Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park, Glendale, AZ
Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park, located in Glendale, Arizona, is one of the largest and most diverse wildlife attractions in the state. Covering over 215 acres, it offers a unique combination of zoo, aquarium, and safari experiences, making it a must-visit destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and animal lovers. The park is home to more than 600 species of animals, offering guests the chance to see a wide variety of creatures from around the world up close.
Zoo Exhibits and Animal Encounters
The Wildlife World Zoo section of the park features an extensive collection of animals from all corners of the globe. Visitors can explore exhibits that include everything from African wildlife to South American rainforests. Iconic animals like lions, tigers, giraffes, zebras, and rhinos can be seen in naturalistic habitats, giving guests a sense of the animals’ native environments. One of the park’s most popular attractions is the baby animal nursery, where visitors can see newborn animals, including baby tigers, monkeys, and exotic birds.
Interactive animal encounters are a highlight at Wildlife World Zoo. Guests have the opportunity to feed certain animals, such as giraffes, stingrays, and parrots, allowing for a close, hands-on experience. There are also daily shows and presentations where park staff provide educational talks about various species, conservation efforts, and the importance of protecting wildlife. The chance to engage with animals in such an up-close manner makes the zoo a favorite destination for families and children.
Aquarium Adventures
The Aquarium at Wildlife World is another major attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the underwater world. The aquarium houses over 75 exhibits featuring marine life from freshwater rivers, lakes, and the ocean. Visitors can observe sharks, sea turtles, otters, stingrays, and countless species of fish. One of the aquarium’s standout exhibits is the shark tank, where guests can walk through an underwater tunnel and watch sharks swim above and around them, creating a thrilling immersive experience.
For those interested in more interactive experiences, the stingray touch tank is a popular exhibit. Visitors can gently touch or even feed these graceful creatures, learning about their habits and role in the marine ecosystem. The aquarium also focuses on education, with displays about ocean conservation, endangered species, and the environmental challenges facing marine life around the globe.
Safari Park and Rides
The Safari Park section of the Wildlife World complex offers a more open, expansive experience, where animals roam in large enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitats. Visitors can take a guided safari train ride through the park to see animals like antelopes, buffalo, and ostriches in a more free-range setting. This safari-style experience allows guests to get closer to the animals than they might in a traditional zoo, giving them a unique perspective on wildlife.
In addition to the safari train, Wildlife World Zoo also offers several family-friendly rides. The Skyride takes visitors high above the park for a bird’s-eye view of the animals and the surrounding desert landscape. There’s also a log flume ride, which provides a fun and cooling experience, especially during Arizona’s hot summers.
Conservation and Education
A key focus of Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park is conservation and education. The park is dedicated to protecting endangered species and educating the public about the importance of wildlife conservation. Throughout the park, visitors will find informative signage, presentations, and exhibits that highlight the challenges facing many of the world’s animal species. Wildlife World actively participates in breeding programs for endangered animals, working to ensure the survival of species at risk of extinction.
The park’s education programs cater to visitors of all ages, with opportunities for school groups, families, and individuals to learn more about wildlife conservation. These programs emphasize the importance of preserving natural habitats and the critical role that each species plays in maintaining the health of ecosystems.
Conclusion
Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park in Glendale, AZ, offers an unparalleled wildlife experience for visitors of all ages. With its combination of zoo exhibits, aquatic adventures, and safari park thrills, the park provides an engaging and educational experience that fosters an appreciation for wildlife and conservation. Whether you’re feeding giraffes, walking through an aquarium tunnel surrounded by sharks, or taking a safari ride through expansive animal enclosures, Wildlife World is a destination that captivates and educates, making it a top attraction in the Phoenix area.
Visit another Glendale, AZ attraction: Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center, Glendale, AZ