The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Very few places bring excitement to the whole family like a zoo! The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is full of character, in both history and the variety of creatures that call it home. With over 500 animals including lions, tigers, lemurs, monkeys, bears, and parrots. In addition to these major attractions, the zoo also boasts a reptile house, a petting zoo, and an aviary.

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo provides a more intimate zoo experience than many zoos you have probably been to before. Located in the town of Gulf Shores, it's just a short drive from all of our Gulf Shores condos and Orange Beach rentals. The zoo features at various times (and depending on which animals have babies) Tiger Encounters, Lemur Encounters, Kangaroo Encounters, and soon, Reptile Encounters. These are fun events where adults can interact up close and personal with tiger cubs, baby lemurs, and more. An unforgettable event for the entire family, but do plan ahead to make sure that there is a Tiger Encounter happening during your trip, and to learn times and reservation information. Zoo Camp is an annual five day summer experience in which children from age 5 to 11 can participate in zoo activities, meet zoo keepers and zoo residents, and learn what it means to run a zoo. It's a truly incredible experience. An application is required. In addition to these special activities, the unique space of the zoo and the knowledgeable and friendly staff make this a more personalized and fun experience than you may ever have had.

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has been the beneficiary of a number of supporters over the years. It has been rocked by several hurricanes over the years, causing expensive flooding and full-scale animal evacuations. The zoo nearly closed in 1999, and was closed a little to recover after Hurricane Ivan. In the end Hurricane Ivan helped revive the zoo, as Animal Planet approached it to film a television show, "The Little Zoo that Could," a 13 episode series on the resiliency of the people, animals, and community in the face of the hurricanes of 2004 and 2005. An update to the series was aired in February 2007, and another update is in the process of being made, as are new facilities to expand the zoo.

The zoo is generously supported by admissions, contributions, memberships, and local businesses and community organizations. The zoo has a number of volunteer opportunities throughout the year - visit the alabamagulfcoastzoo.org for more details on how you can help.

If you are looking for some family fun and a window into what makes Gulf Shores special, be sure to visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo while staying at one of our Orange Beach condos or Gulf Shores rentals!