The Gulf Shores Alabama Zoo, also known as Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, is passionate about the wellbeing of their animals and sharing the experience of getting to know over 500 majestic and wondrous creatures with you! Since the zoo relies only on the income they receive from admission tickets, you can contribute to the continued care of hundreds of animals while enjoying all the fun-filled and family friendly activities this zoo offers.
History of Gulf Shores Alabama Zoo
First opened in 1989 as Zooland Animal Park, it served as a private enterprise by Joey Ward of Gulf Shores. Only two years later, the Ward family founded the Zoo Foundation Inc., a nonprofit organization that donated 17 acres of land that currently make up the zoo. 13 more acres of land were donated a few years later by the Ward family and the Erie Meyer Foundation, which have yet to be developed. Throughout the years, the zoo has thrived from the community's strong support and the generous donations from several businesses and patrons. The continued support from these donors and visitors ensures the longevity of the facility and a home for the many Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo animals that live there.
Things to Do at Gulf Shores Alabama Zoo
Annual Events: Fun-filled events take place at the zoo all year-round, so check the calendar of events regularly to see what activities you and your family can get involved in! During the summer, the kids may enjoy a summer retreat at Zoo Camp where they will spend the days exploring animal life through enrichment activities, meeting some of the animals, playing age-specific games, and practicing craft projects. Also be sure to visit for special holidays like Halloween and Christmas for themed celebrations and even more animal meet and greets!
Become a Gulf Shores Alabama Zoo Member
If you enjoyed your visit to the zoo and want to come back again and again, five different memberships are offered for those loyal patrons and allow them special privileges throughout the year. You may choose the Family Membership, which allows both parents and all their children under 18 free admission year-round, a Friendship Membership for unlimited visits for you and up to one guest, or the Group Membership which entitles the member plus five guests as many visits as they desire for one full year! It's a great way to contribute to the zoo while saving a bit of cash yourself.
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