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The Family Vacation Guide

12 of the Best Drive Thru Zoos & Safaris in the US

posted by Charmaine Cortes on December 23, 2022 // last updated on June 12, 2023

To get a one-of-a-lifetime safari experience, you do not have to travel long distances or go overseas. There are plenty of drive-thru zoos in the US that enable you to encounter exotic species from the safety and comfort of your own car.

If you are an adventurer looking forward to experiencing wildlife, here are our recommendations for the best drive-thru zoos, safaris, and wildlife preserves to have an exciting road trip. 

African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio

Wildlife safari in oregon, bearizona wildlife park in arizona, phoenix zoo in phoenix, pine mountain wild animal safari park in georgia, custer state park resort in south dakota, lion country safari in loxahatchee, florida, lee richardson zoo in garden city, kansas, natural bridge wildlife ranch in san antonio, texas, southwick’s zoo in madison, massachusetts, arbuckle wilderness park in davis, oklahoma, safari lake geneva in lake geneva, wisconsin.

From alpacas, emus, llamas, zebras, and giraffes to fallow deer, white bison, and a variety of wild birds, visiting the African Safari Wildlife Park can be an unforgettable experience. This drive-thru safari is home to a lot of unique species and puts animal safety and health as its top priority. 

Here, you will also come across many species of wildflowers and plants. The safari offers various activities, including a walk-thru safari in spring, giraffe encounters, a safari cafe, and gem mining. It provides an adventurous experience and enables visitors to get up close and personal with hundreds of animals from around the world. 

Website: www.africansafariwildlifepark.com

Cost: Ticket prices range from $14.95 to $29.95; free for children of 2 and under

Note: While the African Safari Wildlife is open the whole year around, there are certain animals you can only view during the warm months, which is something to consider when going. 

In the Wildlife Safari in Oregon, you can come across a variety of species, including Tibetan Yanks, camels, African elephants, hippopotamuses, and American alligators. The accredited safari has one of the most successful cheetah breeding programs in the US, which you can support with donations.

Hop on the safari tour vehicle and meet and feed one of the most adorable animals, like red pandas or get closer to the king of the jungle and head to the elephant barn to meet with these animals and take a photo. The Wildlife Safari in Oregon offers a lot of activities and safari events. 

The Safari includes bused or open-air adventures through the park’s drive-thru, which is very exciting, but you can also sign up for activities such as hippo encounters, tiger feed, walking with cheetahs, and more. 

Website: www.wildlifesafari.net

Cost: Drive-thru safari tickets range from $17.95 to $23.95 

Note: This is an excellent 60-90 minutes experience for families. The tour features diverse wildlife from the US, Africa, and Asia. 

The Bearizona Wildlife Park provides a natural, spacious environment. The visitors drive through the largest ponderosa pine forest and view various animals in their natural habitats from their own private vehicles. 

Jump on the Wild Ride bus with their tour guides and get familiar with each animal that you encounter along this 3-mile safari. During your drive, you can also get off the bus for a unique backstage experience and view the wolf training sessions.

On this journey, you can witness a broad range of animals, such as black bears, Alaskan tundra wolves, reindeer, arctic wolves, mule deer, and so much more. The mission of the zoo is to promote the preservation through educational encounters of North American wildlife. 

Website: www.bearizona.com

Cost: Ticket prices range from $20 to $50; free for children of 3 and under

Note: Aside from the exciting drive-thru, you can also scroll through the park, enjoy unique animal encounters and dine in their themed restaurant. 

The Phoenix Zoo cares for more than 3,000 animals, including endangered species. Their guided drive-thru tours cover a wide range of animals, which makes it a thrilling experience. There are also plenty of fun daily activities happening in the zoo, including camel rides, giraffe encounters, and others. 

During the tour, you will drive past the main areas of the zoo, including the Africa Trail, where there are rhinos and zebras, and the Tropics Trail, where you will witness elephants and tigers roaming around. 

The Arizona Center for Nature Conservation also features discovery tours, backstage and premium adventures, as well as custom guided tours. Among the animals you can come across at this zoo are Asian elephants, coyotes, Mexican grey wolves, white-faced Saki monkeys, cheetahs, flamingos, and more. 

Website: www.phoenixzoo.org

Cost: $65 per vehicle 

Note: The number of vehicles per day is limited, so make sure to get tickets on time. 

Among the best drive-thru zoos in the US is the Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari Park in Georgia. The safari park allows visitors to encounter more than 120 species of animals, including lizards, wolves, ostriches, parrots, lemurs, and many others.

You will travel down a 2.5-mile trail and view a wide variety of animals along the way. To experience the excitement of the safari, you can use your own vehicle, rent one or get into a bus for a guide. 

Aside from seeing the wild animals, this drive-thru zoo enables horse riding adventures and exclusive animal encounters that allow you to interact with some of them. This is an animal-friendly park for visitors of all ages, where you will have a chance to meet some of the zoo’s friendliest animals. 

Website: www.animalsafari.com/georgia-park-home-about-us/

Cost: Adult (ages 13-64) – $29.00; junior (ages 3-12) – $24.00; senior (age 65+) – $24.00

Note: You can feed the animals with only park-purchased food. 

Go through the park in an open-air jeep or your own vehicle to look for prairie dogs, buffalos, elks, and pronghorns. The guided tour takes around two hours and features guides that share historical and educational stories about the wildlife and the park. The tours depart from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. every day and offer breathtaking views of nature. 

Website: www.custerresorts.com

Cost: Adults – $68; Children (under 12) – $58

Note: You need to make a reservation to get a drive-thru experience.

Despite the name, the Lion Country Safari is home to more than 1,000 animals. During the 4-mile-long drive-through, you can view animals from six different countries, such as lions, zebras, giraffes, white rhinos, chimpanzees, and more.

All of the animals roam in naturalistic habitats. The Lion Country Safari was the very first drive-thru safari park in the United States, as it was established in 1967. After you finish the drive-thru, you can also enjoy activities like boat rides, carnival rides, and water attractions.

Website: www.lioncountrysafari.com

Cost: $34-$45

Note: The safari preserve is divided into seven natural habitats you can visit. 

The Lee Richardson Zoo offers visitors a drive-thru of the park to view wild animals. The zoo is home to over 300 hundred native and exotic animals, including lions, alpacas, Amur leopards, camels, bison, bobcats, elk, giraffes, jaguars, sloth bears, and much more. Each animal is an ambassador of its counterparts, promoting the conservation of wild animals. 

Website: www.leerichardsonzoo.org

Cost: $10 per vehicle, pedestrian entry for free

Note: The Lee Richardson Zoo is open the whole year around 

Start your adventure with the 450-acre safari drive-thru in San Antonio, Texas. Here visitors can interact with animals and look at picturesque views that resemble safari in Africa. You can view over 40 species of animals from the comfort of your own vehicle and roam around the trees and the hills within the ranch.

The safari covers 6 miles and provides 1-2 hours of an incredible experience. You can also get a guided tour from animal specialists and feed the animals. During the guided tours, the visitors can learn more about the animals and come across ostriches, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and other animal species.

Website: www.wildliferanchtexas.com

Cost: Adults (12-64 years) – $28.99;  children (3-11 years) – $19.99;  seniors (65+years) – $25.99

Note: Check your map before the visit, as there are different routes to take.

Among the best drive-thru zoos in the US is Southwick’s Zoo which enables visitors to go on a self-driven tour of the 200-acre park. On such a 45-minute tour, you will come across various wild animals and download an audio tour as well. 

After the journey, the visitors can also order takeaway from the restaurant, go on rides and visit attractions, or book a giraffe, rhino, or sloth animal encounter. 

Website: www.southwickszoo.com

Cost: $60/car

Note: The guests should arrive 30 minutes before the selected tour time.

Go on a safari-like experience as you drive through 200 acres in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains and come across hundreds of exotic animals roaming free. This park is also a home for reptiles and is filled with diverse creatures from over five continents.

Llamas, giraffes, donkeys, camels, deers, yaks, zebras, and more; you can enjoy feeding animals from the comfort of your own vehicle. The Arbuckle Wilderness Park provides an exciting adventure for guests of all ages. 

Website: www.arbucklewildernesspark.com

Cost: Adults – $16.99; kids (4-11) – $14.99; senior citizens – $14.99

Note: The drive-thru safari is open every day. 

The wildlife preserve known as Safari Lake Geneva is home to animals from all around the world. You can drive through this safari park as many times as you want and view the variety of animals that are free to roam. 

Moreover, you can also purchase a bowl of grain and feed the animals as you come close to them. Here you can drive your own vehicle or rent a Zebra van if desired. You can opt for a solo trip or bring your whole family for a unique safari adventure. 

Website: www.safarilakegeneva.com

Cost: Adult (ages 16+) – $21.95; children (ages 3-15) – $14.95; infants (ages 2 and under) – free

Note: The giraffes may not be visible during unpleasant weather.

If you are on a hunt for drive-thru zoos and safaris for an unforgettable experience, you can choose the one that appeals to you the most from our list. The zoos are home to a wide number of animals which we often see on TV, and they also offer many activities for their visitors, including special animal encounters. 

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

17 Accredited Drive Through Zoos and Safaris in the U.S.

After years of traveling around the United States, both with my family and without, I have run across many drive through zoos, safari parks, and wildlife preserves. As traditional zoos have transitioned to animal conservation and education over entertainment, there has been a shift to larger, more natural animal habitats and enclosures. The nice thing about drive through safaris and zoos is that most have acres and acres of land for animals to roam in a much more natural setting.

I constantly struggle with the benefits of zoos versus the negative impacts of keeping animals in captivity. Although I know many have different views, I see many benefits of these safari and wildlife parks from seeing the simple joy on a child’s face when they see an animal in person that inspires a lifelong interest in animal preservation, to the important research that these parks provide in understanding animal behavior and saving them from extinction.

That said, I do think we need to be careful about which establishments we support, which is why I have included only the zoos and safari parks that are accredited members of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums or the Zoological Association of America .

Drive Through Zoos & Safaris

I have intentionally left out a few safari parks, even ones that I have visited because greater research showed that they weren’t accredited by one of those two widely recognized organizations. (I found this article helpful in understanding the different types of accreditation and what it means.)

As of this writing, this list is only of drive through zoos and safaris that are accredited AZA or ZAA establishments or overseen by government wildlife entities. I have included drive through safaris and wildlife parks where you can either self-drive your own vehicle or take a safari tour or safari ride through the animal habitats.

Lion Country Safari, Loxahatchee, Florida

Founded in 1967 as the first drive-through safari park in the United States,  Lion Country Safari is the largest attraction in The Palm Beaches. This park is home to more than 1,000 animals, which can be viewed along the 4-mile-long drive-through preserve and walk-through habitats on the 320-acre park. Animals from six different continents can be found at Lion Country Safari, including lions, white rhinos, chimpanzees, zebras, giraffes, and more.

After taking a scenic drive through the preserve, guests can enjoy the rides and attractions at Safari World. These include a boat ride on the Safari Queen, a paddleboat, miniature golf, a carousel, a Flying Elephant ride, and the Rio Grande Train. Safari World also includes Safari Plunge water slides, so guests can really make a day of their visit.

Lion Country Safari is located at 2003  Lion Country Safari Road, Loxahatchee, Florida 33470. Editor’s note: I was provided with a complimentary tour at Lion Country Safari, and I have also visited on my own. All opinions are my own.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Orlando, Florida

Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of many attractions at Animal Kingdom in Walt Disney World . Ticketed guests can ride a guided safari vehicle through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, home to 34 species over 110 acres of plains, forests, and rocky wetlands. This is a quick 18-minute ride in which guests will see animals such as a hippopotamus, giraffes, lions, elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, crocodiles, elephants, hyenas, zebras, and more.

Animal Kingdom is located at 2901 Osceola Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32830.

Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari, Jackson, New Jersey

Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari is an amusement park and animal preserve combined. Guests can explore this 350-acre preserve, containing 1,200 animals from six continents including elephants, rhinos, tigers, giraffes, and lions. This drive through safari takes 1.5 to 3 hours to complete and covers the Americas, Afrikka, Wild Plains, Serengeti Grasslands, Black Bear Ridge, Kingsland, Tigris Asiana, and more.

Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari is located at 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson, NJ 08527.

Lake Tobias Wildlife Park, Halifax, Pennsylvania

Lake Tobias Wildlife Park is a 150-acre wildlife park and zoo in Central Pennsylvania. You can roam through the many wildlife habitats to see giraffes, tigers, zebras, baboons ostriches, gibbons, kangaroos, lions, and much more. Then, ride a Safari Tour and hand-feed wildlife such as bison, water buffalo, yak, eland, and watusi.

Lake Tobias Wildlife Park is located at 760 Tobias Road, Halifax, PA 17032.

Cacoctin Wildlife Preserve, Thurmont, Maryland

While you can’t drive your own car on this drive through zoo, you can take a one-hour adventure ride on a safari vehicle through the Cacoctin Wildlife Preserve , which showcases exotic animals from six continents across twenty-five wooded acres and four different paddocks.

The Safari ride features African Zebra, North American Bison, Dromedary Camels, Asian and African Antelope, giant birds like Ostrich and Emu, European deer, Eurasian wild sheep, and unusual cattle, donkey and goat breeds from around the world.

Cacoctin Wildlife Preserve is located at 13019 Catoctin Furnace Road, Thurmont, MD 21788.

Virginia Safari Park, Natural Bridge, Virginia

Visitors of Virginia Safari Park can drive their own vehicles over three miles of a maintained gravel road to see and feed the animals on the 180-acre property. These encounters include elk and deer, which are free to roam and interact with visitors and each other throughout the property.

Virginia Safari Park also offers giraffe feeding, a petting zoo, and a chance to see tigers, penguins, and kangaroos in exhibits on the walk-through safari. Please note that the Virginia Safari Park is NOT associated with the Natural Bridge Zoo, which is also located in Natural Bridge in Shenandoah Valley.

Virginia Safari Park is located at 229 Safari Lane, Natural Bridge, VA 24578.

African Safari Wildlife Park, Port Clinton, Ohio

African Safari Wildlife Park  is home to giraffes, zebra, alpaca, bison, elk, and more. African Safari Wildlife Park offers both a drive-through and walk-through safari option. One cup of animal food per car is included with admission. The park is not open year-round, so check the website for current opening dates and hours.

African Safari Wildlife Park is located at 267 S. Lightner Road, Port Clinton OH 43452.

The Wilds, Cumberland, Ohio

The Wilds spreads across 9,000 acres and is home to rare and endangered species from around the globe living in open-range habitats. This land that was once devoted to strip mining is now a private, non-profit safari park that combines conservation science and education programs. Guests can also enjoy immersive experiences such as zip line tours, horseback riding, fishing, and more.

Open-air safari tours take two hours and include a guided tour on an open-air vehicle with stops at Lake Trail and the Carnivore Center. Animals include giraffes, cheetahs, white rhinos, camels, trumpeter swans, zebras, oryx, and more.

The Wilds are located at 14000 International Rd, Cumberland, OH 43732.

Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park & Wildlife Safari, Ashland, Nebraska

The Lee. G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari is also a wildlife preserve and part of Omaha’s famous Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. The Wildlife Safari Park offers a four-mile, drive-through North American wildlife experience.

On this safari, you can see bison, elk, wolves, prairie dogs, deer, eagles, pelicans, and more up close and personal. There is also a viewing deck overlooking the 40 acres of woodland hills and open grasslands that make up the Bison Plains. In addition, a nature-based playground offers opportunities to explore, play and learn.

The Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park & Wildlife Safari is located at 16406 N. 292 Street, Ashland, Nebraska 68003.

Lee Richardson Zoo, Garden City, Kansas

The Lee Richardson Zoo is home to 300 native and exotic animals over 50 acres. The zoo is free to pedestrians or visitors can pay to drive through the park to see the wild animals.

Each animal is an ambassador for their wild counterparts promoting the understanding and conservation of wildlife and wild places.  Animals include lions, alpacas, addax, Amur leopards, camels, bison, ferrets, bobcats, elk, giraffes, jaguars, sloth bears, and so much more.

The Lee Richardson Zoo is located at 312 E Finnup Drive, Garden City, KS 67846.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, Glen Rose, Texas

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center offers a 1,800-acre wildlife center with self-driven or guided safaris. Altogether they maintain 1,100 animals of 50 different species including bison, cheetah, wildebeest, emus, kudus, giraffes, zebras, wolves, rhinos, and more in a natural environment.

Unlike other safari drive-thrus, Fossil Rim has a focus on conservation and they have even successfully reintroduced an oryx species back into the wild in Chad. Fossil Rim is also the largest successful breeding facility for the endangered cheetah in the world.  To date, they’ve had over 200 cheetah cubs which are critical for their conservation efforts. 

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is located at 2155 County Road 2008, Glen Rose, Texas 76043.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, Texas

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch offers an African safari, Texas-style, and is one of Texas’ most recognized family entertainment attractions. Visitors can join a guided tour or drive their own vehicle through 450 acres of rolling hills, creek beds, and live oak trees.

The safari trek covers over six miles of the scenic Texas Hill Country and takes approximately an hour to an hour and a half to drive through. Guests will have a different adventure on each visit, witnessing the behavior of over 500 animals from 40 exotic, native and endangered animal species worldwide.

After the drive, families can walk through the giraffe barn and meander over to Lemur Island, the habitat of the Ring-Tailed Lemurs.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is located at 26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266.

Bearizona Wildlife Park, Williams, Arizona

One hour south of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, Bearizona covers approximately 160 acres. Visitors can drive through more than three miles of Ponderosa Pine Forest, viewing North American animals in natural habitats as they go. There are also more animals in Fort Bearizona, a 20-acre walk-thru area, in a zoo-like setting.

Bearizona Wildlife Park is located at 1500 E Rte 66, Williams, AZ 86046 .

Camel Safari, Bunkerville, Nevada

Camel Safari offers guided safari tours that include guests riding either on the back of a camel, aboard our Safari Tram or on ATVs to view 40+ camelids up-close.

Located an hour north of Las Vegas, Camel Safari also offers evening VIP Sunset Safaris that include animal encounters while enjoying a stunning Mojave Desert sunset and roasting marshmallows for s’mores over a fire. Guided safaris are 2-hour interpreted tours.

Camel Safari is located at 2725 Rivercliff Road, Bunkerville, Nevada 89007.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Park, San Diego, California

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Park , located 35 miles away from the San Diego Zoo, offers a variety of drive-through safari tour options including a caravan, cart, and behind-the-scenes safari. Just note that you cannot drive your own car through this Wildlife Park.

In addition to the tour options, you can also enjoy experiences like zip lining, adventure courses, or even sleep overnight in the park on a camping adventure. Animals include rhinos, camels, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, gorillas, rhinos, lions, tigers, zebras, and more.

The Safari Park is located at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, California 92027-7017.

Safari West, Santa Rosa, California

Coined the Sonoma Serengeti,  Safari West  is a Wildlife Preserve and African tent camp fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Safari West’s 400 acres are home to nearly 1,000 animals, including African antelopes, primates, and predators, plus a variety of avian life from around the globe. Instead of driving their own car through this safari, guests can sign up for guided tours on retro-fitted safari vehicles.

Safari West also offers unique “glamping” accommodations within the preserve using custom-built tents imported from Botswana, which overlook a view of grazing antelope and giraffes. Twilight dining and wine-paired adventures are available as well as dining at the onsite Savannah Café.

Safari West is located at 3115 Porter Creek Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404. Editor’s note: I was provided with a complimentary tour and overnight stay at Safari West. All opinions are my own.

Wildlife Safari, Winston, Oregon

Wildlife Safari is home to America’s most successful cheetah breeding program, with over 235 Cheetah cubs. It is also home to over 500 animals of many different species including elephants, lions, bison, elk, wildebeest, brown bears, zebra, giraffes, hippos, rhinos, tigers, and more. Wildlife Safari is dedicated to the preservation and education of native and exotic wildlife.

The drive-through safari takes approximately one to one and one-half hours to drive through. The safari takes you past ostrich, Watusi cattle, lions, zebra, hippos, oryx, rhinos, giraffes, and elephants. Then you will pass the land of bears, bison, and elk within the sprawling canyon forests of North America. Lastly, you will journey through the cheetah breeding grounds and past Sumatran Tigers, all from the comfort of your own vehicle.

Wildlife Safari is located at 1790 Safari Rd, Winston, OR 97496.

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Washington

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is a 723-acre wildlife park featuring a tram tour that takes visitors through a 435-acre free-range area. Tram tours run 40 minutes and are led by a naturalist through meadows and forests with herds of Roosevelt elk, moose, bighorn sheep, caribou, and more.

Animal walking tours, keeper talks, Kids’ Treks, and hiking trails are all available. The Zip Wild Deep Forest Challenge offers five exhilarating zipline courses through a tree canopy.

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is located at 11610 Trek Dr E, Eatonville, WA 98328.

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: December 23, 2022

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Briarwood Ranch Safari Park features animals from around the world. On your scenic, four-mile safari through beautiful hills and pasture lands, you will experience animals from six continents.

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Take plenty of time to study their behavior from the safety of your own car.

Be sure to bring your camera. You may want to ride on tractor pulled wagons or enjoy a lazy afternoon in our petting zoo.

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Inside the gallery are some of the animals you will encounter when you visit the park.

The Park is OPEN 10AM-4PM Mon-Sun (Weather Permitting) Please call 865-919-5072 if you need more information.

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9 Unique Animal Experiences In The Midwest

Tim Trudell

• Destinations
• United States

You don’t have to be a kid to enjoy playtime with animals or having an opportunity to get up close and personal with wild animals. From drive-through wildlife parks to sanctuaries, the Midwest offers a variety of animal encounters. My wife Lisa and I look for such attractions when we plan trips. You can usually take your time and soak in the attractions, appreciating the opportunity to visit however you choose. From big cat sanctuaries with tigers, mountain lions, and bobcats, to opportunities to feed birds, penguins, and tortoises, the Midwest’s animal encounters offer a variety of experiences.

Whether you’re a zoo enthusiast, animal lover, or just interested in new and unique experiences, these nine animal encounters are must-sees in the Midwest. These are actual wildlife sanctuaries or experiences, and they’re nothing like you may have watched on so-called reality TV series.

1. Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary, Orr, Minnesota

During the Great Depression, while loggers went off to cut down the day’s trees, black bears — with the scent of the great food that was prepared earlier in the day — would destroy the loggers’ camp and steal the food. Common for the time, loggers would destroy the bears. However, owner Vince Shute grew tired of it over the years, and during the 1970s, decided to feed the bears, keeping them away from the camp. With daily feedings, the bears started gathering at the new area and left the camp alone.

Today, the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary , about two hours northeast of Duluth , continues the tradition of daily feedings. Now, you can actually watch the daily feedings. Open seasonally from May 29 until the first Sunday of September, visitors take a shuttle to an observation deck, where you are several feet above the feeding grounds. Team members scatter food around the feeding zone. The bears are fun to watch, as they play and frolic in the area. You’ll see families join in for the feedings, with cubs climbing trees or wrestling with each other.

2. Oswald’s Bear Ranch, Newberry, Michigan

Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for nearly 30 years, Oswald’s Bear Ranch is one of the largest bear sanctuaries in the United States. Home to about 40 rescued bears — no longer able to live on their own in the wild — Oswald’s sanctuary includes two large habitats and two smaller ones. Open Memorial Day weekend until October 4, visitors freely roam the ranch, visiting any area they like. During the summer, you’re sure to catch bears enjoying some playtime in ponds, as well as roaming around their habitats.

Pro Tip : While it’s designed for visitors to enjoy a walk, Oswald’s Bear Ranch offers a cart for elderly visitors or anyone who may have difficulty walking.

3. Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory And Education Center, Louisburg, Kansas

Home to big cats, such as lions and tigers, for more than 20 years, Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory and Education Center provides sanctuary to animals that have been turned in by their owners or rescued in other ways. Once domestically owned, big cats can’t live on their own in the wild, so Cedar Cove becomes their new forever home. Located about 45 minutes southwest of Kansas City , the Louisburg, Kansas, attraction has also been home to other cats, such as panthers and bobcats. You’ll also find wolves living at Cedar Cove.

Open year-round, public tours are offered on weekends. Sanctuary volunteers lead tours, sharing Cedar Cove’s history and mission. You’ll see almost 30 animals in large facilities, and, just like kittens and cats at home, the big cats love playing with giant balls and toys.

4. Lazy L Safari Park, Cape Girardeau, Missouri

As a walk-through zoo, Lazy L Safari Park features about 50 species of animals, from camels to zebras. As you stroll around the grounds, you’ll be entertained by animals, such as lemurs, who appear to enjoy checking out visitors as much as visitors enjoy checking them out. The park consists of outdoor attractions, a barn, and a petting zoo. One of the most popular exhibits is the parakeet jungle, where about 20 colorful birds may land on you. Bring in birdseed on a stick and they’ll love you like you’re one of their own, pecking away until all the seed is gone. Visitors can also feed other animals with treats that can be purchased around the park. Open weekends April to May and September to December, the park is open daily from June to August. It’s closed from January to March.

Pro Tip : While the park is wheelchair accessible, inclement weather can impact such access.

5. Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, Prairie City, Iowa

A five-mile autoroute takes visitors through bison and elk enclosures at the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge . With about 800 bison, the national mammal travels in herds and can often be seen from designated areas, such as the Overland and Tallgrass Trails, as well as along your drive. Elk roam their area, and you may get to see them butt heads during rut season. The wildlife refuge, located about 30 minutes east of Des Moines , features walking trails where visitors can find several bird species, including owls and a variety of sparrows. During the spring and summer months, you’ll find endangered monarch butterflies along the tallgrass prairie near the visitors center.

6. The Wilds, Cumberland, Ohio

You may find it difficult to believe you’re in Ohio when you visit The Wilds . With animals you’d normally see in Africa, Asia, and Australia, such as camels, wild dogs, and zebras, you may think you’re on safari. With about 10,000 acres, The Wilds is one of the nation’s largest wildlife conservation areas and a must-see for animal encounters. Offering scenic tours that take you into the middle of the animals’ habitats — don’t worry, you’re in an open-air vehicle — you can come face-to-face with giraffes, ostriches, wildebeest, and rhinos. The Wilds is home to more than 20 animal species. You can even reserve overnight stays, where you can sleep under the stars at the Outpost, or stay in yurts, cabins, or at the lodge.

7. Wolf Creek Habitat And Rescue, Brookville, Indiana

Home to more than 30 rescued wolves, Wolf Creek Habitat and Rescue offers up-close animal encounters as educational opportunities. About a dozen of the wolves interact with visitors, are socially adaptable, and showcase how wolves work together and survive in packs. During your visit, you may have a wolf hang out at your side. Each wolf at the center has been rescued from situations where the owners couldn’t care for them. The wolves that don’t interact with visitors have quirks or preferences that are better served away from visitors. Open year-round, the best time to see the wolves at their most active is during cooler weather. Located about halfway between Indianapolis and Cincinnati, Wolf Creek is also home to a few rescued foxes.

8. Tanganyika Wildlife Park, Goddard, Kansas

Tanganyika Wildlife Park, about 20 minutes outside Wichita , grew from the founder’s dream of having his own wildlife park. The former zookeeper at Wichita’s Sedgwick County Zoo opened a bird breeding company, which eventually grew into a 51-acre park with more than 400 animals and 40 exhibits, featuring okapis, monkeys, big cats, wild hogs, and camels. Tanganyika also participates in almost 40 breeding programs with international zoos.

You’ll have fun feeding everything from giraffes and hippos to penguins here. While unlimited personal encounters are an add-on to your visit to Tanganyika Wildlife Park , an all-day pass takes you up-close to animals such as ring-tailed lemurs, giant tortoises, kangaroos, and more.

9. Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park And Wildlife Safari, Ashland, Nebraska

With buffalo roaming the plains and hills, as well as a herd of elk walking the hillside, the Nebraska wildlife safari features a four-mile drive-through attraction about 30 minutes southwest of Omaha. Named one of the best wildlife parks in the United States, the Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari includes pelicans seemingly dancing and strutting their way around a wetlands area while turtles sun themselves on logs and bullfrogs sing. The park includes a raptor exhibit, a bear canyon, and a wolf sanctuary. A petting zoo invites kids of all ages to hang out with chickens and miniature goats. As you drive through the bird meadows, you’ll have sandhill cranes walking up to your vehicle for a close encounter. The park is open from April through October.

Tim and his wife Lisa have been writing their blog The Walking Tourists for eight years. They live in the Midwest and enjoy writing about its attractions. They focus mainly on the Midwest, but enjoy traveling all over. With daughters living in the Seattle area, they also have a fondness for the Pacific Northwest.

Tim is a freelance writer and online content creator. He has authored two books about Omaha attractions and restaurants: "100 Things to Do in Omaha Before You Die" and "Unique Eats and Eateries of Omaha". A third book about Nebraska tourism -- "100 Things to Do in Nebraska Before You Die" -- will be published in April 2020. He writes magazine, newspaper, and online articles as well as offering ghostwriting services. He loves writing.

As a one-time community journalist, his affection for the stories journalists share has never waned. Having been a manager of people, he is intrigued by people's leadership qualities and practices.

Rolling Hills Zoo

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Rolling Hills Zoo - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Safari Zoological Park

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About this activity

There are all different types of zoos across the USA, but Safari Zoological Park is a zoo in Caney that believes that animals belong in their natural habitats - which we LOVE!

The animals at Safari Zoological Park may be in Kansas, and not in their TRUE habitats, but they certainly have a great place to live at this zoo, and you can go in person to see for yourselves!

The whole family gets to experience this animal-tastic attraction via a zoo tour. You don't need to book, you just need to enjoy yourselves!

The zoo tour takes you on a 2 hour visit around the different animals, or you can extend your stay with guided zoo tours too.

If you want something really special, check out the VIP tour. Along with seeing all the amazing creatures that live here, you get to take a feed sack, and even get your photos taken with some adorable animals including hedgehogs, giant tortoise, and yes - even a giant snake and alligator too!

It brings a whole new meaning to taking a quick "SNAP!"

You also get time in the Tree House to play, and enjoy your own picnic too!

The great thing about your admission, is it goes back towards helping the animals, so you get a fun family day out, and the animals continue living this happy life they lead. 

So why not spend your next family day out with tigers, and lions, wolves, big cats, bears, primates, and more....just don't forget your camera!

Activity location

How much does it cost.

$12.95 for 2 hours

$10.95 (Ages 2-12)

Seniors $11.95

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Safari zoological park faq’s, doing our bit.

They are dedicated to supporting these creatures in a way similar to their natural environment

Any top tips when visiting?

Why not have a birthday party at the park! It's a fun way to celebrate with the animals, AND you are supporting them in return!

Teachers corner

They LOVE having students visit! Why not take the students out for a day of biology, nature, and fun!

Does Safari Zoological Park have healthy eating or Vegan options?

It's a good idea to take bottled water with you!

Is Safari Zoological Park fully accessible?

Give them a call if you have any questions about accessibility!

Any additonal information?

If you really love helping the animals, you can be a donor, where the pledges help feed and look after the animals.

What people are saying?

Rate & write a review, top activities near caney.

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Home » Best Safaris Near Me – Drive-through Safaris in the US

Best Safaris Near Me – Drive-through Safaris in the US

With so many finding respite in the presence of wildlife, many travelers may wonder “Where are the best safaris near me?” Across the country, there are opportunities everywhere to see animals—zoos, nature centers, national parks, and wildlife preserves.

While many safaris (or game drives) are self-driven, this post will also share destinations where visitors can enjoy a guided animal safari. All these places will offer something on par with an African safari but are hosted closer to home, right here in the United States.

Safaris in the USA

For those looking for a safari experience close to home, each region hosts a variety of great options. Additionally, each park offers a genuine safari adventure, complete with roaming animals, open lands, and some type of drive-through navigation.

SAFARIS NEAR ME

Select a region or scroll down to view all.

Pacific Southwest Rocky Mountain Midwest Northeast Southeast

Be aware that some safari experiences are for adults only, while others are more for families. It is important to note, that for the safety of the animals, each one has a strict no-pets allowed policy. Sorry, Benji, you must stay in the hotel room.

Safaris Near Me >> Pacific Coastal

Along the country’s Pacific coastline, travelers will find a variety of wildlife experiences—ranging from a safari featuring Africa’s most endangered creatures and a mock hot air balloon safari to a farm offering time with Zodiak bears.

Safari West – Santa Rosa, CA

Located 12 miles north of Santa Rosa, Safari West is a wildlife preserve offering conservation safaris and tented glamping. Over 900 animals from over 90 different species freely roam the 400-acre property—Safari West is about as close as you can get in the U.S. to a traditional African safari .

Climb aboard one of the custom safari vehicles to explore the Sonoma Serengeti where you can see zebras, giraffes, ostriches, antelope, and more. What’s special about Safari West is that the experience can be modified to fit the needs of both adult-only trips and families with children.

For example, if you book a private safari, wine, beer, and appetizers can be added to the tour for an extra cost. For families, the Cozy Cottage has sleeping capabilities for six, with a king bed and a double bunk bed.

To check prices or to make reservations, click here >> Safari West

B. Bryan Preserve – Point Arena, CA

In Point Arena, guests can appreciate a slice of Africa on the Mendocino Coast at B. Bryan Preserve , which focuses on the breeding and conservation of Africa’s most endangered species. These include very specific herds of zebra, antelope, and giraffe. A variety of tour options are available for booking, including self-guided car safaris, VIP tours, and guided tours.

Hand-feeding the giraffes is always a highlight on each visit. If a daytime visit just isn’t enough, the property hosts three cottages and one carriage house—each offering a full kitchen and a private hot tub.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park – San Diego, CA

Sister attraction to the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park allows visitors to choose from a number of different safari opportunities. Home to over 3,600 animals, some unique wildlife excursions are available, such as a Flightline safari and a tethered balloon safari. Take note, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is primarily a walk-through sanctuary. Safari tram tours are another option but are an additional cost.

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park – Eatonville, WA

With a focus on wildlife from America’s Northwest, the Northwest Trek Wildlife Park offers three methods of exploration—walking paths, Wild Drives self-drives, and Keeper Adventure Jeep Tours. Photography safaris are another option.

The park’s free-roaming area comprises 435 acres for herds of elk, bison, moose, caribou, deer, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. There are no opportunities for 1:1 animal interactions, so no feeding or petting is allowed.

Wildlife Safari –  Winston, OR

Open year-round, Wildlife Safari is a fun-filled family attraction where you can observe over 500 animals roaming freely from Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The park is over 600 acres and it takes about one to two hours to complete the 4.5-mile drive.

If you or a loved one has a favorite animal, Encounters allow you the opportunity to spend quality time with one! There are daily meet and greets with tigers, lions, red pandas, elephants, giraffes, bears, hippos, cheetahs, and more.

The Hampton Inn & Suites Roseburg is a comfortable option for nearby lodging.

Olympia Game Farm – Sequim, WA

If your family loves animals, then the Olympia Game Farm welcomes visitors with year-round game drive tours. The farm offers 84 acres of terrain full of wildlife, such as llamas, elk, zebra, deer, yaks, American bison, and Zodiak bears. The tour takes about an hour. Additionally, there are certain times when you can feed animals wheat bread that is supplied by the farm.

Safaris Near Me >> Southwest

If you find yourself in Texas looking for wildlife experiences, you’re in luck. The state offers an abundance of safari opportunities, everything from traditional hunting safaris to family-friendly self-driven tours.

Exotic Resort Zoo – Johnson City, TX

Geared toward children and family vacations, the Exotic Resort Zoo offers two options for a kid-friendly safari—a guided tractor ride or self-drive. If wildlife fuels your family’s travels, then consider a stay on one of the property’s safari cabins that feature two resort-style swimming pools. Overnight stays include complimentary zoo experiences.

Johnson City is also the home to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, Pedernales Falls State Park,  Lyndon B. Johnson’s Boyhood Home, and the Texas White House. Also, there are several nearby wineries to tour—making it the perfect place for an extended weekend or vacation. Pair up the Exotic Resort Zoo with a stay at the Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa for a relaxing retreat.

Cherokee Trace – Jacksonville, TX

This 300-acre animal reserve offers self-drive safaris and the chance to hand-feed dozens of endangered animals and 25 exotic species from around the world. It takes about 1-2 hours to tour Cherokee Trace , however, the admission price permits as many drives as time allows. The majority of the wildlife is hooved animals, mostly deer, zebra, and antelope.

Aggieland Safari – Bryan, TX

Deemed the “ Serengeti of the South ,” Aggieland Safari allows guests to get up close and personal with free-roaming wildlife in over 250 acres of grassy plain pastures. During a self-safari, visitors may interact with local residents including bison, ostrich, zebras, antelope, wildebeest, and more.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch – San Antonio, TX

Experience the essence of an African Safari—Texas style! The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch has over 700 animals and 45 species spread out over 450 acres of Texas Hill Country. The self-drive route lasts six scenic miles and passes over creek beds, rolling hills, and oak tree forests.

The drive takes about 1-2 hours but admission offers multiple trips if time allows. Feed is available for about $5 per bag. Guided safari tours are also available in a custom-built Safari Rover or Safari Shuttle and can be booked online.

Families may enjoy pairing up Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch with The Resort At Schlitterbahn , one of America’s most popular and largest waterparks.

Star S Ranch – Mason, TX

With the goal to create a true Texas safari, the 14,000-acre Star S Ranch is geared toward hunting African wildlife . In fact, the Star S Ranch hosts the largest herds of African wildlife, outside of Africa. With the Star S Ranch private airport, Hunter’s Lodge, and four casitas, this is as close as you’ll get to a traditional game safari, on this side of the world.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center – Glen Rose, TX

Dedicated to conservation, the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center considers the 1,800-acre property more of a sanctuary, rather than just another drive-through safari. The 7.2-mile route allows guests to interact with approximately 1,100 different roaming animals.

While there are a number of African Plains game , opportunities to see giraffes, cheetahs, and rhinos are visitor favorites. There are multiple visiting options available. These include self-driving tours, public guided tours, privately guided tours, twilight tours, photography tours, or behind-the-scenes guided tours.

Out of Africa – Camp Verde, AZ

Going beyond the concept of a basic drive-through park, Out of Africa strives to replicate a real African bush safari. Located in the beautiful Black Hills of Camp Verde, the wildlife preserve offers animal shows, specialty encounters, and organized feeds.

A 30-minute narrated African Bush Safari tour is included in the price and showcases herd-style animals that free roam including water buffalo, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and ostriches. An upgraded, longer tour aboard a SuperMog is another option.

To customize your visit, the preserve has a variety of different opportunities, including bundle packages, Zip lining, VIP tours, and more private experiences.

Bearizona Wildlife Park – Williams, AZ

Drive through the Arizona ponderosa pine forest to enjoy the local North American wildlife from the comfort of your own vehicle. Guests of Bearizona Wildlife Park are welcome to drive the 3-mile route at their own pace.

Featured animals include bears, wolves, bison, elk, and other hooved animals. Admission includes unlimited passes through the route however you cannot leave and return.

Bearizona is a popular stop for motorists as it is one of the best attractions along historic Route 66 . Also, it’s near Grand Canyon National Park , making the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel a perfect accommodation option.

Safaris Near Me >> Rocky Mountains

While most of the Rocky Mountain region is full of rugged landscapes, Nevada’s desert-like climate is the perfect destination for a camel safari.

Camel Safari – Bunkerville, NV

Located about an hour north of Las Vegas, Camel Safari offers two-hour desert safaris by camel, ATV, or by tram. Exotic enough to be seen on “ The Bachelorette ” those that can’t make the trip to Morocco may appreciate the next best thing.

Budget Tip : The Camel Safari – Safari Tram Ride and Zoo Tour from Las Vegas makes it easy and affordable to visit.

Yellowstone Bear World – Rexburg, ID

Idaho’s most popular wildlife attraction is Yellowstone Bear World . This wildlife safari is often visited by travelers from West Yellowstone and Jackson Hole. As you drive your own vehicle through the park, you’ll encounter the very best Rocky Mountain animals including, elk, bison, moose, mule deer, white-tailed deer, mountain goats, and of course, both American black bear and grizzly bear.

One nice characteristic about this particular safari is that large vehicles, such as RVs and motorhomes are welcome to drive the route. While there are more private wildlife experiences offered at an additional cost, general admission also includes the amusement rides, the petting zoo, and as many drives through the park that day as your time allows.

Safaris Near Me >> Midwest

Surprisingly, Ohio hosts some of the most authentic safari experiences that travelers can find in the USA. Just be aware, many parks and outfitters work seasonally.

The Wilds – Cumberland, OH

If you’re an American who will never be able to check an African safari off your bucket list, then this is the travel experience you’ve been looking for. The Wilds is probably one of the most authentic safari experiences available in the USA.

Knowledgeable guides take guests on a two-hour adventure through open habitats to see cheetahs, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and much more. The conservation center also has opportunities to make your safari complete, with overnight yurt stays, 3-course dinners, and specialty off-roading drives to scout for animals. For family vacations, there are cabins and a 12-person lodge is also available.

Other than hand-feeding the animals, most guests agree that the highlight is sitting around the campfire as night falls, watching the watering hole for wildlife enjoying a bottle of wine.

Generally, safaris operate from May through October, however, there are winter tours too. This would be an amazing honeymoon, engagement, or anniversary trip idea because overnight yurt stays are 21+ only.

African Safari Wildlife Park – Clinton, OH

With the warning of “not for those who like pristine vehicles,” the 100-acre African Safari Wildlife Park offers a chance to come face to face with various hoofed animals. Visitors can self-drive the route as many times as they’d like but the journey is expensive, so be sure to bring a heavy wallet.

Unfortunately, the park only provides one cup of animal feed per group (not per individual) and all other attractions or cups of feed are an additional charge. Visitors can’t help but notice the placement of the car vacuums at the exit for an additional fee of $2.00.

Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours – Custer, SD

One reason travelers decide to take a Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour is to give themselves a break from driving and let someone else play tour guide. Many families appreciate the opportunity to sit back, enjoy the ride, and listen to narration from a local guide.

On this 1.5 to 2-hour safari, guests set out in search of buffalo, deer, longhorn sheep, prairie dogs, elk, and pronghorn. Take note, going off-road seems to depend on where the animals are congregating. Therefore, off-roading is not a guarantee. If wildlife is along the main road, that’s where you’ll spend the majority of your time.

Budget Tip: Pair this safari with the Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Tour with Two Meals and a Music Variety Show tour. Stay at the Bavarian Inn , a European-inspired boutique mountain resort.

Eureka Springs Safari Park – Eagle Rock, MO

Offering a 4-mile drive-through safari and a petting zoo, Eureka Springs Safari Park is home to over 500 animals from all over the world, representing 56 species. Visitors can see camels, emus, kangaroos, deer, and buffalo. There are opportunities to hand-feed select animals. When seasonally available, VIP ATV tours are also an option. Eureka Springs Safari Park is the sister park to Branson’s Promised Land Zoo, both of which are faith-based attractions.

Branson’s Promised Land Zoo – Branson, MO

From the comfort of your own vehicle, families can set off on a 45-minute drive-through safari to feed a variety of farm and hooved animals. Many visitors take advantage of the VIP experience to enjoy a tram tour and 1:1 interactions with specialty animals such as baby kangaroos, lemurs, or spider monkeys. Affiliated with Eureka Springs Safari Park, Branson’s Promised Land Zoo is also a faith-based attraction.

After the safari, keep the outdoorsy feel going by staying at the Lodge of the Ozarks which captures the spirit and the beauty of the great outdoors.

Springfield Wild Animal Safari – Strafford, MO

This 5-mile drive drive-through safari allows guests to choose their own adventure, whether by private car, rented safari vehicle, or open bus. Set among 350 acres, visitors will note no cages, only free-roaming wildlife and beautiful scenic views.

Visitors of Springfield Wild Animal Safari love the opportunity to feed and interact with unique wildlife like zebras, emus, and llamas.

Budget Tip : Be sure to stay in the same room as Elvis Presley at the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven .

Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari – Ashland, NE

The 440-acre drive-through Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Park allows visitors to explore several different animal lands. Considered a self-safari, the featured wildlife includes antelope, deer, sandhill cranes, and a large buffalo herd. A short walk takes guests to see the wolves’ woods exhibit. The Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Park is open from April through October.

Lee Richarson Zoo – Garden City, KS

Although technically not a safari, the Lee Richardson Zoo deserves a feature for being the only self-drive zoo in the country. Additionally, this is a great attraction option for those on a tight budget. Admission to the zoo is always free for pedestrians and the self-drive is only $10 per vehicle. Even further, throughout the year, the zoo offers Wild Wednesdays which is the drive-through that is also free for all guests.

Safaris Near Me >> Northeast

The Mid-Atlantic region has some great safari opportunities but all parks operate seasonally. Please be sure to check websites for hours of operation. Some parks offer both walking and driving wildlife encounters.

Keystone Safari – Grove City, PA

See over 100 grazing animals at the Keystone Safari , an interactive, 144-acre drive-through safari park. As all of the animals are considered non-dangerous, visitors are welcome to purchase animal feed to lure the animals right to their car windows. Standout animals include zebras, bison, and emus.

Lake Tobias Wildlife Park – Halifax, PA

Pennsylvania’s rolling hills are a great place to enjoy an American-style safari . Visitors can climb aboard an open-air cruiser with a knowledgeable guide to learn fun facts about wildlife. Many of the 150 acres simulate the animals’ natural habitats.

Each tour lasts about 45 minutes and guests are welcome to purchase special feed to lure the animals to the cruiser. Take note, in April and November guests are allowed to use their own vehicle to enjoy the safari.

Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari – Jackson, NJ

Using your own vehicle, visitors can see over 1,200 animals from six continents including tigers, lions, elephants, rhinos, and giraffes. There are 11 sections to explore, with each different land highlighting its native animals. Almost all animals roam freely with only the predators kept safely behind fences. The 5-mile route traverses 350 acres and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Catoctin Wildlife Preserve – Thurmont, MD

African zebras, camels, and American bison are some of the wildlife you’ll encounter at Catoctin Wildlife Preserve. Guests explore 25 wooded acres in an open-air safari cruiser with opportunities for photography and animal feeding. The safari lasts about 45 minutes to one hour, depending on the wildlife encounters.

Safaris Near Me >> Southeast

Maybe chalk it up to year-round visiting weather, but the Southeast region of the U.S. boasts some of the best safari experiences in the country.

Virginia Safari Park – Natural Bridge, VA

On a mission to allow guests to see animals in a more natural environment, the Virginia Safari Park hosts 180 acres of free-roaming animals. Safaris are self-driven and guests are welcome to stop and feed the animals at their leisure. Located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, this safari experience is consistently ranked as one of the best safari experiences in the country.

Some bonuses of this park include the freedom to drive through as many times as you’d like, a free guidebook , and the ability for guests to ride in the back of pick-up trucks. Pair this experience with the best historical sites in Virginia .

Pine Mountain Safari – Pine Mountain, GA

If you love exotic animals, then a day at Pine Mountain Safari is a walk on the wild side! From your own vehicle, guests can come face-to-face with 75 species of animals across a 250-acre park.

The route is 2.5 miles route is an opportunity to encounter zebras, emus, ostrich, American bison, watusi, and many other animals in a natural habitat. Feeding is permitted within the park with provided feed only.

Lion Country Safari – Loxahatchee, Florida

Offering Florida’s only drive-through safari experience, Lion Country Safari claims to be the first cageless zoo in the United States. The route is divided into seven habitats across 600 acres featuring hundreds of animals. The park also has the largest herds of zebra, rhino, and giraffes in the country. Boasting both a free audio guide and an online guidebook , it is easy to see why Lion Country consistently ranks as one of the best safari experiences in the United States.

Kilimanjaro Safaris (Disney) – Lake Buena Vista, FL

Located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom , Kilimanjaro Safaris simulates an 18-minute expedition through the lush African savannah. Thirty species of African wildlife roam freely through 110 acres, while an expert safari guide points out animals and shares fascinating facts.

The open-air safari is part of the experience at the Animal Kingdom. To check current prices or to make reservations, click here >> Animal Kingdom Lodge .

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Animal Encounters: Get Up-Close and Personal with These Kansas City Creatures

By Lysa Allman-Baldwin

Yes, Kansas City has a wild side. From creatures of the sea to the African plains, Missouri’s woodlands, the Australian Outback, the Kansas prairie and a great deal more, Kansas City offers a wealth of unique and exciting animal encounters that delight and inspire.

Continental Adventures

Situated on a 202-acre nature sanctuary in Swope Park, the Kansas City Zoo is an interactive, entertaining and educational adventure through diverse habitats representing the over 1,000 diverse creatures from Africa, Australia and Asia that thrive here. Attractions include an indoor rain forest, Helzberg Penguin Plaza, Polar Bear Passage, Discovery Barn, Tiger Trail exhibits, and an African Sky Safari, just to name a few.

Beyond Little House on the Prairie

Designed to depict a 1900s turn-of-the-century farm, the 12-acre Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead brings the “charm of the farm” to children and their families living in the big city. A one-room country schoolhouse, working dairy barn, historically accurate Kanza Indian village encampment, push-pedal tractor circle track, mining camp and horse-drawn hayrides are all part of the fun here. Nevertheless, one of the Farmstead’s biggest draws are the more than 200 animals including miniature horses, bison, goats, sheep, turkeys, pigs, donkeys and chickens, among others, some of which visitors can feed during their visit.

Under the Sea

SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium , located at Crown Center , is an amazing underwater world. Visitors here can experience and learn about the lifecycles of more than 5,000 creatures dispersed throughout the aquarium, including through an interactive rock pool experience, as well as in an underwater tunnel where Blacktip Reef Sharks, Cownose Stingrays, Clownfish and other creatures of the sea swim over your head.

Get Back to Nature

Hands-on exhibits emphasizing native Missouri wildlife and local conservation projects, coupled with meandering scenic trails, are the focus at Lakeside Nature Center , one of Missouri’s largest wildlife rehabilitation facilities. And in nearby Blue Springs at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center , visitors can enjoy family-friendly expeditions, conservation area trails, bird watching and other natural habitat oriented activities.

Located in Louisburg, approximately 20 miles south of Kansas City, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary & Education Center is a non-profit organization devoted to the care and preservation of endangered large exotic felines, or “big cats.” Obtained from private breeders, zoos, nature preserves and other entities, the “family” here encompasses grey wolves, leopards, Coatis (members of the raccoon family) and of course lions, in a stress-free environment designed to educate the public on their habitats, behavior and physiology, as well as to the dangers and threats of extinction.  

Zoos & Animal Parks in KC

Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary & Education Center

Phone: (913) 837-5515

Get Directions

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

Region: South KC, Swope Park

Phone: (816) 595-1234

SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium

Region: Crown Center, Crown Center - Cloned, Downtown, Downtown - Cloned

Phone: (816) 471-4FUN (4386)

Jackson County Parks + Rec

Region: East, South KC

Phone: (816) 503-4800

Kemper Outdoor Education Center

Region: East, South KC, Westport

Phone: (816) 229-8980

Yaya's Alpaca Farm

Phone: (816) 213-7555

Kansas City Parks & Recreation

Region: South KC

Phone: (816) 513-7500

• Funfest 2024

6132 Kay Starr Trl., Davis, OK 73030

(580) 369-3383 or

1-800-PET-PARK

Located 90 minutes from North Dallas and 60 minutes from Oklahoma City.

45 minutes North of Windstar Casino on Interstate 35 North,

in Davis, Oklahoma, across from Turner Falls.

Make a right then make first right, one mile down on kay starr Trl.

ADULTS: $ 16.99

CHILD: $ 14.99 (4 THROUGH 11)

SENIOR CITIZENS: $ 14.99

• Hay Bus Rides. Spring & Summer
• Feed the Animals
• Souvenir Shop
• Sweet Shop Cafe
• Business Events
• Birthday Parties

The roads are gravel with turn and bumps here and there. Please use caution and honor the 5 mile or less per hour speed limit so you can stop quickly and let animals move out of the way. Drivers are responsible for their guests and vehicles, and should stay in their cars at all times. We will not be responsible for any damages to your vehicle or any other injuries. Millions of people have entered this park with no problems.

Please drive safe and have fun.

Arbuckle wilderness park.

THE DRIVE-THRU SAFARI IS OPEN

Enjoy feeding the animals from your car!

More than 200 acres in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains with hundreds of exotic animals roaming free!  Also House of Reptiles Petting Zoo and more!

Rides are temporarily under construction.

THE DRIVE THRU SAFARI IT IS OPEN EVERY DAY

(WEATHER PERMITTING)

 Arbuckle Wilderness Park is a fun filled adventure land where wonderful and diverse creatures from over five continents roam in similar habitats to their own. Open year round and set in the beautiful and historic Arbuckle Mountains, Arbuckle Wilderness Park is an exciting adventure for all ages.

Group rates are available for 25 or more.

Call Today!

You’ll also enjoy the great fun park with a walk thru zoological area. At the Safari store you’ll find all kinds of gifts like t-shirts, hats, stuffed animals and much more!

You and your family will take an exiting drive in your car on a safari full of emotion and adventure.

“PARK IS OPEN EVERYDAY”

DRIVE THRU PORTION ONLY

CLOSED ON THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS

Bus Tours available for 20 or more people.

CONTACT US FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY AND BUSINESS PARTIES AT:

6132 KAY STARR TRL., DAVIS, OK 73030

(580) 369-3383 OR

“Visitors should stay inside their cars at all times. We will not be responsible for any damage or any other injuries.”

New Arrivals

Drive thru safari road, reptile exhibit.

Call for group rates, Birthday Parties, Business Events

Open 362 days a year.

While you are in the area…

Come feed the animals.

Discover the

Here you can get face-to-face with a majestic snow leopard, a white rhino, a curious chimpanzee, an ornery aardvark or many of the other 100+ species of wildlife at home in our Zoo. Touching Hearts • Igniting Passion • Saving Wildlife

Explore the Animal

 encounters.

Rolling Hills Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums to meet the highest standards in animal care. We are dedicated to wildlife conservation and educating the next generation on the importance of bio-diversity on our planet. Visiting the Zoo allows you to explore and learn about the world’s most incredible animals and habitats. Here are a few animals you’ll encounter on your amazing day out:

REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS

KID'S COUNTRY

The Wildlife Museum allows you to explore animals and habitats across the African Plains, Arctic Tundra, Rainforests, North America, Middle East and even the Far East. Join this journey around the world to encounter the majesty of the animal kingdom!

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Your adventure starts here! Rolling Hills Zoo is open year round. Here you will find all you need to know to plan your incredible day with us!

ZOO & MUSEUM HOURS

GROUPS VISITS

Upcoming events.

Silent Sundays

Every Sunday in April

In honor of Autism Awareness Month, Silent Sundays is ideal for those with auditory sensory issues!

Toddler Tuesday

1st Tues. of each month + every Tues. in June & July at 10 am. This fun experience is geared toward toddlers, ages 1-5, but all ages welcome!

Summer Camps for Kids

June 4 - July 19

Summer Camps for children ages 4-7 & 8-12, plus we have Junior Zoo Keeper 4-day camp for ages 12-15.

Safari Breakfast • Bamboo Bay

May 4, 2024.

Enjoy breakfast and a sneak peek at the animals starting their day, followed by a Keeper presentation & Q&A! Advanced registration required.

Toddler Tuesday • May 7

May 7, 2024.

Guided Bird-Watching Walking Tour • May

May 11, 2024.

Register now for an early morning bird-watching tour through the Zoo, led by expert bird guides.

Sign Up For Our Emails!

We invite you to, get involved.

As you can see, there is more to Rolling Hills Zoo than meets the eye. We may have over 120 wonderful animals right here - but we are helping thousands more around the world through our conservation and education activities.

Find info for School Groups, Summer Camps, Birthday Parties, Education Programs for groups and more!

Learn how Rolling Hills Zoo is involved in wildlife conservation around the world.

We have volunteer opportunities for all ages, including our Zoo Teen Program and Internships.

Create a lasting legacy by making a donation to Rolling Hills Zoo.

Help us care for the animals of Rolling Hills Zoo through an Animal Adoption.

Membership has many benefits!  Become a Member of Rolling Hills Zoo today! 

Accredited by the:

A Big Thank You to Our Annual Sponsors!

Thank You to Our Event Sponsors!

Donation request

To request a donation for your fundraiser, ALL donation requests must be made by filling out our Donation Request Form.

Leave us a message below and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you!

HOURS & INFO

785-827-9488

Open 7 days a week Peak-Season Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Rolling Hills Zoo 625 N. Hedville Road  Salina, KS 67401

Adults $15 Seniors (65+) $14 Children (3-12) $9 Children (2 & Under) FREE Includes Museum & Zoo Admission

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9:30AM - Last Entry @ 4:00PM

• About/Location
• Hours & Pricing
• Drive-Thru Safari Tours
• Meet the Animals
• Coffee Corner ☕️
• Cabin Rentals

Welcome to Beavers Bend Self Drive-Thru Safari Park

Nestled on 90 acres in the heart of Hochatown, OK near Hochatown Saloon. Beavers Bend Drive-Thru Safari Park is home to a variety of animals like Rhino, Bison, Zebra, Ostrich, Kudu, Exotic Antelope, Lemurs, Kangaroos, Elk and counting. The safari park roadway is approximately 1.8 miles long meandering through stunning natural terrain with towering trees and water streams making it the perfect backdrop to observe our magnificent animals.

Additionally, make sure to visit our charming coffee shop within the gift shop. It's the perfect opportunity to recharge and reflect on the unforgettable experiences you've shared with your family.

Beavers Bend Safari Park is open year round, park hours vary based on seasonal and holiday demands.

HOURS Daily; 9:30am-5:00pm; Last entry at 4:00pm

Turn off Hwy 259 toward the Hochatown Saloon onto Old Hochatown Rd.

What guests are saying

This drive through safari park is a great experience for all ages! A well manicured road winds through the wooded animal exhibits, making it very easy to enjoy. The layout is optimal to spot all the variety of animals with each turn. We especially enjoyed the friendly staff and getting to see their newest baby bison that was born earlier that day! Can’t wait to visit again!

The service was amazing. The owners and employees were all extremely friendly, welcoming, and helpful. The animals were all adorable and it was so much fun. You could see animals up close and personal. It’s beautifully build, and the animals look so happy. VERY much worth the money. It’s well maintained and taken care of. We will definitely be coming back!

Wow!! What a really fun park. Took my kids (all under the age of 10) and had the best time. The safari park is really well laid out so that you can see the animals without spending all your time searching for them. The park was clean and looked professionally done, from the moment you entered the parking lot. You can tell the animals are well taken care of and I appreciated that we saw animals we never knew existed.

• © 2024, Beavers Bend Safari Park
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• Things to Do
• Park Hours & Directions
• Tickets and Passes
• Animal Encounters
• FAQs & Animal Gallery
• Special Events
• Zootube & Conservation
• Park Information
• Wild Animal Safari – Pine Mountain, Georgia
• Wild Animal Safari – Strafford/Springfield, Missouri
• Aggieland Safari, Bryan-College Station, Texas
• Investor Relations
• About Us & Employment

FAQs (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS) Wild Animal Safari – Strafford™

Are you ready to meet new animal friends? Our team of Zookeepers and Staff is happy to welcome you and your party to the park. Below is a list of FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) that may be valuable to ensuring a great experience. Enjoy the Wild Animal Safari – Strafford™!

Park Information Details

• 20 Minutes NE of Springfield, MO • 50 Minutes NE of Branson, MO • 2 Hours S of Jefferson City, MO • 2 ¾ Hours S of Kansas City, MO • 3 Hours SW of St. Louis, MO • 3 ½ Hours SE of Topeka, KS • 3 ¾ Hours NW of Jonesboro, AR

Wild Animal Safari – Strafford ™ is open daily 7 days a week at 10:00 AM. We have extended hours several weekends such as Spring Break, various holidays, and Summer months. Please check the park operating hours calendar when planning your visit. All Drive-Thru Safari guests must enter the park at least 1 hour prior to closing.  The park is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.

See the park operating calendar for daily park hours.

Zero. Parking is FREE.

• The last car is admitted into the Drive-Thru Safari one hour prior to closing. It is strongly recommended that you arrive at the park earlier in the day, so you have enough time to see everything your party wants to see. All guests must leave the park at closing.  We recommend 2-3 hours to enjoy the whole park.

Refunds will not be provided under any circumstance for failure to allow enough time to complete both sections of the park before closing time.

You may bring your wheelchair. See the ADA Park Information .

Some areas of the Walkabout Adventure Zoo™ are represented by gravel and natural dirt pathways like you would experience in the wild.

Yes. Wild Animal Safari – Strafford™ has a full indoor air-conditioned restaurant serving the highest quality foods including 100% Sirloin Hamburgers, Chicken Tenderloins, 100% Beef Nathan’s Hot Dogs, Nacho Platters, Grilled Chicken Sandwiches, and Fresh-made Pizza with par-baked crust. We serve Coca Cola products, giant New York Style Pretzels, Churros, and hand-dipped ice cream.

Permitted Items

No. Only feed sold on-site may be used for feeding experiences. Failure to adhere to this rule will result in immediate eviction from the park with no refund. Please understand that we have a strict feeding policy to protect the health and safety of our animal residents. We thank you for following our feeding policy.

Smoking and vaping are NOT permitted on the park grounds or inside any building.  We do have designated smoking areas in and/or near the parking lot.

You may bring your own food and drinks to consume in the parking lot or designated picnic areas at the park outside the main building. Outside food cannot be brought into the Walkabout Adventure Zoo™ areas.  Private parties and groups may arrange to bring their own food on a situational basis.  If you, or a member of your group, have specific allergy concerns please call and speak to a customer service representative before your visit.

Yes. Wagons and/or strollers may also be available to rent at our ticket counter, subject to availability.

Yes, however, certain policies have been implemented to ensure the safety of our animals and your service animal. Please see the Service Animal policy .

Weather Protocols

The park will remain open, rain or shine, in most circumstances. In cases of severe weather, the park may elect to close all or portions of the park for the safety of our guests and animals. If the park closes early due to severe weather, snow, or ice, you will receive a raincheck to return another day.

Updates regarding a rare park closure are announced on our Facebook page and our website.

No, ticket sales are final. If the park closes early due to severe weather, snow or ice, you will receive a raincheck to return another day.

Tickets, Annual Passes, & Memberships

Tickets are valid for one year from the purchase date.  If you purchased your ticket(s) for a select day and are unable to attend, your ticket(s) will still be valid for use for one year.

Tickets may be presented at the gate either on printed paper or on a smartphone.

No. Our staff can look up your purchase on-site via the last name of the purchaser or by the confirmation number.

No, all ticket sales are final.

Annual Passes / Memberships are now sold both online and at the park.

Annual Passes / Memberships are for individual use only. Each member of the family who wishes to visit the park multiple times should purchase an Annual Pass / Membership.

No, each person must have their own Annual Pass / Membership.

Drive-Thru Safari

Our animals are free-range throughout the 250+ acres of pasture and woods. In most cases, animals will come near the cars for feed. However, these animals ARE NOT PETS, and their behavior is unpredictable.  In other words, they will follow their instincts. We cannot guarantee that all animals will come to the road during every visit. The joy of our Drive-Thru Wild Animal Safari™ is that your experience will be different each time you visit the park.

• Yes, guests can enjoy the Drive-Thru Safari in their own vehicles. • Tour Buses - Guests may opt to ride in one of the provided Tour Buses, which are operating at full capacity. Tour Buses are first come, first served and depart once an hour, or once every 30 minutes depending on the park attendance levels. There is no charge to ride the Tour Buses, however they run seasonally, so please check our park operating calendar when planning your visit.

Only fully enclosed vehicles are permitted. Large RVs and buses are not permitted without prior authorization by the management team. The following vehicles are not allowed under any circumstance:  Motorcycles  Convertibles  Open Top Jeeps  Vehicles without Doors  Tow behind trailers

No, riding in the bed of a pick-up truck or in the trunk of a car is not permitted. Hanging out of windows or sunroofs is also not allowed.

The last car is admitted into the Drive-Thru Safari is one hour prior to park closing. It is strongly recommended that all guests arrive earlier to allow enough time to complete the Drive-Thru and Walkabout Adventure Zoo™. All guests must leave the park at the posted closing times. We recommend 3-4 hours to enjoy the whole park.

It can take anywhere from 1 hour to 2 hours, depending on the number of guests in the Drive-Thru, your speed and animal feeding preferences.

Yes. You may experience the Drive-Thru Safari as many times as you would like during your visit! Many guests enjoy the Drive-Thru first, then visit the Walkabout Adventure Zoo™, eat lunch while enjoying the nature and amenities of the park, and then return to the Drive-Thru Safari again before leaving for the day.

Animals are typically most active in the morning hours of 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, then again in the late afternoon from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Animals are typically less hungry in the afternoon. Every visit is a different experience.

• Yes, the Drive-Thru Wild Animal Safari™ feed is available for purchase at the Ticket Booth and Gift Shop upon arrival. ONLY THE PROVIDED FOOD MAY BE FED TO THE ANIMALS. PLEASE DO NOT BRING YOUR OWN FEED. • All animals in the pastures that the roads travel through can be fed. There are other pastures and paddocks visible from the roads that do not allow public access. Guests ARE NOT permitted to exit their vehicles to feed these animals. • We recommend throwing the park-provided animal feed to the ground in front of the animal in the Drive-Thru Safari. This will entice the animals to come close to your vehicle. DO NOT hand feed the zebras, EMUs, or the ostrich. These species may accidentally bite thinking your fingers are food. • Feeding animals is optional and at your own risk.

No, these animals are not pets. For the safety of our guests, direct contact is prohibited.

No. As stated above, we cannot guarantee that all the animals will be on the road at all times of the day.  You can return to the Drive-Thru Safari as many times as you would like (before one hour prior to park closing) to finish your feed!

Walkabout Adventure Zoo TM

Our park has a large and diverse variety of animals on exhibit for you to enjoy. We also have various off-exhibit animals that may make brief appearances when appropriate. To promote exceptional animal husbandry and welfare, there may be times when certain animals are not on display.

The Walkabout Adventure Zoo™ takes a minimum of one hour to complete. However, it often takes longer depending on your interests, feeding experience participation, and time spent reading the provided information about the individual animals. It all depends on the preferences of your party and where they would like to go.

Guests may enter the Walkabout Adventure Zoo™ any time from park opening to park closing. However, all guests must exit the park by park closing. Refunds will not be provided for failure to allocate enough time to complete both sections of the park.

• Participating in Animal Feeding Experiences is elective and at your own risk. • You may feed park-provided lettuce to the giraffes and Sulcata tortoises. Lettuce fed to the tortoises should be placed on the ground in front of them in lieu of feeding them by hand. Tortoises may accidentally snap little fingers if you get too close. Lettuce is available for purchase in the Gift Shop or at the ticket counter. • You may feed the barnyard/farmyard animals small feed pellets from your hand provided that your hand is flat. Feed is available for purchase in the Gift Shop, at the ticket counter, or at coin-operated feeders in the Walkabout Adventure Zoo™. • Feeding animals is at your own risk. • No other animals in the park may be fed under any circumstances. The Walkabout Adventure Zoo™ animals are not to be fed any feed from the Drive-Thru Safari.

Groups, Company Outings, and Schools Field Trips

Drive-Through Safari Gallery

• Walkabout Gallery

We have more safari park information posted throughout the site. As always, if you have more questions we are here to help. Contact us to learn more about our animal park.

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Pine mountain safari.

• Home & About Us
• Plan Your Visit
• Drive-through Gallery

Springfield Safari

• Ticket and Pricing

Aggieland Safari

GA (706) 663-8744 1300 Oak Grove Rd Pine Mountain, GA 31822 [email protected]

MO (417) 859-5300 124 Jungle Rd Strafford, MO 65757 [email protected]

TX (979) 599-5440 18075 FM 974 Bryan, TX 77808 [email protected]

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Adventure Awaits At This Drive-Thru Safari Park In Missouri

Beth Price-Williams

A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.

More by this Author

Dreaming of embarking on a safari where you’ll see exotic animals up-close? Well, pile the whole family into the car and set off for this drive-thru safari park in Missouri. Drive through the park, where residents just might come up to your rolled down window to say hello. But, that’s only one part of the adventure on which you’re about to embark.

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Have you ever driven through this safari park in Missouri? Join the conversation in the comments! And, set off on another drive-thru safari at The Wild Animal Safari. Click here to read more.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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