A lion's roar is a captivating sound, especially when it rumbles from just a few feet away. And there's no better place to experience this than at the famed Lion Country Safari, located in Florida's sunny Palm Beach County. This immersive safari park, the first cageless zoo in the country, provides an opportunity to embark on a thrilling journey and interact with wildlife from all over the world, all from the comfort of your car. On a recent trip, Scarlett, our friend Mimi (Ronda), her granddaughter Siena, and I decided to soak up the adventure and soak in the sun as we toured this incredible haven of wildlife.
As we entered the park bright and early, our excitement was palpable. The sweet smell of adventure wafted through the air, carried on the breeze that rustled through the trees, and punctuated by the distant sounds of the wildlife. With a car full of snacks and two eager three-year-olds ready to explore, we were set for an extraordinary day.
Feeding time at Lion Country Safari is a special treat, and arriving early ensured we witnessed this spectacle. Even amidst the sizzling heat of July, the animals were congregated near the roads, offering an up-close look at their mealtime routines. Siena had set her heart on seeing the giraffes, and Scarlett was enamored with the idea of seeing the lions. Personally, I was looking forward to the giraffes, too, eager to see their graceful strides and gentle natures.
After the extensive drive-through safari, we switched gears to the walk-through part of the park. A vibrant spectacle awaited us as we encountered flamingos' vivid hues, the joyful chorus of exotic birds, and an array of fascinating fish. Refreshing slushies cooled us off as the children's laughter rang out, punctuated by the occasional toddler meltdown – an unavoidable part of any family outing.
Among the many attractions, the merry-go-round was a clear favorite, with the children's delight visible in their beaming faces. The water park was a welcome respite from the blazing sun, and Mimi and I couldn't resist joining in the fun. Amid a flurry of giggles and the constant reapplication of sunscreen, we realized the wisdom of having a stroller for our little adventurers. The heat had them tuckered out, demanding occasional carrying.
As the day wound down, we swapped stories over McDonald's to-go, a fitting end to our epic adventure. While one of the little ones drifted off to sleep, recounting tales of her favorite animals, Mimi got her well-deserved nap. My mini-me, Scarlett, was not as keen on napping, preferring instead to snuggle and share her impressions of the day's encounters.
Mimi, a seasoned visitor to the park, got a first-time experience – she'd never seen a lion so close before. Their majestic presence and the range of noises they made was indeed a highlight. The zebras, too, were a revelation for me. Watching them roam freely, enjoying their natural habitat, was an uplifting experience.
Every moment at Lion Country Safari was filled with wonder and learning. The park is a gem that offers a unique blend of fun and education. It was a day of making cherished memories, exploring the magnificent world of wildlife, and relishing the joy of sharing these moments with loved ones. We can't wait for our next adventure!
