Situated just a few minutes away from the sparkling beaches of Gulf Shores, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo stands as one of the most loved attractions in the Southern United States. Known as The Little Zoo That Could, this destination blends wildlife conservation, family fun, hands-on interactions, and immersive animal experiences that make every visit unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a school trip, or simply a weekend getaway, this zoo offers a refreshing mix of adventure and education you won’t want to miss.
In this blog, we dive deep into everything that makes the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo special — its history, exhibits, encounters, conservation efforts, visitor experiences, and why it should be on your Gulf Shores itinerary.
A Brief History – The Little Zoo That Could
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo first gained national fame after surviving multiple hurricanes, including Hurricane Ivan in 2004. Its resilience inspired the nickname The Little Zoo That Could, and the story was later featured in a popular Animal Planet series. Despite the setbacks, the zoo continued to grow, eventually moving to a brand-new 25-acre facility in 2020.
The new location is elevated, more spacious, safer during storms, and designed to give both animals and guests a world-class experience.
A Zoo Designed for Comfort and Exploration
Unlike traditional zoos with crowded walkways and limited interaction, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo offers an open, relaxed, and natural environment. Wide paths, shaded areas, landscaped gardens, and peaceful ponds make exploring the zoo feel like walking through a nature retreat.
The new zoo’s layout is thoughtfully planned to encourage close-up animal viewing without disturbing natural habitats. Many enclosures offer 360-degree visibility, giving visitors the perfect photo opportunities.
Meet the Animals – A Diverse Collection
The zoo is home to more than 300 animals from 100+ species, offering a mix of exotic wildlife and local favourites.
1. Mammals
From playful lemurs to majestic lions, the mammal exhibits showcase creatures from around the world. Some popular residents include:
- Kangaroos
- Lemurs
- Tigers
- Lions
- Sloths
- Wolves
- Camels
Each enclosure replicates the natural habitat of the animal, offering an educational and immersive experience.
2. Reptiles
The Reptile House is a favourite among guests who love snakes, lizards, and turtles. You’ll find species like:
- Burmese pythons
- Alligators
- Iguanas
- Tortoises
- Kingsnakes
The reptile keepers often host educational sessions where visitors can learn about habitat preservation and reptile behaviour.
3. Birds
Colourful, musical, and full of personality — the aviary hosts dozens of bird species such as:
- Parrots
- Macaws
- Cockatoos
- Flamingos
- Emus
Many birds interact with visitors, making this a fun spot for children.
Hands-On Animal Encounters – The Highlight of the Zoo
One feature that sets the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo apart is its up-close animal encounters. These sessions allow visitors to meet and touch certain animals in a safe, guided setting. These encounters often require a separate ticket but offer priceless, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
1. Kangaroo Encounter
Guests can step inside the kangaroo habitat and interact closely with these gentle animals. You can pet them, learn about their lifestyle, and take incredible photos.
2. Lemur Encounter
This is one of the most loved attractions. Ring-tailed and red ruffed lemurs may hop onto your shoulder, sit beside you, or simply show off their playful behaviour. It’s joyful, energetic, and unforgettable.
3. Sloth Encounter
Visitors get the chance to meet the zoo’s slowest celebrity residents — the sloths. Keepers explain their diets, habits, and conservation needs. These encounters are calm and soothing, perfect for families.
4. Reptile Experience
If you’re curious about snakes, lizards, or turtles, this encounter gives you a safe and guided way to learn and touch certain species.
Educational Experiences for Children and Adults
The zoo strongly focuses on education, making it an ideal stop for families or school groups. Programs include:
- Zoo Camps: Seasonal camps help kids explore animal care, wildlife conservation, and hands-on activities led by expert zookeepers.
- Keeper Talks: Scheduled throughout the day, keeper talks provide deep insights into animal behaviour, feeding, and conservation.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Guests can discover how the zoo operates backstage. It’s a fascinating way to understand veterinary care, diets, and daily routines for animal well-being.
Dining and Shopping at the Zoo
A full day of adventure works up an appetite, and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has a great solution.
Safari Club Restaurant
This onsite restaurant is Alabama’s first certified “Green Restaurant,” offering sustainable operations and delicious meals. The interior is jungle-themed, making the dining experience as memorable as the zoo visit itself.
Popular items include:
- Wood-fired pizzas
- Fresh salads
- Burgers
- Vegan options
There’s also an outdoor seating area with relaxing views of the zoo grounds.
Gift Shop
The gift shop offers:
- Plush animals
- Souvenirs
- Educational toys
- Branded clothing
- Hand-crafted items
A perfect stop before leaving the zoo.
Conservation and Community Involvement
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is dedicated to:
- Wildlife conservation
- Endangered species care
- Community engagement
- Environmental responsibility
The zoo participates in programs that support habitat restoration, endangered species protection, and public education about respecting ecosystems.
Best Time to Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
The zoo is open year-round, but here are some tips:
- Spring and Fall: These seasons offer mild weather and active animals. Ideal for families and photographers.
- Summer: Busy but exciting. To avoid heat, arrive early in the morning or during late afternoons.
- Winter: Quieter crowds and peaceful experiences. Some animals are more active in cooler temperatures.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
- Arrive early to catch feeding times and keeper talks
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Buy animal encounter tickets in advance
- Bring sunscreen and a hat
- Carry a refillable water bottle
- Don’t forget your camera
Pro tip: The zoo is close to Gulf Shores beaches, so you can easily pair a visit with a beach day.
Why the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo Is a Must-Visit
Whether you’re an animal lover, a family on vacation, a photographer, or simply someone looking for a unique Southern experience, this zoo offers something for everyone. Its modern facilities, compassionate animal care, hands-on encounters, and beautiful environment make it far more than just a zoo — it’s a place where you connect with nature, learn new things, and create amazing memories.
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo continues to grow and innovate, offering new programs, exhibits, and experiences year after year. Its story of resilience and dedication to wildlife makes it a true treasure in Gulf Shores.
Final Thoughts
If your travels lead you to Gulf Shores or anywhere along the Alabama coastline, be sure to stop by the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. It’s more than an attraction; it’s a heartfelt adventure into the world of wildlife. Families return again and again, and new visitors instantly fall in love with its charm.
From lemur encounters to safari-themed dining to educational moments that stay with you, this zoo is an unforgettable part of the Gulf Shores experience. Add it to your bucket list today — the animals are waiting to welcome you!
