ensuring a memorable birthday experience for young animal lovers. The park is open daily, welcoming guests from 8 AM to 8 PM, allowing ample time to explore its grounds. The friendly staff are passionate about wildlife and eager to share their knowledge, making each visit informative and enjoyable. With a combination of fun, education, and conservation efforts, Croc Encounters is a fantastic outing for anyone visiting the Tampa area, promising an experience that will be cherished long after the visit.
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy shorter wait times for tours and animal encounters.
- Don’t forget your camera for incredible photo opportunities with the animals!
- Check the website for special events or educational programs happening during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes; you'll want to explore every corner of this fascinating park.
A brief summary to Croc Encounters
- 8703 Bowles Rd, Tampa, Greater Thonotosassa, Florida, 33637, US
- +1813-217-4400
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Getting There
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Public Bus
From downtown Tampa, take the HART bus number 46 from the Marion Transit Center. The bus will take you towards the intersection of 30th St and Fletcher Ave. After approximately 30 minutes, get off at the stop on Fletcher Ave and 30th St. From there, transfer to bus number 34 towards Thonotosassa. Ride for about 20 minutes until you reach the stop at Bowles Rd. Walk approximately 5 minutes down Bowles Rd to reach Croc Encounters at 8703 Bowles Rd.
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Ride-Sharing Service
Use a ride-sharing app like Uber or Lyft. Input 'Croc Encounters' or the address '8703 Bowles Rd, Tampa, FL 33637' as your destination. The driver will pick you up from your location in Tampa and take you directly to Croc Encounters. This option is convenient and may take around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle from one of the bike-sharing programs in Tampa. Start your journey from downtown Tampa and head north on the Tampa Riverwalk. Follow the path until you reach the intersection of 30th St and Fletcher Ave. From there, ride east on Fletcher Ave, then turn north on 30th St. Continue riding until you reach Bowles Rd, where you will turn east again. It’s about a 10-mile ride, so be prepared for a moderately long journey.
Attractions Nearby to Croc Encounters
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Eureka Springs Park
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Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
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Cracker Country
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Lettuce Lake Park
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Museum of Science & Industry
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Adventure Island
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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream
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Serengeti Safari
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Falcon's Fury
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Kumba
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Congo River Rapids
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USF Botanical Gardens
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Sulphur Springs Water Tower
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Ybor City Center Fountain
Landmarks nearby to Croc Encounters
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Ella’s Americana Folk Art Cafe
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Giunta Homestead and Farm
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The Goods - Coffee & Gifts
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The C House
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9/11 Fallen Heroes Memorial
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Seminole Heights General Store
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Centennial Park
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Arturo Fuente Building
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Palmetto Beach Historic District
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Tampa Bay Tour Company
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Ybor City Gateway
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Ybor City Food Tours, Inc.
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Centro Asturiano de Tampa
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Murder House
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Hamner Tower