Croc Encounters

4.6 (158 reviews)

Zoos, Tours, Aquariums

Open • 8:00 am - 8:00 pm

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Croc Encounters - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Ball python - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - This is DJ - He was a great guide! - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Croc Encounters - Smiley the baby croc - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Jurney L.

This was such a fun educational tour. Very hands on at your own comfort level! This is a rescue sanctuary, that houses abandon pets, rescued zoo animals. Giving them a longer happier life than being euthanized. A lot of the older gators and crocodiles had to be re located to this sanctuary due to humans feeding them out in the wild, teaching the gators that humans will feed them and causing the gators to come into close encounters with humans.

Patty C.

DJ was awesome & educational. Donations are needed! Glad this we found this place! Worth making the trip.

Kiana was an amazing tour guide! Kiddos had a great time and their highlight was holding a small alligator and snake!

Bridgette Z.

Our guide Alexander taught us so much on this tour. We really enjoyed learning and seeing so many animals. He was very patient with answering all of the groups questions. Our kids had a blast

Zeb K.

This was by far one of the best, most informative wildlife experiences we have had as a family. DJ was an informative guide who had many "behind the scenes details." We learned so much about reptiles.

Kianna was so awesome I had the best time ever! She answered all my question very knowledgeable. The money spent there goes to caring for these beautiful animals well worth every penny and it was very hands on!

Our guide Alexander and the baby alligator

Joana C.

Highly recommend. My family and I had such a great experience at Croc Encounters, from ages 5 to 42, we all enjoyed ourselves. Our favorite moments were holding a ball python snake, feeding the tortoises and holding a baby alligator. Our guide Alexander was really knowledgeable and made sure we enjoyed our tour, really appreciate his efforts. We would definitely go back. If you have a chance to visit you should.

Julia N.

Came with my family for a chance to see crocodiles and other reptiles. We were not disappointed! Kiara was a great tour guide. She was very knowledgeable, very patient with the kids and gave good background on all of the reptiles! Would definitely recommend visiting.

Tessa T.

Alexander was a great tour guide! This experience was a cool way to see alligators and crocodiles, the tour had a good amount of both and we were given lots of information. It was a little bit pricey, being around $36 per person for a group of three, but it was worth it. I felt like the information online was a bit misleading regarding the tour grouping, but overall a very nice place to spend 2 hours seeing some cool reptiles, definitely recommend.

Tony B.

The place is a little run down and definitely could use some help but the staff was extremely knowledgeable and nice and they have a ton of gators , I'd definitely recommend checking this place out , has a ton of potential

Kiana was an amazing and very knowledgeable tour guide! She was super friendly and answered all of our questions. We would have never thought we could have Croc Encounter in Tampa super cool!! We would definitely go back!!

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Juan M.

0

1

0

2 months ago

Dj was a great guide for our group. Went into detail about all the different species, had extensive information on a few of them and he seemed to enjoy his job. This was a great experience with some opportunities to hold some of the stars at Croc Encounters. I definitely would recommend. read more

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Beth V.

71

9

3

1 month ago

Loved our tour with DJ. He was a great guide and very knowledgeable. Would highly recommend this tour. I would take other guests again.

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Glenn C.

Elite 26

437

368

568

11 months ago

Great time, lots of gators,Monitors, turtles etc - Be hydrated it's hot, if there's no breeze it gets pretty stuffy.. read more

Croc Encounters - Saying "Cheese" with Cheddar the snake - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - McCabe - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Monitor - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Jurney L.

0

7

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8 months ago

This was such a fun educational tour. Very hands on at your own comfort level! This is a rescue sanctuary, that houses abandon pets, rescued zoo animals. Giving them a longer happier life than being euthanized. A lot of the older gators and crocodiles had to be re located to this sanctuary due to humans feeding them out in the wild, teaching the gators that humans will feed them and causing the gators to come into close encounters with humans. read more

Croc Encounters - Vincent vangoat - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Croc Encounters entrance - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Baby alligator - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Pearl the albino corn snake - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Nile crocodile - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Buddy the Tortas - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Baby croc - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Buddy going in for another bite - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Amis the crocodile - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Glass pond - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Patty C.

1

20

36

5 months ago

DJ was awesome & educational. Donations are needed! Glad this we found this place! Worth making the trip. read more

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Brianna P.

0

3

1

3 months ago

This is a really cool tour it showed us some cool animals like snakes parrots and more crocodiles are so cool they had MANY of them we even got to touch them and feed them so visit this place so it can even more of a verify. - This review was brought to you by my 10 yr old little brother who really loved the place from beginning to end Kiona was our tour guide! And she was great read more

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Anita K.

0

16

2

4 months ago

Kiana was an amazing tour guide! Kiddos had a great time and their highlight was holding a small alligator and snake! read more

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Bridgette Z.

Elite 26

147

366

1228

2 years ago

Our guide Alexander taught us so much on this tour. We really enjoyed learning and seeing so many animals. He was very patient with answering all of the groups questions. Our kids had a blast read more

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Faisal I.

8

51

2

6 months ago

Awesome experience. Tour guide was on point and the Gators were real. Our 10 and 7 year old girls loved it

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Zeb K.

44

70

82

1 year ago

This was by far one of the best, most informative wildlife experiences we have had as a family. DJ was an informative guide who had many "behind the scenes details." We learned so much about reptiles. read more

Croc Encounters - DJ our guide and my riff-raft - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Gracia M.

0

9

13

10 months ago

Kianna was so awesome I had the best time ever! She answered all my question very knowledgeable. The money spent there goes to caring for these beautiful animals well worth every penny and it was very hands on! read more

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Joana C.

Elite 25

0

48

26

1 year ago

Highly recommend. My family and I had such a great experience at Croc Encounters, from ages 5 to 42, we all enjoyed ourselves. Our favorite moments were holding a ball python snake, feeding the tortoises and holding a baby alligator. Our guide Alexander was really knowledgeable and made sure we enjoyed our tour, really appreciate his efforts. We would definitely go back. If you have a chance to visit you should. read more

Croc Encounters - Our guide Alexander and the baby alligator - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Tortoises that we were able to interact with and feed - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Holding the baby alligator - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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jennifer p.

0

43

1

1 year ago

Great experience ! We really enjoyed our visit! Our tour guide was very informative and had a great sense of humor .

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Doug M.

0

10

0

11 months ago

Excellent visit. Our visitors ranged from 4 years old to 70 and everybody enjoyed it. Educational and very interesting and engaging.

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Julia N.

14

34

3

2 years ago

Came with my family for a chance to see crocodiles and other reptiles. We were not disappointed! Kiara was a great tour guide. She was very knowledgeable, very patient with the kids and gave good background on all of the reptiles! Would definitely recommend visiting. read more

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Lori H.

0

25

0

1 year ago

The guide was great! The experience was so educational. I love the fact that we got to hold a snake.

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O K.

0

17

0

1 year ago

DJ!!!!!!!!!! Highlight of my trip Knowledgeable, patient, brave and funny. We didn't know you needed reservations and they bent the rules to accommodate us. Super nice. Highly recommend read more

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Tessa T.

1

16

10

2 years ago

Alexander was a great tour guide! This experience was a cool way to see alligators and crocodiles, the tour had a good amount of both and we were given lots of information. It was a little bit pricey, being around $36 per person for a group of three, but it was worth it. I felt like the information online was a bit misleading regarding the tour grouping, but overall a very nice place to spend 2 hours seeing some cool reptiles, definitely recommend. read more

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Tony B.

69

25

23

2 years ago

The place is a little run down and definitely could use some help but the staff was extremely knowledgeable and nice and they have a ton of gators , I'd definitely recommend checking this place out , has a ton of potential read more

Croc Encounters - Alligators - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Mary A.

1

117

62

1 year ago

This was excellent way to see crocs up close and safely. Highly recommend this place with their structure and reasonable entry fee.

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Rita O.

0

2

1 year ago

Kiana was an amazing and very knowledgeable tour guide! She was super friendly and answered all of our questions. We would have never thought we could have Croc Encounter in Tampa super cool!! We would definitely go back!! read more

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Janna H.

0

89

113

2 years ago

Such an awesome experience! Our Guide Luck was so friendly and informative. We started by holding pearl the snake and then went and saw crocs birds turtles gators snakes lizards. We fed big turtles and then fed a bunch of alligators. To top it off we got to hold smiley the smallest cutest gator ever. TIP: take bug spray Lots of mosquitoes read more

Croc Encounters - Pearl the snake - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Smiley the gator - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Turtle feeding - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Feeding the turtles - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Kelly G.

0

8

4

1 year ago

DJ did an amazing job today showing us around I truly had the best experience here. I'd be coming back just for the sake of it read more

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Carmine W.

1

47

9

2 years ago

Superb experience!!! Alexander was our tour guide, he is extremely knowledgeable and friendly. He is definitely a crocodilian super fan! This attraction is a safe and fun family event. My kids are 6 and 8 and they both enjoyed the tour a lot. Beyond my expectation!!! read more

Croc Encounters - 6 year old feeding a tortoise - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Dee S.

4

8

3

2 years ago

Must visit, whether you live in Tampa or visitors!! We went there on father's day and Alexander did a wonderful job giving us a deeply informative tour. It was hot but walk way was pretty much shaded. Feeding and petting tortoises were so much fun! We really enjoyed our time there. We live in Tampa bay and couldn't believe this place existed. This place is not just a zoo that you walk around!! You will enjoy your visit! read more

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cc s.

0

3

0

11 months ago

Owners are incredibly rude, were extremely disrespectful and impolite towards myself and my party.

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Carolina S.

Elite 26

105

581

4083

5 years ago

We drove all the way here and when we got Theresa 5:30pm the doors were locked. Some guy out back said to call the number (no answer). Nowhere does it say you need an appointment or to call in advance. Got a text message from them saying they would call us, never heard from them! Waste of our time read more

Croc Encounters - Entrance - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Lauren C.

0

5

4

2 years ago

Fantastic! I have lived here my whole 40 years and learned so much today! It was a great value and our guide was amazing! read more

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R N.

0

19

5

3 years ago

We seek out these non-commercial places. Great tour guide Alexander (?) was knowledgeable and made the tour fun. More gators in one spot that I have ever seen with a diverse species of crocs and gators. Go early in the day to see them out getting sun! I forgot to take pics of crocs on my phone so sorry no images here. Worth the drive to this spot read more

Croc Encounters - Turtle! - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Gate - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Kelly Burke J.

0

3

0

1 year ago

Highly recommended!! We just left from an incredibly educational guided tour! Kiana was so knowledgeable, patient, and friendly! Our group of 10 thoroughly enjoyed learning about all of the animals, feeding the tortoises, and holding a baby alligator!! read more

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Tiffany P.

51

73

13

3 years ago

Great place for the kids! We had a fantastic guide who answered all of our questions. There are a lot more creatures other than crocs which was a pleasant surprise. The hour tour went by fast for our whole group. I recommend putting on bug repellent before starting the tour. read more

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T M.

0

22

4

2 years ago

We had a lovely and knowledgeable tour with Alexander at the Croc Encounters this afternoon. Our group ranged in age from 9-70 ish and we all learned something about alligators, crocodiles, caymans and tortoises. Tour is 60+ minutes long with plenty of time for questions and feeding the gators (from afar). I highly recommend this sanctuary for families and adults. read more

Croc Encounters - Feeding time for these rehomed alligators. - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Giant tortoises. - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Red foot tortoises. - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Croc Encounters - Alligators galore. - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Mohamed A.

0

8

4

2 years ago

Ridiculous reservation process. You can't go there or make reservation through the location. Spoke to five people. Got a call from the location and the guy said to come to the location. I jump in the car and drive there and it's locked. A girl pokes her head out and asks me if I have a reservation! I said a guy from the place just called me and told me to come! You call the number and all they do is have someone call you back! Got to Gatorland worth's drive. read more

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Nikki D.

6

2

1

5 years ago

Croc Encounters! I came across this place on google and was just curious to visit it. When I entered this place I was greeted by a giant alligator. :) I looked around and I felt a sense of peacefulness and calmness in the surrounding. The enclosures are well preserved and are perfectly close to the wild habitats. The guide who approached me and gave me the tour was amazing! Thank you, Maddy for accepting me on the last minute. She gave me the time I needed to soak in the whole environment. If you love reptiles then this place is a bliss. :) One of the most beautiful part of my visit was watching the alligator open and close his eyes. So fascinating! P.S.: please book a guided tour for the whole experience. read more

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Irma D.

0

1

2 years ago

I took my summer camp group to Croc Encounters and they had so much fun! We all learned some cool stuff. I highly recommend them. Fun and educational. read more

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Katy R.

159

344

334

5 years ago

This was a very fun activity for us all and really let's you get up close and personal with alligators and crocodiles! Our tour guide Clay was super friendly and informative and taught us so many interesting things about all of the reptiles. We got to watch a few alligators/crocs eat raw chicken, we touched a baby alligators tail, held a snake, saw turtles and tortoises and got to feed tortoises, we also were able to feed a dozens of alligators. In the end we could hold a baby alligator. Overall it was a lot of fun and a must see if you're in the area! read more

Croc Encounters - Arriving - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Lindsay G.

73

11

8

5 years ago

It was cool to see! Held a small Gator Fed a large Tortise Feed a swarm of Gators Destiny was well informed and a great tour guide! read more

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Justin S.

Elite 26

120

148

835

5 years ago

This was a GREAT TIME. I'm a newer resident to tampa and I've seen this pop up many times to try out and I'm glad I did it has the classic "old florida" feel to it. The guy doing the tour was great too. I LOVED the tortoise feeding pen it was so cool to be surrounded by the hungry reptiles. The only reason why I docked a point off the rating is the price is pretty steep for an experience that barely lasted an hour. There's alot to do in florida so I believe they should be a little more competitive. read more

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Nadine S.

94

18

15

3 years ago

Ryan was an AWESOME tour guide! The whole experience was one for the books. All the animals and faced fears of holding snakes and gators. So much fun, will definitely be coming back. read more

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Meagan A.

0

1

5

3 years ago

Ryan was an excellent and knowledgeable tour guide. We really enjoyed learning facts about the toucan, monitors, gators, other animals. We especially enjoyed feeding the tortoises and alligators. read more

Croc Encounters - Tortoise feeding - Zoos Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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More info about Croc Encounters

8703 Bowles Rd
Tampa, FL 33637
Directions
(813) 217-4400
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.crocencounters.com

Hours

What time does Croc Encounters open?

Croc Encounters opens at 8:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Croc Encounters close?

Croc Encounters closes at 8:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Croc Encounters take credit cards?

Yes, Croc Encounters takes credit cards.

Indoor Amenities

Does Croc Encounters allow dogs?

No, Croc Encounters does not allow dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Croc Encounters have bike parking?

Yes, Croc Encounters has bike parking.

Does Croc Encounters have parking?

Yes, Croc Encounters has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Other Amenities

Is Croc Encounters wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Croc Encounters is wheelchair accessible.

Does Croc Encounters have free WiFi?

Yes, Croc Encounters has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Croc Encounters is home to many alligators, crocodiles, snakes, lizards, turtles, tortoises and exotic birds. Many of the animals were unwanted or rescued and we provide a permanent home to them. Hands on tours are offered every day by appointment and walk-in self guided tours are available on Saturday as well. Tours are personalized and include several hands on encounters including feeding demonstrations with alligators and crocodiles, hand feeding and touching of 100 plus pound African tortoises, aquatic turtle feeding, and more. Birthday parties and shows for events are available on site or at your home. During select weeks our summer camp, “croc camp” let’s attendees experience first hand caring for the animals at Croc Encounters as well as learning about reptiles and having fun. Contact us to make a reservation for a tour or to inquire about party or event.

Meet the Business Owner: Paner P.

Croc Encounters is a family owned facility operated by the Paner family. Even our young children take part by helping to feed and care for the animals.

Review Highlights - Croc Encounters

“On the guided tour we saw lots and lots of reptiles, from small to large, all across the world.”

Mentioned in 9 reviews

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Iggy

Petronus Petting Zoo

5.0

(5 reviews)

6.2 mi

I think my 6 year old just had the best birthday party of the year and it's only January! Angela…read morebrought over the cutest, softest, fluffiest bunch of animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, and even a chicken. It was so much fun to pet them and hold them. I think the adults honestly had as much fun as the kids. She was super easy to coordinate with, easy to talk to, and knowledgeable about animals. I so appreciated how she took pictures and texted them to me to share with our guests -- she got some great shots too! Highly recommend.

We loved having the mobile petting zoo come to our house for my sons 3rd birthday. It was a hit,…read morethe kids (and adults) loved it! Such a memorable day. They were on time, brought a big variety of animals and made everything easy for us! Definitely recommend!!

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DK Farms & Gardens

4.2

(37 reviews)

27.3 mi

Family-owned & operated

Locally owned & operated

Omg this place is like heaven. I never wanted to leave. Staff is AWESOME and KIND, let us ask…read morequestions. Staff are always loving toward the animals and have special bonds with them. Food truck was delicious. As a Florida girl I've seen tons of farms, but never one this clean. Goats were so sweet... but I'll warn you they do jump on you lol. Also the new baby capybara are so cute they make these cute little chirps a MUST SEE. Now seeing all the one star reviews I would like to let y'all know it was VERY REASONABLY priced and I'm guessing the people who are saying it's overpriced never has know how much vet bills, animal food, shelter and lots more goes into taking care of ton of animals. It is SO worth it for the price and would definitely recommend it to everyone

DK Farms this was such a magical event! Megan was 10/10. Will book again. Lucky even charmed the…read morejuggler!

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Multiple Ceremony Location Options

Outdoor Barn Wedding Venue

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Multiple Ceremony Location Options

Manatee Viewing Center

4.6

(372 reviews)

16.6 mi

Had a fantastic visit to the manatee viewing area near Tampa. This is such a unique and peaceful…read morespot where you can actually get close views of manatees in their natural environment, especially when the water is cooler and they come in to warm up. The viewing area is well maintained with easy walkways and good spots to stop and watch without feeling crowded. It is calm, relaxing, and a great place to just slow down and take in nature. We were able to pet a few stingrays but not see any manatees. There are also helpful signs and information that explain the manatees and the area, which makes it even more interesting. It is a great place for families, tourists, or anyone who just wants a quiet nature break around Tampa. Overall, a super memorable and peaceful experience. Easy 5 stars and definitely worth visiting if you are in the area.

Took a trip out to the Manatee viewing center while we were in the area. This is a free…read moreexperience, if you're looking for something to do outside, and enjoy with family/kids. The parking lot is a bit small, but if you're lucky you can find a spot in the main lot, otherwise, you have to go down the road to another lot where they shuttle you to the viewing center. They have a small interior space with lots of educational and fun info to learn about the manatees and other creatures living in the area. They also have a small cafe to grab snacks at. The weather on our visit, was nice, but a bit cold, so I think it helped keep some of the crowds away. The water was a bit murky, i think due to the recent tide change, but still always fun to see them a little bit up close, but still in the wild, just doing their thing , and enjoying the warm waters near the power plant. a definite fun, free spot to check out if you're looking for something to do

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Tarpon Springs Aquarium and Animal Sanctuary

4.1

(133 reviews)

26.7 mi

This was our first time visiting the aquarium since it moved from the sponge docks, and what a…read morepleasure it was. You have opportunities to feed, baby sharks, baby alligators, interact with stingrays, check out some very interesting larger fish up close, get more familiar with various lizards and reptiles, and my favorite was interacting and feeding with the farm animals It's a smaller sized aquarium, but still informative and very enjoyable Highly recommend for an afternoon event

Want to touch some slimy sting rays? Or feed them? How about petting a shark? Or feed a sea turtle?…read moreMaybe a baby alligator? How about hold an alligator or a snake? Our family is local and told us about this place, it's a small family owned business which we like to support. Such a great experience for our kids. They enjoyed themselves. You have to buy tickets to feed the animals, all prices were reasonable, they offered annual passes as well as kids tickets, and senior tickets, and kids 0-2 are free. If you are in the area and have a few hours you want to kill definitely go check this place out. Also right down the road about 10 mins is sunset beach.

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Big kids!

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Laughing at this photo! You do not have to pay for any pictures. Photo opportunities are free.

Suncoast Primate Sanctuary Foundation

3.5

(91 reviews)

26.2 mi

I visited Suncoast Primate Sanctuary after finding it on Groupon. I learned that it used to be a…read moreroadside attraction where people could buy monkeys and take them home, but it has since become a rescue and retirement sanctuary. Each primate has a story, and while many of them are sad, I'm grateful there is now a safe place where they are cared for. The volunteers were kind, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about the animals. The visit was emotional and a bit depressing at times, but that's to be expected given the nature of a rescue sanctuary. I still strongly encourage people to support this place and the important work they do. One tip: wear bug spray -- I ended up with quite a few bites on my legs.

My second trip to the sanctuary was on Mother's Day. I love…read moreall animals especially the monkeys. They are all well kept. The staff are all knowledgeable about the animals and very friendly.

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Baby Alligator Wow!!!! This guy was very nice

Suncoast Animal Sanctuary

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They let my son hold a snake, it made his world!!! Thank you :), what a great fathers day

Desoto Park

4.3

(8 reviews)

7.4 mi

Nice green space along the waterfront in a very urban setting. It was nice to see so many people…read moreenjoying it. Lots of fisherman, families and even saw a young couple having a picnic date. The facilities look to be pretty well maintained.

ive been going here for years, lovely place, need some visual work, but not a big deal, and lovely…read morepeople in the summer camp (id leave a heart but im on the pc)

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Lap area and big kid slide.

Waterfall, splash area, and kiddy slide.

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Wheelchair accessible playground!

Riverwalk Boating

4.7

(130 reviews)

8.9 mi

I will be coming back again! Cons: I felt lost the whole…read moretime! It was January! And we got wet and it was COLD! Downtown parking SUCKS! Pros: WE SAW DOLPHINS! or was it sharks? I had the BEST TIME! The staff is SO GREAT explaining the map, the signs! How to handle the other boaters! The price is definitely reasonable! Great date idea! I've lived in Tampa half my life and had never been out on the Bay! Next time I do this, I am wearing sun block! Clothes to get wet in! And waiting for warmer weather!

This was a such a fun and easy activity to do in Tampa. We were able to drive our own boat and went…read moresee some of the beautiful houses along the bay for about an hour. The staff made it really easy to rent the boat and explained all the safety precautions really well. Jason, the owner, went above and beyond in customer care. I left my watch on the boat, and he sent it back to me the next day. They were very responsive and helpful when needed most! Highly recommend using Riverwalk Boating Company to make your trip to Tampa extra special and fun!!

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Riverwalk

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Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

30 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Desiree P.

0

12

1

3 years ago

Went to Gator Encounters for a 9 yr Olds birthday party. We had a blast and the TOUR GUIDE was AMAZING!!! HOWEVER, I will never return to this place ever again. Why? Because the Owner is a raging D*@k. He thought it would be prime time to work on the entrench with heavy machinery and as the party left out, he REFUSED to move his equipment to allow visitors to leave. He actually started screaming and cussing at one of the party guest, with her KIDS in the car!! Straight up called this woman a dumb B^&$h, in front of her children & all of the children that were playing in the playground area outside refusing to allow someone to leave is False Inprisonment!! You know it's bad when the guide apologizes for HIS bosses behavior. tlThis guy is a piece of work! He literally has no respect for his paying guests or the children that he supposedly caters to!! WE WILL NOT BE BACK! read more

Andy C.

0

1

0

4 years ago

My wife and two children, 7 and 5 Years old, had a blast!!! The guided tour provided by Clay was really awesome and interesting too. He told us all about how they get their animals(mostly peoples old pets that got to big) so this sanctuary of a place provides a good home for these Animals that also showcases how something bad, like people dumping gators and lizards into the wild because they got to big as a pets, and they provided them with proper care and shelter and food. Clay and Dorian provided us with awesome facts for the crocs and gators and lizards and turtles and tortoise. Great way to spend an hour or so of your time. Awesome job Clay and Dorian!!! Andrew C. read more

Lina L.

Elite 26

95

625

1613

2 years ago

The adventures of elementary school field trips - when you have no idea what you've signed up for, but you're in it for the ride anyway. One day, I found myself smack dab in the middle of a gator haven, surrounded by alligators, crocodiles, and tortoises. Because, you know, that's exactly where every wide-eyed kid wants to be. I'll never forget that moment when I looked down and was greeted by what seemed like a hundred pairs of crocodile eyes, all sizing me up like I was the special of the day. Despite the heart-pounding moments, I have to admit - I had a blast. It was a wild and unforgettable experience, full of fun (and a bit of terror). read more

Annie J.

0

1

0

1 year ago

Dj did a amazing job for only 2 months of experience he talked about the animals arrival and if it was a pet or a outdoor animal. The parrot that they have loved Peekaboo it was so cute to see it would look up and down my sister would go up and down tortoise ( it's name) would also go up and down. We fed the alligators, tortoises, and the turtles. We held a snake, Crocodile / Alligator. By far the best Florida experience ever great job Dj you were the best. read more

Christina L.

0

1

3

7 months ago

DJ was our guide, he was fantastic. Nobody showed up for the 12pm tour so it was just my husband and I. I think it was even better that way! DJ was very knowledgeable and had a good sense of humour. He spoke to us about each reptile and answered all of my many questions. Had a wonderful time! Would definitely recommend. All their animals are surrenders or have been injured in the wild. Definitely not a "zoo" feel which is exactly what we were looking for! read more

Ally T.

0

4

0

7 years ago

Went here for my daughter's school field trip. I wasn't sure what to expect when I first pulled up but this turned out to be a little known gem. Staff was friendly and very knowledgeable. Animals were well taken care of and handled respectfully. Our tour guide was very patient with the kids and their questions. I highly recommend it for tourists and locals. Really hope to see it grow in the future. read more

Hilary D.

64

6

1

8 years ago

The staff was very friendly. We got to see Amos their 14 foot crocodile eat a huge snapper. I have never seen tortoises so quick! We got to go and feed them! We had our boys 7 and 10. My nephew who is one was in a stroller. They all enjoyed it. It's a quick walk around but stayed about 45-50 minutes. Worth $10 per person! Bring cash. Thanks Croc Encounters! We enjoyed how low key it was. read more

John J.

0

1

0

1 year ago

DJ did a wonderful job had a group of 10 people was private, and explained and talked about all the animals spoke about how the arrivaled etc. Awesome experience well worth it to check it out! held snakes,alligators. Fed the tortoises and alligators, also fed the the turtles talked to the bird. Best flordia experience ever great job DJ! read more

Anna F.

3

34

29

1 year ago

I visited Croc Encounters to introduce my niece to the fascinating world of crocodiles. The knowledgeable staff provided engaging information about the different species and their habitats. We enjoyed the hands-on experience with the turtles. Fantastic spot for families looking to learn and have fun. read more

Rebecca F.

0

3

0

4 years ago

Wonderful time during the tour. Good knowledge and very patient! Maddie and Jovan have a love for animals that is evident. If you want to learn more and have a fun time go and explore. The kids and 7 and 5 loved it. The husband loved it more than the kids! read more

Mikayla L.

0

1

2

5 years ago

This was a fantastic experience. I got a private tour and the guide was amazing! Super knowledgeable, and funny. And if course the best part is holding the baby alligator. I highly recommend if you have a love for reptiles. I plan on coming back read more

Eloy F.

166

2

0

8 years ago

My friends and I had such a fun time with our tour guide Tyler! Was very knowledgeable about the different reptiles they had and even joked around with us that really sold us on the experience. Definitely a great way to end a trip in Tampa. read more

Anita L.

0

1

0

5 years ago

we went on a guided tour today and it was great ! my grand daughters enjoyed it so much they want a return visit. Carley was our guide. She was so knowledgeable and spoke so clearly that it made the tour one we will always remember ! read more

Dotti B.

0

4

0

5 years ago

Fun for the whole family. A hidden gem in the Tampa Bay area. Easy to find, ample parking (free). Interactive tours. Photo opportunities. Friendly and helpful staff. I've been several times, and will definitely go again. read more

Erin K.

144

8

1

4 years ago

Croc encounters is amazing! We had a blast here visiting from Texas. Loved how authentic the experience was. The critters are amazing. Maddy our guide was wonderful! Highly recommended by all in our group, ages 11 to 65. read more

Brenda L.

0

1

0

5 years ago

This encounter tour was incredible. It's amazing how the surroundings are much like how they would be in nature, very rustic. The guide, Destiny was very knowledgeable and friendly. Will definitely do this again. read more

Kevin C.

0

12

0

5 years ago

Such a fun place! We were in town with our kids visiting the grandparents. We searched for fun places in Tampa. This place was awesome! Great tour guides and so many reptiles. We'd definitely recommend it! read more

Maddy B.

0

2

5 years ago

Loved going went with my boyfriend and friend. Had a wonderful time our tour guide Maddie (who had the same name as me) was very funny, knowledgeable, and kind. We even got to see two turtles getting it on. read more

Roxanne M.

0

3

0

5 years ago

Croc Encounters was awesome! Loved the experience and Clay was an awesome tour guide. You can tell he loves his job. And he gave us the best beach recommendation that made our whole trip. Clay is the bomb! read more

Steve W.

0

2

0

3 years ago

This place was cool. They had both gators and crocs that Maddie the tour guide interacted with. My kids and nephews had a blast and I'd highly recommend it to anyone who likes reptiles. read more

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ZooTampa at Lowry Park

The Florida Aquarium

Serengeti Safari

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Odessa Wildlife Rescue and Sanctuary

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DK Farms & Gardens

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Suncoast Primate Sanctuary Foundation

Trending businesses in Croc Encounters's area

Desoto Park

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30 Croc Encounters reviews that are not currently recommended

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

30 reviews that are not currently recommended

Croc Encounters - zoos - Updated July 2026

Best of Tampa

People found Croc Encounters by searching for…

Trending Searches in Tampa, FL

Browse Articles

Browse Nearby

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Related Cost Guides

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