Something Wild Is Coming to Ocala: Meet the Ocala Zoological Park & Aquarium

A New Wildlife Adventure Is Taking Shape in Ocala

Something wild is coming to Ocala, Florida.

The Ocala Zoological Park & Aquarium is being developed as a new destination where families can discover incredible animals, explore fascinating ecosystems and develop a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the natural world.

But our vision goes far beyond creating another place to see animals.

We're working toward a destination built around four important ideas:

Wildlife. Conservation. Education. Community.

Our goal is to create experiences that bring people closer to animals while helping visitors understand why protecting wildlife and wild places matters.

From Florida to Around the World

Future plans envision wildlife experiences inspired by some of our planet's most remarkable environments.

Visitors may journey from the wetlands and waterways of Florida to the diverse ecosystems of South America before discovering wildlife inspired by the grasslands of Africa.

Along the way, planned experiences include colorful birds, fascinating reptiles and animals many visitors may have never encountered before.

And then the adventure goes underwater.

Future aquarium experiences are envisioned to introduce guests to freshwater and marine ecosystems while demonstrating the incredible diversity of life beneath the surface.

A Zoo Designed for Learning

Some of life's most memorable lessons don't happen inside a classroom.

They happen when a child sees a giraffe for the first time.

When someone discovers why flamingos turn pink.

When a family learns how an alligator helps maintain a healthy wetland.

Or when a visitor realizes how something they do at home can help protect an animal thousands of miles away.

Education will be woven throughout the Ocala Zoological Park & Aquarium experience.

Built for Ocala

Most importantly, this is being created as a destination for our community.

We want families throughout Ocala, Marion County and Central Florida to have a place where they can spend time together, experience wildlife and make memories.

The journey is just beginning, and we hope you'll follow along as the Ocala Zoological Park & Aquarium comes to life. 

Something Wild Is Coming!