Posted in Arizona November 05, 2020 by

Most People Don’t Know About This Underrated Zoo Hiding In Arizona

A zoo? In Prescott? That’s right—it may be lesser-known than our big city zoos, but Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary is every bit as entertaining. Meet exotic animals, brave a house full of spiders, watch bears and mountain lions getting fed, and beat the crowds often found at larger wildlife parks.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, previously known as the Heritage Park Zoo, has been welcoming visitors since 1985.
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It houses nearly 100 animals, both native and exotic, many of which are non-releasable—meaning they have no place else to live out their lives.
Large enclosures seek to mimic the natural habitats of the animals living in them.
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Connected by paved walkways, the exhibits offer a seamless viewing experience that's equal parts entertaining and informative.
Are you brave enough to enter the Tarantula Grotto?
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The zoo boasts one of the largest tarantula displays in the nation, with nine species from the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Other invertebrates on display include the Emperor Scorpion and Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches.
Head into the Reptile House, where you'll meet over three dozen different types of the scaly creatures.
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From slithery serpents to leaping lizards and everything in-between, the variety is beyond impressive.
How slow can you go?
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Two tortoises, named Herman and Holly, round out the reptile bunch. They can't wait to meet you!
Feeding time is 11 a.m. for the mountain lion, and 1:15 p.m. for the black bears.
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Watch them chow down on fruit platters, meats, and other nutritious morsels, gearing up for a long nap. The large mammal group also consists of the Mexican Wolf, Canadian Lynx, and Clouded Leopard.
Lemurs, porcupines, llamas, pot-bellied pigs, and a slew of birds are just some of the other resident animals.
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Which ones are you most excited about?
At the Kiwanis Korner Animal Encounter, visitors can get up-close-and-personal with all sorts of adorable creatures.
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It's geared towards younger crowds, offering a hands-on, educational experience, but all ages are sure to have a blast.

Hours are 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily. Admission is $10 for adults ages 13-64, $6 for children 3-12, and $8 for seniors, military, and students (with ID.) Kids under three, as well as zoo members, get in free. Visit the zoo’s website or Facebook page to learn more.

Have you ever been to the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary? If so, what’s your favorite exhibit? Let us know, and check out our previous article for another family-fun adventure in Prescott.

Address: 1403 Heritage Park Rd, Prescott, AZ 86301, USA