Explore the Brevard Zoo & Linear Park Trail
Brevard Zoo is one of Central Florida’s true treasures—just a short drive from Cocoa Beach. Consistently rated among the top small zoos in the country, it’s home to over 900 animals from around the world. What makes this zoo special is how interactive it is: you can hand-feed giraffes, kayak past rhinos, zip-line over the treetops, or get close to colorful birds in the aviary. Families especially love the wide variety of hands-on experiences, making it an unforgettable day for both kids and adults.
Right next to the zoo, you’ll find the Brevard Zoo Linear Park Trail—a beautiful escape into Florida’s natural landscapes. This 3-mile boardwalk and paved trail winds through oak hammocks and wetlands, offering a peaceful place to walk, jog, or bike. The wide pathway makes it easy for strollers or casual rides, and along the way you might spot herons, turtles, or even an alligator sunning near the water. It’s free to access, with entrances at the zoo and nearby trailheads.
Whether you’re looking for a fun family adventure or a quiet place to enjoy nature, the Brevard Zoo and its Linear Park Trail are two of the area’s must-visit attractions—perfect for pairing with your beach getaway.
...AND YES IT'S TRUE... The Brevard Zoo is the only zoo in the U.S. where you can paddle right past giraffes, rhinos, lemurs, and more. Their kayaking offerings include:
Below is a picture of kayking through the zoo and of Linear Park (next door to the zoo - and free!)
Brevard Zoo is one of Central Florida’s true treasures—just a short drive from Cocoa Beach. Consistently rated among the top small zoos in the country, it’s home to over 900 animals from around the world. What makes this zoo special is how interactive it is: you can hand-feed giraffes, kayak past rhinos, zip-line over the treetops, or get close to colorful birds in the aviary. Families especially love the wide variety of hands-on experiences, making it an unforgettable day for both kids and adults.
Right next to the zoo, you’ll find the Brevard Zoo Linear Park Trail—a beautiful escape into Florida’s natural landscapes. This 3-mile boardwalk and paved trail winds through oak hammocks and wetlands, offering a peaceful place to walk, jog, or bike. The wide pathway makes it easy for strollers or casual rides, and along the way you might spot herons, turtles, or even an alligator sunning near the water. It’s free to access, with entrances at the zoo and nearby trailheads.
Whether you’re looking for a fun family adventure or a quiet place to enjoy nature, the Brevard Zoo and its Linear Park Trail are two of the area’s must-visit attractions—perfect for pairing with your beach getaway.
...AND YES IT'S TRUE... The Brevard Zoo is the only zoo in the U.S. where you can paddle right past giraffes, rhinos, lemurs, and more. Their kayaking offerings include:
- Guided Kayak Tours (Expedition Africa): Glide through the zoo’s Africa section along the Nyami Nyami River. You’ll get a “hoof‑level view” of exotic animals like giraffes, zebras, impalas, and rhinos. Tours run daily from around 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM (weather permitting). Tickets are $12.95 per person, separate from zoo admission. (brevardzoo.org)
- Self-Guided Wetlands Kayaks: Paddle through the zoo’s restored wetlands section, Wild Florida, at your own pace. These are less structured and cost $6 per person. (brevardzoo.org)
Below is a picture of kayking through the zoo and of Linear Park (next door to the zoo - and free!)