For animal loving families, it doesn’t get much better than finding an opportunity to get up-close and personal with a large variety of wildlife. If you have always dreamed of feeding giraffes on a safari or driving through untouched wilderness in your own vehicle, we have a great list of parks for you! All of these parks also stress education and conservation and a visit is a great way to teach kids about the diversity of animals and how their environment works. The West Coast of the US has five amazing options for your next family getaway.
1. San Diego Zoo Safari Park – San Diego, California
The San Diego Zoo is a must-see attraction in California and the Safari Park is a big bonus! Immerse yourself in a hands-on safari experience via caravan truck, cart or zip line. This leading-edge park provides countless opportunities to learn about and interact with a variety of animals in their natural habitats.
Safari Experience:
You can choose a number of different safari experiences to purchase separately from your admission. Get an up-close view of Asian and African birds and mammals, with an opportunity to feed giraffes, in the open-air Caravan Safari. Or travel to keepers-only areas in the Behind-the-Scenes safari to see how animals are cared for.
Other Experiences:
San Diego Zoo, Africa Tram, Animal Encounters, Hot Air Balloon Safari, Conservation Carousel, Animal Shows
2. Safari West – Santa Rosa, California
You can discover the wilderness of Africa just miles from the heart of wine country. Over 400 acres are available to meet rhinos, giraffes, zebras, lemurs and so many more beautiful animals. Find yourself surrounded by nearly 900 animals from over 90 species. Safari West considers it its mission to inspire wildlife advocates to help them protect and preserve these beautiful and often endangered creatures.
Safari Experience:
This family friendly experience (kids must be 4 or older) actively promotes conservation and education and encourages the joy found in witnessing nature up-close. Sit on the upper level of the truck for a more daring experience! Immerse yourself even further by staying overnight in a luxurious Safari West tent – the ultimate glamping opportunity.
Other Experiences:
Behind the Scenes Wild Walk, Meet a Creature, Keeper for a Day, Private Safari Adventure
3. Out of Africa Wildlife Park – Camp Verde, Arizona
The mission of this park is to create the ultimate animal adventure for all ages where everyone can learn and have fun while being surrounded and inspired by wildlife. The park is spread out over 100 acres of rolling hills and is home to hundreds of animals from around the world. Protecting the animals is a priority, especially those bordering on extinction.
Safari Experience:
The African Bush Safari is a 30 minute narrated tour that will have you feeling like you’re in Africa. You will be surrounded by giraffes, zebras, sable antelope, gemsbok, and so many more inhabitants of their spacious Serengeti preserve. You can get up close with the giraffes by feeding them provided treats.
Other Experiences:
Tiger Splash, Creature Feature, Predator Feed, Giant Snake Show, Wonders of Wildlife Show, VIP Behind the Scenes Tour, Zip Line Tour above animals, Feed a Tiger
4. Northwest Trek Wildlife Park – Eatonville, Washington
Discover over 40 species of native Northwest animals on over 400 acres of land. You will encounter everything from bison, elk and moose to bears, otters and wolves. This is a wonderful way to introduce children to animals in their own backyard.
Safari Experience:
Their Discovery Tram Tour is a unique way to see wildlife, taking you through 435 acres of stunning meadows and forests with herds of Roosevelt elk, moose, bighorn sheep, caribou and more. The 40 minute tour is narrated by a naturalist and included with admission.
Other Experiences:
Animal Walking Tours, Keeper Chats, Nature and Fairy Trails, Zip Wild Deep Forest Challenge, Kids’ Trek Adventure Playground, Photo Tours
5. Bearizona Wildlife Park – Williams, Arizona
Visitors to Bearizona can explore 160 acres of natural habitat in the Ponderosa Pine Forest. This family friendly park also has areas for kids to explore paths and a petting zoo.
Safari Experience:
Unlike the other safari options we’ve shared, in this one you can drive your own vehicle through the Arizona wilderness. Go at your own pace through this 3 mile drive where you will see a variety of elusive North American animals. More adventurous guests can also take a ride on the Wild Ride Bus Tour.
Other Experiences:
Bearizona Barnyard Petting Zoo, Walking Tour, Keeper Chat, Birds of Prey Show
I can’t wait to take my kids on their first animal adventure! It seems like one of those activities that will appeal to all ages and personalities. Which of these five options would you consider for your next family trip?
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