Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo | Gulf Shores

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, located in Gulf Shores, is one of the area’s most beloved family attractions and a unique part of Alabama’s coastal tourism identity. Often referred to as the “Little Zoo That Could” after gaining national attention during and after Hurricane Ivan in 2004, the zoo has become known not only for its animals but also for its resilience and dedication to education, conservation, and community engagement.

History:

The zoo first opened in 1989 as the Zooland Animal Park, created by Joey Ward Sr. as a small family-friendly attraction.

In 1991, it officially became the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, operated by the non-profit Alabama Gulf Coast Zoological Society.

The zoo earned national recognition in 2006 with the Animal Planet documentary series The Little Zoo That Could, which chronicled its repeated evacuations and struggles with hurricanes. The story highlighted the extraordinary effort of staff and volunteers who cared for animals during times of crisis.

In 2020, the zoo moved to a new, larger location inland to protect against hurricane flooding, with updated habitats and facilities.

Layout and Features:
The modern zoo sits on 25 acres of landscaped grounds, designed to provide both animal comfort and visitor enjoyment.

Habitats: Spacious, naturalistic enclosures for more than 300 animals, including mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Interactive Areas: Walk-through aviaries, petting areas, and opportunities to engage with certain animals under staff supervision.

Educational Facilities: Spaces for school groups, wildlife talks, and conservation programming.

Gardens and Walking Paths: Shady, family-friendly routes designed for a relaxed visit.

Animal Highlights:

Big Cats: Lions, tigers, and leopards, housed in secure and enriched habitats.

Primates: Several species of monkeys, lemurs, and other primates.

Reptiles: Alligators, snakes, and tortoises that reflect the Gulf Coast environment.

Birds: Parrots, peacocks, and tropical birds, many housed in large aviaries.

Farm and Exotic Animals: Kangaroos, camels, and goats, offering interactive encounters for children.

Special Experiences:

Animal Encounters: Up-close, guided experiences with animals such as lemurs, kangaroos, or sloths. These are especially popular with families and provide safe, supervised contact.

Seasonal Events: The zoo hosts themed events, camps, and conservation days throughout the year.

Keeper Talks and Demonstrations: Educational sessions that highlight animal behavior and care.

Cultural and Community Role:
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has become more than an attraction-it’s a symbol of resilience for Gulf Shores. Its survival and growth despite repeated hurricane threats embody the spirit of the community. It also serves as an educational resource for schools and visitors, raising awareness about wildlife and conservation.

Visitor Experience:

The zoo is designed for families, with a manageable size that makes it easy to explore in a few hours without feeling rushed.

Shaded areas, picnic spots, and a café make it a comfortable place even in summer heat.

The newer inland site provides improved parking, accessibility, and storm safety compared to its original location near the beach.

Visitor Tips:

Plan to spend 2–3 hours at the zoo to see all exhibits and enjoy encounters.

Arrive early in the day during summer months to avoid heat and catch animals when they are most active.

Book animal encounters in advance, as they are limited and popular.

Bring sunscreen and water, though shaded paths make walking easier.

Combine with a trip to nearby Gulf Shores beaches or Gulf State Park for a full day of activities.

Overall Character:
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is a blend of wildlife conservation, family entertainment, and local resilience. It may not be as large as metropolitan zoos, but its intimacy, hands-on experiences, and heartwarming history give it a special charm. For visitors to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, it offers a chance to step away from the beach and connect with the wider natural world of the Gulf Coast.