Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, widely recognized as "The Little Zoo That Could," is a popular wildlife park located in Gulf Shores, Alabama. This beloved attraction offers visitors a chance to see a diverse collection of animals, ranging from majestic big cats and playful primates to colorful birds and fascinating reptiles. It provides an engaging and educational experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

The zoo gained national fame following a popular documentary series on Animal Planet. The series chronicled the incredible efforts of the staff to evacuate and protect the animals during a series of devastating hurricanes, including Hurricane Ivan. This remarkable story of resilience and dedication cemented the zoo's reputation and endeared it to visitors from around the world.

In recent years, the zoo moved to a brand-new, significantly larger campus just a short distance from its original location. This modern facility offers expanded habitats, wider pathways, and improved amenities. A key highlight of the zoo is its focus on interactive animal encounters, allowing guests to safely get up close with select species under the guidance of professional keepers.

Weather…

Practical info

Getting thereThe zoo is easily accessible by car in Gulf Shores with on-site parking available.
Best time to visitDuring the morning hours or in cooler months when the animals are more active.
Good to knowThe facility is affectionately known as "The Little Zoo That Could".

Tips

FAQ

What made the zoo famous?
The successful animal rescue efforts during hurricanes, which were featured in a TV documentary on Animal Planet.
Did the zoo relocate?
Yes, it recently relocated to a much larger and more modern facility.
Are there interactive experiences?
Yes, visitors can participate in special animal encounters accompanied by zookeepers.
How much time to plan for the visit?
Generally, 2 to 3 hours is enough to explore the park comfortably.

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

In the area