Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo

The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, a unique 10-acre zoo in Gainesville, Florida, is the only zoo on a college campus accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

The SF Teaching Zoo is coordinated by ten full time staff members, home to over 70 different species of animals and is maintained by about 100 students enrolled in the college's premier Zoo Animal Technology program.

The zoo showcases a diverse collection that contains both native and exotic species for everyone to enjoy. Visitors enjoy the Bald Eagles, White-throated capuchin monkeys, American alligators, Matschie's Tree Kangaroo and Asian small-clawed otters to name a few. These species and many other mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians are on display in a naturally shaded environment. The 1/4 mile trail through the wooded environment is lined with mulch and is stroller and/or wheelchair accessible.

Transport your class from the classroom to the great outdoors and learn about our extraordinary animals, or book a guided tour of the Zoo for your family. The Zoo offers a safe, fun place to learn about wildlife and explore the natural world.

Would you like an up-close experience with our ambassador animals?
Next time you visit the Zoo, reserve a private meet-and-greet with our animal ambassadors. This encounter provides children and the young at heart with a unique and once in a lifetime interactive experience with animals. This program is available daily, subject to availability. You must schedule this program ahead of time, and we strongly suggest you schedule at least two weeks in advance.