Wild Adventures at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm
Explore a bit of wild at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm – an American Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited zoo that offers a unique look into the lives and habitats of alligators worldwide. Beyond our favorite big reptiles, you’ll also have the chance to see mammals, fossils, amphibians, and an active rookery filled with native Florida birds.
Words and Photographs by Sara Sheehy
Live Wildly Lead Adventurist
Things to Do at St. Augustine Alligator Farm
Visit Every Species of Crocodilians
Ever wanted to see all of the crocodilian species of the world in one place? Look no further! From the Nile crocodile to the American alligator to the dwarf crocodile, the Alligator Farm has them. Keep an eye on the daily Wildlife Shows to learn more about the resident creatures.
The zoo is also active in conservation and research efforts as a part of the Species Survival Plan, a cooperative population management and conservation project that helps to ensure healthy and self-sustaining populations of threatened and endangered species.
Get Up Close and Personal with Native Florida Birds
The St. Augustine Alligator Farm’s rookery is a chaotic, busy, and amazing place to visit in late winter and early summer when native Florida birds descend to roost and nest.
While there in April, I spotted roseate spoonbills, egrets, wood storks, and tri-colored herons – just to name a few. An elevated boardwalk over the alligator ponds brings you to eye level with many nests, and seeing (and hearing!) the babies in their nests was unforgettable.
Big fan of birds? Us too! While in St. Augustine, be sure to check out the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, Anastasia State Park, and Fort Mose Historic State Park – all of which are stops on the Great Florida Birding Trail.
Soar Over the Park
If you’re feeling brave, the Alligator Farm offers Crocodile Crossing, a zip-lining experience where you glide through the treetops over the park and get the chance to try out high-line obstacle courses. Crocodile Crossing requires an additional fee; reservations are necessary.
After the St. Augustine Alligator Farm, swing over to the St. Augustine Lighthouse for another high-flying experience with incredible views over wild Florida.
The Details
Address: St. Augustine Alligator Farm, 999 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours during peak seasons
Fees: General admission: Adults $35.99, Children (ages 3-11) $20.99, Toddlers (under 3) free, discounts for AAA, seniors, and military
Accessibility: The St. Augustine Alligator Farm is wheelchair accessible, with rental wheelchairs at the entrance. Tickets for guests in wheelchairs are $15.00 (adults) and $9.50 (children). In addition to mobility access, the Alligator Farm is Sensory Inclusive certified, offering accommodations to and acceptance for those with invisible disabilities, including autism, dementia, PTSD, and other conditions. The Alligator Farm provides noise-canceling headphones and sensory bags that include fidget tools and communication cards.
