
Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo
A unique teaching zoo on a college campus, offering hands-on animal care education and a delightful visitor experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique teaching zoo on a college campus, offering hands-on animal care education and a delightful visitor experience.
"A small but unique little zoo with knowledgeable students and great exhibits!"

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Campus parking can be tough. Leave extra time to find a spot, especially during class hours . :car:
☀️ Beat the Heat
The zoo is shady, but Gainesville gets hot! Visit in the morning or late afternoon for comfort . :sunwithface:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gibbon Family
Primate Exhibit
These agile primates are a major draw, offering a unique glimpse into their social dynamics and vocalizations.

Asian Small-Clawed Otters
Aquatic Exhibit
Watch these playful otters interact and even communicate using special buttons, showcasing innovative animal training.

Bald Eagle
Avian Exhibit
A majestic symbol of the wild, this impressive bird of prey is a must-see for its regal presence and powerful stature.

Student Zookeeper Interactions
Throughout the zoo
Engage with knowledgeable student keepers who share fascinating insights into animal care and behavior.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Weather
Parking & Campus Navigation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Campus parking can be tough. Leave extra time to find a spot, especially during class hours. :car:
☀️ Beat the Heat
The zoo is shady, but Gainesville gets hot! Visit in the morning or late afternoon for comfort. :sunwithface:
❓ Ask the Keepers
Student keepers are a wealth of knowledge! Don't hesitate to ask them questions about the animals. :question:
🐶 Kid-Friendly Fun
There's a nice playground for kids, making it a great stop for families with little ones. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Campus parking can be tough. Leave extra time to find a spot, especially during class hours. :car:
☀️ Beat the Heat
The zoo is shady, but Gainesville gets hot! Visit in the morning or late afternoon for comfort. :sunwithface:
❓ Ask the Keepers
Student keepers are a wealth of knowledge! Don't hesitate to ask them questions about the animals. :question:
🐶 Kid-Friendly Fun
There's a nice playground for kids, making it a great stop for families with little ones. :child:
📅 Check for Closures
Animals may be off-exhibit due to weather. Call ahead or check social media if you're concerned. :umbrella:
🍻 Brew at the Zoo
Don't miss their annual Brew at the Zoo event for a fun evening with drinks and animal encounters. :beer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo for its unique educational focus, friendly and knowledgeable student staff, and a good variety of animals for its size. The affordable admission and shady environment are also frequently highlighted as positives, making it a great family-friendly option. Some note that animals may occasionally be off-exhibit due to weather.
"A must-visit when in Gainesville! While it’s not huge or anything, this zoo has a family of gibbons, which honestly make the trip for me every time. They also have an eagle, lemurs, lots of birds, tortoises, and more. Also recommend their annual brew at the zoo event!"
Anna M
"Amazing zoo with great staff! It's a very clean zoo and it's lay out to see all animals is great! Monkeys, birds, boars, snakes, turtles, Nyala, and so much more! There was a massive peacock walking around the paths, beautiful animal. I suggest! 10 dollars per adult and and 6 bucks with seniors and small children."
Mike B
"A small but unique little zoo. Great paths and great exhibits with lots of knowledgeable students for questions. Also excellent price for the size"
tgeil586
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The zoo is located on the Santa Fe College campus at 3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32606. It's accessible by car and is part of the college's infrastructure. Be prepared for campus parking challenges.
Parking is available on the Santa Fe College campus. However, it can be competitive, especially during class times. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot. Look for designated visitor parking areas.
While specific public transport routes directly to the zoo might be limited, Gainesville has a public bus system (Gator Commuter) that serves the college campus. Check their routes and schedules for the most convenient options.
Driving from downtown Gainesville to the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Factor in extra time for parking.
When driving to the zoo, follow signs for Santa Fe College. Once on campus, look for signs directing you to the Teaching Zoo and its associated parking areas. GPS navigation to 'Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo' is usually accurate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $10 for adults, with reduced prices for seniors and small children. Exact pricing can vary, so it's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead.
The zoo is generally open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.. However, hours can sometimes change for special events or due to weather conditions, so it's wise to confirm before your visit.
For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required. However, for special events like 'Brew at the Zoo,' advance ticket purchase is highly recommended as they can sell out.
Discounts are often available for seniors and small children. Some special events might also offer group rates or early bird pricing. Check their website for the latest discount information.
Yes, you can still visit. However, it's advisable to check with the zoo beforehand if seeing specific animals is a priority, as some may be off-exhibit due to weather or other care-related reasons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors often rave about the gibbon family and the Asian small-clawed otters. You can also see bald eagles, lemurs, various birds, tortoises, and more.
Absolutely! The zoo is a good size for little ones, and it features a nice playground area for them to enjoy.
While direct interaction with most animals is limited for safety, the student keepers are very knowledgeable and happy to answer questions about the animals and their care.
A visit to the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo usually takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at each exhibit. It's a manageable size for a few hours of exploration.
Yes, the zoo hosts events like 'Brew at the Zoo' and 'Zoo Keeper Day,' offering unique after-hours experiences with music, food, and animal encounters.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The zoo typically has limited food concessions on-site. It's a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks, or plan to eat before or after your visit.
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and beverages to enjoy. This is a great option for families or those looking to save money.
Yes, the zoo is located in Gainesville, which offers a wide variety of restaurants. You can find many dining options on or near the Santa Fe College campus, ranging from casual to more formal.
Concession offerings can vary but usually include typical zoo fare like snacks, drinks, and perhaps some light meal options. For a full meal, exploring nearby restaurants is recommended.
The 'Brew at the Zoo' event often includes food vendors and local food trucks, offering a wider selection of dining options during the event.
📸 📸 Photography
The exhibits offer great opportunities, especially the gibbons and otters. Look for clear shots of the animals in their habitats. The student keepers can also be interesting subjects.
Generally, drones are not permitted on college campuses or at zoos due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to assume drones are prohibited unless explicitly stated otherwise.
The zoo is quite shady, which can be great for reducing harsh glare on sunny days. However, it can also mean lower light conditions, so a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be helpful.
While general photography is encouraged, avoid using flash photography directly at animals, as it can disturb them. Be mindful of other visitors and respect any posted signage regarding photography.
Capture students interacting with animals, unique training sessions like the otters using communication buttons, or the diverse range of native and exotic species.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as food options can be limited, or plan for a meal at a nearby restaurant. Visiting during the cooler parts of the day, like mornings or late afternoons, will make the experience more comfortable for everyone. The zoo's shady environment is a plus, but Florida heat is still a consideration.
🎓 Students & Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid potential weekend crowds and to better engage with the student staff. Bringing your own food and drinks is a smart way to save money, aligning with a budget-conscious approach to travel. The zoo's location within Gainesville also means you can easily combine your visit with other affordable campus activities or explore local eateries.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for varied lighting conditions due to the zoo's shady environment, which can be both a blessing and a challenge. A camera with good low-light capabilities or a tripod might be beneficial. Remember to be respectful of the animals and avoid using flash photography directly at them.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Teaching Zoo Concept
This 'teaching' aspect provides a unique visitor experience. You're not just observing animals; you're witnessing a living classroom. Student keepers are often present at exhibits, ready to share their knowledge and answer questions, offering insights that go beyond typical zoo signage. This direct engagement fosters a deeper appreciation for animal welfare and conservation efforts.
By supporting the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, visitors contribute directly to the education of these aspiring professionals. It's a symbiotic relationship where the public gets an engaging and informative visit, and students get invaluable practical experience in a real-world setting.
Animal Encounters and Conservation
Innovations in animal care are also on display. For instance, zookeeper students are teaching Asian small-clawed otters to communicate using FluentPet buttons, allowing the animals to express their needs and desires for food and enrichment activities. This not only enhances the otters' quality of life by giving them a greater sense of agency but also provides valuable research data for animal behaviorists.
Visitors can learn about the importance of conservation through the exhibits and the knowledge shared by the student keepers. The zoo serves as an educational platform, raising awareness about the challenges faced by various species and inspiring visitors to consider their own roles in protecting wildlife and their habitats.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities
Parking on the Santa Fe College campus can be a point of contention for visitors. As highlighted by Reddit users, leaving ample time to find a parking spot is crucial, especially if you have a specific class or event to attend. Familiarize yourself with campus parking regulations and designated visitor areas to avoid any last-minute stress. The zoo's manageable size means that once you've parked, navigating the grounds is straightforward.
For those looking for a unique experience, keep an eye out for special events like 'Brew at the Zoo.' These events offer an after-hours opportunity to enjoy the zoo with live music, craft beer, and food, creating a lively atmosphere. These events are popular and often require advance ticket purchase.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit