The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, located in Sanford, announced throughout August the free admission for children aged 12 and under with the purchase of an adult ticket.
The promotion comes at a time when families are facing expenses for back-to-school season and is in addition to the exemption from sales taxes on school supplies that Florida applies between July 20 and August 20 of 2026.
The regular ticket price for adults ranges from $26.95 to $28.95 at the box office, depending on the season. Children under two years of age usually enter for free, regardless of this special offer.
The executive director of the zoo, Richard E. Glover, Jr., explained the initiative with these words: “We know that families are balancing busy schedules and back-to-school expenses at this time of year. Offering free admission for children in August is a great way to help parents make the most of the last weeks of summer, creating memories that will last long after the season ends.”
There are important conditions that families should take into account before planning their visit.
The offer can only be redeemed in person at the zoo ticket counter; it is not available online and cannot be combined with any other current promotion.
The zoo operates during daylight saving time from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., so it is recommended to arrive early to make the most of your visit.
For those who frequently visit the area, the zoo also offers annual passes starting at $79.95 for individual use, a convenient option for repeated visits during the school year.
The facility houses more than 350 animals, including rhinos, cheetahs, and snakes. It has recently added a pair of giraffes to its collection, which has become one of the most anticipated attractions for young visitors.
The zoo has a history that dates back to 1923, when it opened as the Sanford Municipal Zoo with animals donated by the local Fire Department.
In 1975, it moved to its current location by Lake Monroe, where it now welcomes thousands of families each year.
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