According to the website, Zoo Miami is the only subtropical zoo in the continental United States. This, they say, lends itself to the variety of animals they are able to have; “The unique climate in South Florida allows us to keep a wide variety of animals from Asia, Australia, and Africa, representing a broad mix of species that is unlike any other zoo in the country.”
Zoo Miami is about a three-mile walk, so you should plan on arriving around 10 a.m. if you expect to see everything by the end of the day. There are so many animals and so much to see. Parking is free when you get there. Tickets are $22.95 for adults (13 and older) and $18.95 for children (3 to 12).
One big highlight of the zoo is the animal feeding experiences that you can participate in. Camel, giraffe, parrot, and rhino feedings are available for $5 each. The zoo is divided into regions where the animals are found. In Asia, you’ll find the Asian elephant, the Sumatran tiger, the Malyan tapir, the greater one-horned rhino, the clouded leopard, the dromedary camel, the Bactrian camel, the sloth bear, and the Bornean orangutan. In Africa, you’ll find African elephants, lowland gorillas, black rhinos, zebras, chimpanzees, giraffes, and ostriches. Other areas of note include: Amazon and Beyond, Australia, and Florida: Mission Everglades.
My main memory from Zoo Miami was that it was fun day, but that it was a lot of walking. Bikes are available to rent. I would not recommend going during the summer if you are planning on walking, because you are going to sweat a LOT. Wearing comfortable shoes is a must.