Baby Tortoises Nibbling Fresh Salad Greens, Soft Sunlight Highlighting Textured Shells, Warm Earthy Substrate
Plan Your Visit

Visit The Herpetarium

Experience Florida's most fascinating reptiles and exotic animals up close. Our educational center in Manatee County welcomes visitors of all ages!

Essential Info

Hours & Location

Operating Hours

Monday - Friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

24/7 Wildlife Emergency Rescue: (941) 666-3755

Location

Manatee County, Florida

Serving Bradenton, Sarasota, and surrounding areas

Get Directions
What to Expect

Your Visit Experience

Here's what awaits you when you visit The Herpetarium

See Amazing Animals

Get up close with snakes, lizards, turtles, exotic birds, and many more fascinating creatures from around the world and right here in Florida.

Hands-On Interaction

Touch and hold select animals under expert supervision. Create memories and conquer fears in a safe, controlled environment.

Learn from Experts

Our passionate staff shares fascinating facts, rescue stories, and conservation tips. Ask questions — we love to teach!

Photo Opportunities

Capture unforgettable moments! Take photos with our animal ambassadors and share your experience with friends and family.

Family-Friendly Fun

Perfect for all ages! Kids love our interactive experiences, and adults discover new appreciation for wildlife.

Support Rescue Work

Your visit directly supports our rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Every guest helps us save more animals!

Before You Go

Visitor Guidelines

To ensure the best experience for you and the safety of our animals, please review these guidelines before your visit.

Please Do

  • Book your visit in advance when possible
  • Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes
  • Ask before touching any animal
  • Use hand sanitizer before and after animal contact
  • Take photos (no flash photography, please)
  • Ask questions — we love to educate!

Please Don't

  • Feed the animals (unless staff provides food)
  • Tap on enclosures or startle animals
  • Pick up animals without permission
  • Bring outside pets to our facility
Green chameleon in the terrarium. Exotic pet animal.
Gentle hands holding two freshly hatched sea turtles, ready for release on the sandy beach as part of a marine conservation project.
Colorful flying Golden Conure parrot isolated on white background with clipping path.
Baby turtle hatching in wildlife conservation area prior to release

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Visit?

Schedule your visit today and discover the amazing world of reptiles and exotic animals. We can't wait to meet you!

Open 7 Days

9AM - 5PM

Manatee County

Florida

All Ages

Welcome!