Kentucky Reptile Zoo
4.7(1.2K)google
4.4(16)yelp
WildlifeFamilyEducational
Overview
Kentucky Reptile Zoo is a non-profit facility in Slade, Kentucky, that specializes in venomous reptiles and the acquisition of venom through a process called venom extraction. The venom is collected for use in medical research programs as well as for the production of anti-serum. The Kentucky Reptile Zoo is owned by Jim Harrison.
Practical Info
Mon10:00 AM –5:00 PM
Tue10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wed10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thu10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fri10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sat10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sun10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Suggested Duration1.5-2.5 hours
Best TimeMay through September brings excellent weather and full live animal presentation schedules. As a world-renowned non-profit research facility providing vital reptile venom for medical anti-venom production, planning your visit for an 11:00 AM or 1:00 PM live 'Venom Extraction Show' is highly recommended; witness extraction experts handle deadly king cobras and rattlesnakes safely.
Getting ThereCentrally located right in the heart of the gorge gateway area at 200 L and E Railroad Rd, Slade. Drivers can take the Mountain Parkway east from Lexington to Exit 33, head north onto KY-11, and make an immediate right onto L and E Railroad Road. The specialized zoological park operates its own dedicated paved surface parking lot right beside the main research center.
Travel Tips
- Outdoor display areas close for animal safety when summer temperatures exceed 32C; plan your arrival between 10:00 and 12:00 for optimal viewing.
- Live venom extraction demonstrations occur on weekends at 13:00; seating is limited and unreserved, requiring a strict 30-minute early arrival.
- Cell coverage is extremely weak around the Red River Gorge area; download offline GPS maps before parking at the L&E Railroad Place lot.
Reviews
Positive
- The diversity of reptiles here is astounding, possessing one of the world's most complete venomous snake collections; seeing mambas and king cobras up close is an eye-opener.
- The live venom extraction demonstrations are highly professional and educational, with staff detailing the core value of venom in medicine and antivenom production.
- The Turtle Tracks interactive area is a huge hit with kids, allowing them to observe various tortoises and aquatic turtles from a very close distance.
- The director and professional handlers are passionate about the animals and are more than happy to answer visitors' eccentric biological questions.
Heads up
- The overall facility is quite dated and cramped, featuring a typical old-style private zoo setup, with a heavy animal odor noticeable in certain areas.
- Some reptile glass enclosures are small and slightly smudged, with suboptimal lighting that compromises the quality of photography and detailed observation.
- The admission price feels a bit expensive relative to such a compact facility; if you miss the scheduled live shows, the entire tour takes less than half an hour.
- The accessible facilities are inadequate, and the narrow indoor aisles become extremely crowded during peak times, making it difficult for strollers or wheelchairs to maneuver.