There’s A Wildlife Park In Ohio That’s Perfect For A Family Day Trip
Few people know that there are giraffes, monkeys and zebras hiding in northern Ohio.
The quaint fishing town of Port Clinton is home to a unique park that’s perfect for a family day trip. The African Safari Wildlife Park is a walk and drive-thru park that features exotic animals―many of which you can feed yourself. The next time you’re in the area, you’ll want to stop and check it out. Here’s why:
Most people don't even know this safari park exists, making it another one of Ohio's hidden gems.
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You'll find it at 267 S Lightner Rd., Port Clinton, OH 43452.
When you arrive at the park, you'll take the drive-thru portion first. Animal feed and carrots are available for purchase at the entrance.
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Along the way, you'll see some really interesting animals, some of which you may recognize―and others you may not.
If you choose to feed the animals, staff will let you know when and where it's OK to roll down your window and do so.
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(Just don't feed them directly out of your hand!)
Some of the animals you'll see along the drive-thru portion of the park include giraffes, camels, alpacas, elk, bison, deer, guanaco, llamas and even zebras.
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Note: During your drive-thru journey, it can get crowded. Just drive slowly and staff will come along to help if needed.
After the drive-thru portion, you can park your car and get out and explore the park some more.
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During the spring and fall seasons, you can visit the park on February 23 - May 24 and September 4- December 2 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily.
During the walk-thru portion of the park you'll find monkeys, parrots, alligators...
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During the summer season, you can visit the park from May 25 - September 3 from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
...and even some kangaroos, (which you can also feed―accompanied by a guide ―for an additional fee.)
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Please note: Admission rates vary according to season and age. Children 2 and under are free.
Additionally, there's some playground equipment on site for the little ones to enjoy, as well as a concession stand. It's a great place to spend the day with the family.
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(Group rates are also offered, but reservations are required.)
African Safari Wildlife Park is located at 267 S Lightner Rd., Port Clinton, OH 43452. For admission prices and other information, click here. Have you ever been here before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!
For more unique parks to explore in Ohio, click here.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
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April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
