Central Florida Zoo Celebrates 50 Years at Current Location with Special Anniversary Weekend

This Fourth of July weekend, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens invites the community to celebrate a major milestone—50 years at its current Sanford location. From July 4 through July 6, the Zoo will host a special anniversary event honoring its rich history and the generations of visitors who have helped shape it.

A Nod to 1975: Special Admission Pricing

To mark the occasion, the Zoo is offering discounted general admission rates in honor of its founding year. Adult and senior tickets will be available for just $19.75, while children’s admission will be $16.75. These throwback prices represent a more than 20% discount off regular peak admission rates, making it an ideal time for families to visit or revisit the Zoo.

Experience the New Historical Gallery

As part of the anniversary celebration, the Zoo will debut a limited-time historical gallery inside the Wayne Densch Discovery Center. This curated exhibit will showcase key milestones, notable achievements, and rare behind-the-scenes photographs from the past five decades. Visitors can explore how the Zoo has evolved and grown into one of Central Florida’s most cherished wildlife attractions.

Community Stories Wanted

The Zoo is also inviting longtime guests to become part of its living history. Anyone with old photos, home videos, or cherished memories from past decades is encouraged to share their stories. Selected submissions may be featured in the historical gallery, helping to document the Zoo’s impact through the eyes of the community.

A Celebration for All Generations

Whether it’s a return visit or a first-time experience, the 50th Anniversary Weekend offers a chance to reconnect with the animals, nature, and educational experiences that have defined the Zoo for half a century. From nostalgic moments to new memories, this celebration aims to honor the past while inspiring future generations.

“This celebration is as much yours as it is ours. For 50 years, you’ve helped shape this zoo—by visiting, volunteering, supporting, and sharing it with the next generation,” Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens’ website reads.

For more information on the 50th Anniversary Weekend, visit centralfloridazoo.org or follow the Zoo on social media for updates.