The Central Florida Zoo was first established as the Sanford Zoo in 1923 when a rhesus monkey was given to the Elks Club in Sanford by a traveling circus. More animals were added to the collection, held by the Sanford Fire Department, including a female monkey, a bulldog, a skunk, an opossum, a raccoon and a squirrel.

Zoo explorers of all ages can jump into the Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground for a quick and easy way to beat the heat.

The Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground features streams, sprinklers and sprays creating a cool oasis inside the Central Florida Zoo. With water features including an animal features, raining trees, and a bucket dump, it’s the perfect place for kids of all ages.

The Tropical Splash Ground is included in your regular Zoo admission.

Visit our website to learn more and get tickets today!