Petting Zoos Open
The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
4.8(2,881)4.8 out of 5 stars, 2881 reviews Jacksonville, FL
About The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity for families to see and learn about exotic animals in a caring environment. The sanctuary focuses on animal welfare and education, providing visitors with up-close experiences that are both exciting and informative.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families looking for educational outingsAnimal lovers wanting to support wildlife conservationVisitors to Jacksonville seeking unique local attractionsToddlers (3 years old) enjoyed seeing large cats and other animalsChildren and families of all ages found the experience educational and fun
Why families love it
- Knowledgeable and friendly staff who provide information about the animals
- Well-maintained enclosures that ensure animal comfort
- Self-guided tours allowing flexibility in exploration
- Educational experiences that engage children and adults alike
- Wheelchair accessibility for all areas of the sanctuary
- Diverse range of animals including tigers, lions, and bears
Insider tips
- Plan to arrive early to make the most of your visit
- Bring a camera for capturing memories as there are many photo opportunities
- Check for special events like night feedings which may require advance booking
Good to know before you go
- Visiting during peak hours when the sanctuary might be crowded
- Late arrivals as some visitors reported being allowed in late but it may limit the experience
- Some visitors found the night feeding experience to be pricey
- Limited production experience compared to larger zoos
- Crowds
- Can get busy during weekends and special events, so visiting during weekdays might be preferable
- Value
- The night feeding experience is noted to be a bit pricey, but funds support the sanctuary's mission. General admission prices were not specified, but the value is perceived as high due to the educational aspect and animal welfare focus.
- Food
- Food and drink rules were not specifically mentioned, but there is a snack cart available
- Accessibility
- Fully wheelchair accessible, accommodating visitors with mobility challenges
- Safety
- Staff presence throughout the sanctuary to ensure visitor safety and provide information
What parents say
"I really enjoyed my visit to this sanctuary. The enclosures are beautifully equipped nice size and the staff really know their stuff. There was an older woman just walking around with a volunteer t-shirt on giving us all kinds of information about the animals It was a wonderful time. I was able to capture some great videos I hope you're able to take the time to watch and go visit. All the money from visitors goes to helping the sanctuary continue to run and supply for the animals that are there. I will be returning with my husband next time. I'd also like to add it as absolutely wheelchair fri"
a month ago
"On my trip to Jacksonville last week this was easily one of the most enjoyable activities. Nice to see these immense but still Lil' Kitties. It is a self guided tour but there were several volunteers around who were more than happy to inform us about the cats an their histories. Glad to see such a nice place for these amazing creatures."
a month ago
"Went to the night feeding and it was a little pricey, but I know it goes to a good cause. I would 100% recommend this place to anyone living in Jacksonville or visiting. Never seen so many tigers. From a production experience not as good of an experience as the Jacksonville Zoo, but all the volunteers are passionate about their work and the facilities exceeded my expectations."
3 weeks ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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