The area’s only ZOOlogical Gardens! Sarasota Jungle Gardens is one of the oldest continuously operating attractions in the State of Florida. Open to the public in December of 1940, the “Gardens” has retained its old Florida charm. A visit to the Gardens will bring back the memories of Florida days gone by. Many of the animals that you will see at our attraction came to us through many sources. Some were rescued from adverse or inhumane conditions and some were donated by pet owners who could no longer care for their charges. Many of the rare and endangered exotic birds were given to us by various rescue organizations nationwide. Our native Florida Crocodiles, which are a “species of concern”, are on loan to us from the Saint Augustine Alligator Farm and a local breeder to use for educational and conservation purposes. Sarasota Jungle Gardens features 10 acres of lush tropical vegetation, winding jungle trails and entertaining, educational bird and reptile shows throughout the day. The “Kiddie Jungle” features a brand new playground. The Flamingo Café serves delicious sandwiches, ice cream and snacks and is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day. Our Café has a wide variety of choices. Guests are encouraged to dine at our outside picnic tables! Your visit isn’t complete without feeding our “free roaming” American Flamingos! We often ask when was the last time you had a flamingo eating out of the palm of your hand? As you browse our web-site, you will find just how special we are! Please visit every page and you will see that your visit to Sarasota, Florida will not be complete without visiting historical Sarasota Jungle Gardens