Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
4.1(4.8K)google
3.4(235)yelp
Family
Overview
Affectionately dubbed the 'Little Zoo That Could,' the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is a wonderfully interactive, family-friendly wildlife park located just miles from the beach in Gulf Shores. Set on a spacious, modern campus, the zoo is home to more than 300 animals representing species from across the globe, including majestic lions, playful primates, leopards, and exotic birds. What truly sets this zoo apart are its remarkable, close-up animal encounters, allowing guests to responsibly pet sloths, feed curious lemurs, or hold baby kangaroos. The zoo provides an educational, heartfelt, and deeply memorable journey that emphasizes global conservation, animal welfare, and creative community-led educational outreach.
Practical Info
Every day9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Suggested DurationAbout 2-3 hours
Best TimeSpring and autumn offer mild weather when animals are most active. Arriving at the 9 AM opening is recommended to avoid the midday sun and catch up close animal encounters.
Getting ThereLocated on County Road 6, about two miles east of Gulf Shores Parkway (AL-59). Driving is most convenient, with a spacious free dedicated parking lot right in front.
Travel Tips
- Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo - Visitor Tips & Recommendations
- Feed adorable red kangaroos, sloths, meerkats under professional keeper guidance with additional tickets
- Flat barrier-free circular paths, lush vegetation and palms, high-quality outdoor island-style restaurant
Reviews
Positive
- Holding kangaroos and feeding meerkats on your shoulder—amazing experience, impeccably clean park without odors
- Top family road trip destination
Heads up
- Smaller than major city zoos with fewer big cats; core interactive activities require additional per-activity fees