Experience ‘Florida: Mission Everglades’ at Zoo Miami

The new 4.5-acre addition to the zoo connects visitors with 60 species of wildlife, many of which are endangered or threatened. Upon entering the exhibit, you’ll be immersed in Florida’s flora and fauna with the sounds and sights in the songbird aviary filled with native birds. Thrill seekers can head straight for the crawl-through tunnel at the American crocodile exhibit to get face-to-face with these massive creatures or slide through the North American river otter exhibit to see these friendly animals in their habitat.

If the crocodile and otter interactions weren’t adventurous enough, you can brave the elevated rope bridge that dangles over the American alligator exhibit. The bridge connects to a tree house that’s perfect for getting a glimpse at the elusive bobcat and gray fox exhibits. Some of Florida’s largest land mammals like the North American black bear and Florida panther also have a home in Mission Everglades, along with some of the native reptiles and amphibians such as green tree frogs, box turtles, rat snakes and more.

In addition to the animal exhibits, guests can hop aboard the Lostman’s River ride that takes guests on a slow-moving boat journey through the heart of the Everglades. The ride and exhibits are all part of the zoo’s mission to educate guests on the importance of Florida’s Everglades and encourage them to take a trip out to experience the Everglades first hand.

Zoo Miami is home to more than 3,000 animals, 70 of which are endangered species. Large, open-air exhibits showcase elephants and rhinos and the zoo features a giraffe feeding station, camel encounters and Indian rhino encounters.

• Address: 12400 SW 152nd Street, Miami and is
• Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.