About Natural Bridge Zoo
Elephant rides & other experiences. Privately-owned zoo with interactive experiences including elephant rides, feedings & a petting zoo.
💬 What Parents Say
- Visit in the afternoon or early morning when you're more likely to see animals active, as reviewers noted many animals were sleeping during late afternoon visits. However, plan for a shorter visit (1-2 hours) since this is a small roadside zoo with limited animals compared to larger facilities.
- The elephant rides are a popular attraction but not always available, and the elephant's wellbeing has been a concern for some visitors. Confirm elephant ride availability before visiting if that's a primary reason for your trip.
- Take advantage of interactive experiences like hand-feeding giraffes and the animal scavenger hunt to engage children. Staff are friendly and may allow hands-on experiences like holding snakes, which can make the visit memorable for kids.
- Come with realistic expectations about zoo size and amenities—this is a small roadside zoo, not a major facility. The compact layout means animals are within minimal walking distance of each other, making it ideal for young children who prefer shorter walks between exhibits.
- If you're passing through the area as a quick stop rather than a dedicated day trip, this zoo works well for families with young kids seeking a brief, close-up animal encounter. It's better suited as a 1-2 hour detour than a full-day destination.
Hours
| Monday | 10 AM–5 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Saturday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Sunday | 10 AM–5 PM |
Natural Bridge Zoo
📍 5784 S Lee Hwy, Natural Bridge, VA 24578Type
Zoo
Established
1972
Mission
Propagation and rearing of threatened or endangered species
Ownership
Privately owned, independent
Best For
All ages
More Family Fun Nearby
Within 25 miles · 1 venue across 1 category