Today, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Sanford, Florida, proudly opened its newly renovated Wellness Garden, an initiative sponsored by AdventHealth. This garden is designed to enhance the connection between plants, health, and well-being, providing a peaceful retreat for visitors. A ceremonial ribbon-cutting marked the occasion, where CEO Richard E. Glover Jr. emphasized the importance of the partnership with AdventHealth and the garden’s role in promoting health and learning.
The Wellness Garden is a key feature of the “Wild About Wellness” partnership with AdventHealth, which also supports the zoo’s playground and Spiny Garden. Jeff Villanueva, CEO of AdventHealth Altamonte Springs, highlighted the garden’s significance in encouraging health awareness. Visitors can explore a wide variety of culinary and medicinal plants and learn about both traditional and modern uses of herbs and botanicals.
Explore the Zoo and Gardens
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is not just a haven for plant lovers; it also features over 350 animals representing global habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and deserts. Must-see exhibits include the Florida Black Bear Exhibit, the Florida Alligator Exhibit, and the fascinating Herpetarium, which showcases snakes, iguanas, and frogs. For those seeking adventure, the Rhino Encounter and Seminole Aerial Adventures zip-lining experience are not to be missed!
This family-friendly destination also offers interactive exhibits and activities for children, making it a perfect spot for a day out. The Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground provides a fun splash pad for kids, while couples can enjoy romantic walks through the botanical gardens. The zoo is designed to be stroller-friendly, allowing families with young children to navigate comfortably. Solo visitors can immerse themselves in the flora and fauna with accessible facilities for those with disabilities.
Education and Conservation
The Wellness Garden not only promotes relaxation and mindfulness but also serves as an educational platform. Guests are encouraged to join monthly botanical garden tours, typically held on the first Saturday or Sunday of each month, led by the zoo’s Horticulture technicians. The zoo also hosts various educational programs, including summer camps and a Junior Zoo Keeper program, fostering a love for wildlife and conservation among the younger generation.
As a non-profit organization, the Central Florida Zoo is dedicated to conservation efforts and strives to provide enriched living conditions for its animals. Modern zoo management has evolved, focusing on both the physical and psychological well-being of the animals. While some debate the ethics of animal captivity, many modern zoos, including this one, aim to create environments that mimic natural habitats, incorporating elements that encourage natural behaviors and reduce stress.
For visitors looking to learn more about wildlife conservation and to experience the beauty of Florida’s diverse ecology, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is an ideal destination. From engaging animal encounters at the Discovery Center to educational special events like the Lantern Festival, there’s something for everyone. So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to check out this gem in Sanford!
For more information about the zoo and its offerings, visit the Sanford Herald or explore additional details on Element Vacation Homes.