WILD ANIMAL SAFARI - STRAFFORD, MISSOURI
Up Close and Very Personal!
Why You Should Pick a Drive-Thru Wild Animal Safari
On a warm summer day, a drive-thru is the way to go to a zoo without the agony of heat, swollen ankles and high-priced drinks. In Winter months, Strafford, Missouri Wild Animal Safari Park is open but not if it's below 32 degrees or during inclement weather, but if you need nature on a calmer Winter day, consider Strafford's Wild Animal Safari Park located conveniently off I-44. It is family friendly and if you don't enjoy animals per se, your children will love you for it!
There is nothing like being greeted in the parking lot by a peacock and seeing tigers basking in the sun. Early evening hours is the best time to go through the park for two reasons:
- Great photography experience!
- The animals are stirring due to the cooler temperature and they willingly come to the vehicle to investigate whether or not you brought them a gift - food!
What Does it Cost?
Strafford Wild Animal Safari Park no longer charges by the carload. It is $16.95 per person for ages 12 to adult, $12.95 for ages 3-12 and ages 2 and under are free.
A bag of food can be purchased for under $3.00 and for a family of four, about $12.00 in cost for the food to feed the animals.
A family of four can have a really great time for a comparable rate of going to a box office movie with popcorn.
Group rates are also available.
Wildlife Categories
The zebras and the zedonks (cross between a zebra and a donkey) are a family favorite. Their facial expressions and dental revealing smiles are priceless.
Camels, emus, rams, sheep, deer are more favorites. The Buffaloes are also a treat but caution is also warranted and patrons should obey park rules and stay in their vehicles at all times.
Wolves, bears, white tigers, black cats, are appropriately fenced making the photos appear more zoo-like.
Alpacas, llamas, elk, and Canadian geese are also numerous throughout the five-mile drive. If you want to photograph longer or stay longer in a certain area, there are places to pull over so others can pass and continue their safari ride.
Amenities
While the park does offer food, you may want to eat before you go and feel free to take a drink along. There is a boardwalk for strolling as well.
I'd recommend not taking food in the vehicle. It may confuse the animals for the food you took for them.
While the gift shop does offer "slobber towel" souvenirs, feel free to take some large towels from home if you favor zebras, maybe even a dry t-shirt.
It takes about the same time to go through the park as it does to watch a movie but it is educational, entertaining, exciting and at times relaxing. I think you will find this an enjoyable experience.
