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Rated by experts as one of the best zoos in the world, Miami MetroZoo houses more than 900 wild animals in a 290-acre cage-less environment. Many people who shudder at the thought of exotic animals trapped in small cages will be happy to find some of the world's most endangered wildlife roaming in huge open spaces at the MetroZoo. This is the only zoo in the continental U.S. located in a subtropical climate. Here you'll find more than 260 species of fauna, including flamingos, chinchillas, giraffes, koalas, kangaroos, Komodo dragons, wart hogs, gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, Himalayan black bears, unusual white tigers, and other exotic creatures.
Miami MetroZoo has won several awards for the successful breeding of rare animal species, due largely to the faithful reproduction of the animals' natural habitats.
Pick up a map at the entrance booth and start your journey on the air conditioned Zoofari monorail, which makes a complete loop of the zoo in about 25 minutes. A narrated tram tour ($2.50) shows some behind-the-scenes areas, including the animal hospital. The recent installation of water misters, fans, and shade structures throughout the property create the Cool Zoo Experience.
Zoo officials recommend early morning or late afternoon visiting hours to avoid the worst of the heat. That's also the time the animals are most active. Sunday morning is usually the quietest time at the zoo.
PAWS, the children's petting zoo, allows kids to touch pot-bellied pigs, deer, and other tame creatures. The zoo sponsors camps for kids, family sleep-overs, and after-school programs. Miami MetroZoo, which takes about a half day to visit, also has handicapped access, wheelchair rental, baby stroller rental, and a trio of food courts. It's best not to go on a rainy day.
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