Missouri's parks offer a variety of unique adventures - from hiking trails that hide magnificent chiseled caves to rock climbing opportunities that promise some downright breathtaking views. Did you know there's an animal park in Van Buren, Missouri, too, where you can pet kangaroos? But that's just the start of the fun that awaits at this unique, family-friendly destination.

While Missouri's many parks usually offer the chance to view local wildlife, Missouri Down Under Adventure Zoo gives us the unique opportunity to travel to Australia - or at least to feel as though we have.

If you love animals, you'll definitely want to add this animal park in Missouri to your bucket list.

But it gets even better. You can pet a kangaroo at this unique Missouri zoo. Journey through the Australian Outbook where you'll pass kangaroos hopping around, relaxing, and...waiting for a treat.

Learn all about these beautiful animals, too, from the staff who share information and stories about the kangaroos.

Buy zoo-approved treats that you can feed to the kangaroos, who are usually open to being pet, and snap photos.

Feed usually costs between one and five dollars. Allot at least half an hour for your time with the kangaroos.

While the kangaroos are probably the highlight for most visitors, your fun is just beginning. Stroll around the zoo where you'll meet a variety of animals, from ducks to...

Peacocks. If you're lucky, you might even cross paths with a peacock who opens his feathers for you.

Carve out at least an hour or two for your visit. You'll also meet goats, tortoises, lemurs, lorikeets, and porcupines.

Down Under Adventure Zoo also offers gem mining, a fun and family-friendly activity, and a quarry dig.

If you've got time, join one of the guided tours of the Current River Cave.

Before you buy a ticket for the cave tour, however, make sure you're wearing shoes you don't mind getting wet. You'll also have to climb around 40 stairs.

Find more information on the official website of Missouri Down Under Adventure Zoo. Or, stop by the Facebook page of this animal park in Missouri.

Have you been to this animal park in Van Buren, Missouri? Did you pet a kangaroo? Share your experience in the comments! While you're in the area, head over to Big Spring, one of the best natural wonders in Missouri.

Before your adventure to this animal park in Missouri, make sure you have a pair of comfy shoes and a camera.