Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, 370 Zoo Pkwy., features more than 2,000 animals and 1,000 plant species from around the world on 92 acres. In addition to Great Apes of the World, Plains of East Africa and Range of the Jaguar, the park has Giraffe Overlook, an exhibit that allows visitors to feed giraffes, the Komodo Dragon exhibit, and the Tuxedo Coast Penguin exhibit. At Stingray Bay, guests can touch and feed stingrays. Savanna Blooms, the Gardens of Trout River Plaza and the Monsoon Asia provide respite. Lorikeet birds feed from visitors' hands at Australian Adventure. Train, carousel and 4-D rides also are available. A 2.5-acre Play Park, which includes the seasonal Splash Ground, affords children the opportunity to discover, experience and explore additional exhibits and play areas.

Picnicking is permitted in designated areas outside the zoo.

Picnicking is permitted. Time: Allow 2 hours minimum.