News

Nutrition is an important aspect of again, we at Westminster Communities of Florida believe in this. To provide every opportunity for residents to have engaging lifestyle experiences, we created our eight dimensions of wellness including physical, lifelong learning, nutritional, social, emotional, spiritual, vocational and community.

Each week this summer we’re bringing you a fun way to engage in a different aspect of wellness. This week we’re bringing you nutritional based fun summer drinks to enjoy with family.

Stay cool with these delicious drinks you can make at home:

Lavender Lemonade

This is a twist on your normal lemonade, including real dried lavender to make from scratch.

Ocean Water

Embrace summer and the beach with this themed drink made with coconut extract and lime soda.

Watermelon Juice

Jam packed with all the nutrient of regular watermelon, this is a fun way turn it into a refreshing drink, including mint and ginger.

Ginger Peach Soda

This recipe utilities fresh peaches and can be turned into an ‘after dark’ drink with a simple addition.

Cucumber Ginger Mint Agua Fresca

You can’t get any better than cucumbers when it comes to both refreshing and healthy.

We hope you enjoy making these drink with friends and family, and continue to beat the heat this summer with our eight dimensions of wellness!

As we age, it’s important to keep our minds and bodies sharp by engaging in lifelong learning. Learning isn’t just about reading books and attending classes – there are many other ways to interact with the world around us. This week, we’re highlighting how you can take advantage of the Lifelong Learning dimension of Westminster’s Eight Dimensions of Well-Being to keep your mind sharp during the summer months.

Residents at a Westminster Communities of Florida’s Life Plan Communities enjoy a plethora of lifelong learning opportunities as a part of our MyWLife wellbeing program. We believe that wellbeing is much more than just physical wellness, and that to be “well,” you must consider your mind as well as your body. Explore three ways to keep sharp this summer: at a Westminster Community, with an online community or in your greater community.

LEARN AT A WESTMINSTER COMMUNITY

Many of our Life Plan Communities have partnerships with local colleges and universities and even host courses on campus. In Tallahassee, St. Petersburg and Jacksonville, we have partnerships with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes at Florida State University, Eckerd College and the University of North Florida, for residents to attend these exceptional courses and even provide classrooms! Here is a sample of some of the courses available for the upcoming semesters:

• The Wizard of Menlo Park: Thomas Edison at Westminster Shores: In 1847, in a small Ohio town, a boy was born who befuddled those he met. He didn’t talk until the age of four, developed a level of genius rarely seen and would go on to change the world with his many inventions. Thomas Edison would do whatever he could to achieve his goal of getting rich, ruthlessly crushing competitors, taking credit for the work of others and estranging himself from his children. Even so, life as we know it today was inexorably shaped by the man known as “The Wizard of Menlo Park.”
• A Very British Problem: Brexit (1945-2021) at Westminster Palms: Since the end of the Second World War, Britain has struggled with the question: Is Britain European? One response to that question is that Britain can only thrive if it is more European; for others, England can only succeed if it is less European. Explore the path to Brexit and what this means for the future of Britain and Europe.
• Eye to I: From Self-Portraits to Selfies at Westminster Suncoast: Self-portraiture has a long tradition while selfies are relatively new. Both, however, spring from the same human impulse: to be seen and shape the way we are seen. While most of our selfies will never be mistaken for a Rembrandt, some have been recognized as works of art. Join Margo Hammond in a survey of self-portraiture and get inspired to create more artistic selfies of your own.

Whatever your interests may be, you are sure to find something that sparks your curiosity and expands your horizons. With these exceptional courses available right at our doorstep, there is no better time to start exploring lifelong learning opportunities.

LEARN ONLINE

Lifelong Learning doesn’t just have to happen in a classroom. Having access to educational opportunities right at home is an invaluable asset for older adults looking to stay sharp. With the abundance of online courses, tutorials, and videos available, there are endless possibilities for learning without ever leaving the house. Here are a few ways to engage:

• Absorb information online: Learn a new skill or brush up on an existing one with an online course, ranging from basic computer skills and internet safety, to cooking techniques or foreign language instruction. Many sites such as LinkedIn or Coursera offer free or low-cost access to courses in a variety of subjects and skill levels. Residents at Westminster Point Pleasant enjoy access to One Day University, offering hundreds of entertaining and informative lectures on science, history, art, politics and more, like “Inside the Score of Broadway’s ‘Hamilton’” with Gil Harel of Brandeis University and “Much Ado about Shakespeare: Why Three Great Comedies Still Matter Today” with Joseph Luzzi of Bard College.
• Explore your local library: Libraries are a valuable resource for accessing materials without having to purchase them. Explore books, magazines, newspapers, audiobooks and DVDs for free in topics ranging from history and philosophy to fiction and science fiction. Participate in programs and educational opportunities offered and engage with your peers. For those with limited mobility, your local library may even offer delivery services so users can still take advantage of their offerings without having to leave home.
• Become a master with help from museums: Get great information about art, culture, science, technology and other aspects of life – often with interactive exhibits designed specifically for older adults at your local museums!

No matter what your learning style is or what subject you’re interested in exploring further – there are plenty of options available right at home for keeping your mind active.

LEARN IN YOUR GREATER COMMUNITY

It’s not enough just to set aside dedicated time for studying or taking online classes—you should also look at ways to make learning part of your everyday life.

• Volunteer: Stay connected with your community and learn new skills by volunteering. Whether it’s helping at a local charity, participating in environmental projects, or teaching others about topics you’re passionate about, volunteering provides meaningful opportunities for seniors to get involved and make a difference. Not only will you be able to help others, but you can also develop valuable skills.
• Meet with like-minded individuals: Joining book clubs is another great way to stay engaged with learning. Through these discussions, members can gain different perspectives on various topics as well as form meaningful relationships with their peers. Many book clubs also provide access to free readings and literary events in the area that offer further learning opportunities.
• Check out local colleges and universities: Attending lectures at nearby universities is another way seniors can keep sharp this summer. Many universities offer free admission for seniors who are interested in attending lectures and gives seniors the chance to hear from top industry professionals and experts on diverse topics that may interest them. This type of interaction offers an invaluable learning experience that cannot be replicated online – not only do seniors get direct contact with experts, but they also benefit from engaging with students of all ages who might have fresh thoughts on current topics of discussion.

NEVER STOP LEARNING

Lifelong learning is an invaluable part of a well-rounded lifestyle. By exploring the opportunities available at Westminster Communities of Florida’s communities, online or in your greater community, seniors can keep sharp and engaging with the world around them this summer. Don’t miss out on the chance to boost your vitality and well-being – explore the possibilities with Westminster’s 8 Dimensions of Well-Being today!

When you’re craving a night out at the theater, you don’t have to go to Broadway. Stay at home in sunny Florida, where it’s easy to enjoy outstanding musical shows and performances with performing arts centers close to home!

Whether you’re looking for a light-hearted comedy show, a live concert, a classic play, or a unique dance performance, there’s something for everyone. From traditional to modern, these venues showcase a variety of performances. Plus, many of these locations have educational programs and classes for those interested in learning more about the performing arts. So, if you’re looking for a great evening of entertainment, try one of these shows, coming up this summer!

Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts – Orlando

In the heart of central Florida, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is located in downtown Orlando. They feature several series with events occurring year round, including a Broadway Series, Orchestral, Ballet, Comedy and more.

Here are a few of their upcoming shows:

Reflections: 50th Anniversary Special – September 21 – 24, 2023
Reflections is a celebratory launch of Orlando Ballet’s 50th season and offers a look back as well as ahead in terms of how the organization has evolved from its very humble start to become one of Central Florida’s leading performing arts organization. We begin with the premiere of our own anniversary film that tells a story about love for the art form and the risk-taking that helped build the organization, including missteps and victories that occurred along the way. We’ve harvested conversations from many of the talented artists and community leaders who were involved from the beginning while we celebrate today’s highly respected professional dance company.

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra – October 8, 2023
London’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is uncompromising in their excellence and at the forefront of orchestral music in Europe. Performing over 200 concerts a year, including a residency at The Dr. Phillips Center, the Orchestra draws audiences, live and online, of more than 60 million people a year. The Royal Philharmonic is recognized as the UK’s most in-demand orchestra both at its home Royal Albert Hall and in performances across the globe.

Annie – October 23 – 29, 2023
Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production – just as you remember it and just when we need it most.

Straz Center for the Performing Arts – Tampa

On the west coast of Florida you can visit the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa, close to several Westminster communities. They feature a touring Broadway Series, Opera, Plays, and so much more.

Here are a few of their upcoming shows:

LIZZE: The Musical – Now through August 6, 2023
Lizzie Borden was acquitted of the 1892 ax murders of her stepmother and father, but creepy legends and schoolyard rhymes insist on her guilt. (They also exaggerate – whoever dispensed with the elder Bordens did so with 18 and 11 whacks, far less than the 40 and 41 of the playground anthem.) In LIZZIE: THE MUSICAL, young Miss Borden’s tale is related by four ferocious women fronting a six-piece rock band playing songs with snarling attitude and gleeful gallows humor.

TWILIGHT – Los Angeles, 1992 – August 16 – August 27, 2023
The acquittal of police officers accused of beating Rodney King set off five days of rioting, an outpouring of rage Los Angeles hadn’t seen since the 1965 Watts riots. Playwright Anna Deavere Smith’s stunning one-woman play, TWILIGHT: Los Angeles, 1992, recounts that time from 27 different perspectives. Jobsite’s Andresia Moseley takes on the challenge of portraying 27 characters to capture what BroadwayWorld called the “cacophony of voices at the city’s heart” following the King trial’s verdict.

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead – September 13 – October 8, 2023
Before winning an Oscar® as a writer of Shakespeare in Love, Tom Stoppard delivered a comic retelling involving the Bard of Stratford-upon-Avon — he dove into Hamlet retelling it from the point of view of two bumbling support players. The entire world is a stage, and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern play their part as the unwitting pawns in history’s greatest tragedy. This is the story of what “really” happens behind the scenes as events pass them by.

With these performing centers close to several Westminster Communities of Florida communities, it makes it convenient for residents at one of our communities to enjoy a night of fun at the theater!

How can you fall in love with performing arts? Find the Westminster community near you to learn more.

At Westminster Communities of Florida, we believe that in order to be “well” you must consider the entire being: body, mind and spirit. We take this to heart, and offer residents and team members an active and engaging lifestyle inspired by eight dimensions of wellness including physical, lifelong learning, nutritional, social, emotional, spiritual, vocational and community.

In the coming weeks, we’ll be highlighting how you can take advantage of one of the eight dimensions of wellness to stay cool and active during the summer months. It’s no secret that Florida summers are hot, but with Westminster’s Eight Dimensions of Well-Being, the summer heat won’t stop your active lifestyle.

This week, we’re focusing on the physical dimension of well-being to help you beat the heat and stay active. From yoga and stretching to swimming and water aerobics, there are plenty of ways for seniors to stay cool, active and healthy indoors.

YOGA AND STRETCHING

Yoga has become increasingly popular among seniors in recent years, and for good reason. Not only can it help with physical health and fitness, but it can also be calming for the mind. Yoga is low-impact, making it an ideal exercise for those who are older or have limited mobility. It also helps to improve flexibility, balance, and muscle strength – essential components of a successful active senior lifestyle.

Stretching is an important complement to any form of exercise, especially for seniors. Regular stretching helps keep muscles flexible and strong which can reduce the risk of injury from falls or other activities that require strength or agility. This is especially true during hot summer months when outdoor temperatures can cause muscles to stiffen up more quickly than normal due to sweat loss or air conditioning use indoors.

To ensure safety, start slowly and don’t push yourself beyond what is comfortable—pain should not be part of any stretching regimen. Additionally, always warm up your muscles first by taking a few minutes to walk before starting your stretch routine since cold muscles are more likely to tear when stretched too far too quickly. When done correctly – both yoga and stretching can provide numerous mental and physical benefits for seniors looking to beat the heat this summer while staying healthy and fit.

SWIMMING AND WATER AEROBICS

Swimming and water aerobics for seniors can provide a great way to stay cool during the summer heat while still getting the physical exercise they need. Swimming is one of the best aerobic exercises available, as it works all major muscle groups while providing resistance that’s easy on joints. It also helps improve balance and coordination, making it an ideal exercise for seniors.

Water aerobics is another great option for seniors who want to stay active during hot summer days. This type of exercise can be done in a pool or even in a shallow body of water. It involves performing various movements that target key muscle groups while also providing resistance from the water itself.
Swimming and water aerobics provide senior citizens with an excellent way to beat the heat while still staying physically active during hot summer months in Florida. With proper instruction and guidance, anyone can stay fit during the warmest days with these two simple but effective forms of exercise.

GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES AND DANCING

Group exercise classes and dancing are great ways for seniors to stay cool while getting a good physical workout. Group exercise classes are available at our Life Plan Communities, but can also be found at many community centers, YMCAs, or senior centers. These classes provide an opportunity for older adults to engage with their peers in a safe setting and can be tailored to any fitness level.

In addition to group exercise classes, there are also options for seniors who want to beat the heat with some dancing. Line dancing is an especially popular option as it allows elderly participants to dance without too much strain on their joints. Line dancing also provides the opportunity for seniors of all ability levels to join in and have fun while getting active. Other forms of dance, such as salsa or ballroom dancing can also be beneficial for those looking for a more challenging form of movement. These dances require more coordination than line dancing but still provide the same benefits such as improved balance and agility as well as social interaction with other dancers.

Not only will these activities help keep you physically healthy but they’ll also give you an opportunity to enjoy yourself socially in a safe environment. So don’t let the heat stop you from staying active this summer – get moving indoors!

LIGHT WEIGHT TRAINING

Light weight training uses light weights or resistance bands to target key muscle groups to increase strength, improve balance and flexibility, and reduce the risk of falling. Light weight training can be done at home with minimal equipment, or seniors can join group classes at their community or local senior center.

When engaging in light weight training, it’s important for seniors to use light weights that are easy on their joints. Movements like bicep curls, triceps extensions, shoulder presses, squats and lunges are all great exercises that target different muscle groups while being gentle on the body. It’s also important to focus on proper form when doing these exercises so as not to put too much strain on the body or risk injury.

It’s also beneficial for older adults to include cardiovascular activity such as walking or jogging into their routine along with light weight training. This helps them maintain a healthy heart rate while increasing aerobic capacity and overall fitness level.

Overall, light weight training is an excellent form of low-impact exercise that can help keep seniors cool during the summer months while providing them with numerous health benefits including increased strength and balance as well as improved cognitive function.

Florida summers can be intense, but that doesn’t have to stop seniors from staying active and healthy. With Westminster’s Eight Dimensions of Well-Being, seniors can beat the heat and stay fit with activities from low-impact yoga poses to challenging dance moves. There are plenty of ways for seniors to stay cool and active this summer, so don’t let the heat stop you from staying healthy and fit. Get moving indoors with Westminster’s 8 Dimensions of Well-Being!

Summertime is the ideal time to spend quality time with the younger generations of your family. With grandchildren and great-grandchildren out of school, why not take the opportunity to go on an adventure together? From exploring the great outdoors to trying out new activities, you can make lasting memories and have a lot of fun. Here are some ideas of activities you can do together to make the most of your summer days:

Take a Trip to the Beach

Beach trips are a great way to enjoy quality time with your grandchildren. With the warm weather and plenty of sunshine, it’s the perfect place for some outdoor fun. Spend the day building sandcastles, hunting for seashells, flying kites in the sea breeze or jumping in the waves. If swimming isn’t their thing, there are plenty of other activities they can do at the beach such as playing catch or Frisbee on the shoreline.

If you’d rather stay away from salty water altogether, pack up and head to your local park instead! Bring along a Frisbee or a kite and plenty of snacks to enjoy the day outdoors together. If there’s an ice cream truck nearby be sure to treat your grandchildren (and yourself!) after all that playing around is done!

Visit Your Local Zoo

Visiting a local zoo with your grandkids can be a fun and educational experience. From learning about exotic animals to seeing them in person, zoos provide an opportunity to explore the world of wildlife while spending quality time with your family. Plus, it’s a great way to get outside and enjoy some fresh air together.

Some zoos are focused on conservation efforts, while others offer more interactive experiences with hands-on animal encounters. You may even find zoos that specialize in certain species or regions of the world! Once you know what type of zoo you want to visit, you can start searching for one nearby. Curious about what zoo is right for you? Read our article about zoos local to our Westminster Life Plan Communities.

Try a Pick-Your-Own Farm

Visiting a pick-your-own farm is a great way to get out of the house and enjoy some quality time with your grandkids. In Florida, it’s blueberry season! At the farm, you can pick as much or as little as you like. Many people take the opportunity to stock up on delicious, farm-fresh produce, providing you with all the fresh fruits and vegetables that you need. You can also purchase pre-picked fruit and vegetables from the farm store, as well as other items such as jams, jellies, and preserves. Some farms even offer activities and educational opportunities for adults and children, such as hayrides, nature walks, and cooking classes.

Take a Swing at Mini-Golfing

Mini-golf is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and have some lighthearted fun with your loved ones. Children have the opportunity to develop their hand-eye coordination and problem solving skills as they work out how to maneuver their ball around tricky obstacles. It also teaches them patience, perseverance, sportsmanship, and teamwork when playing with others or competing against each other. It’s a great chance to learn the importance of good sportsmanship and cooperation.

Summertime provides the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with younger generations. From beach trips to pick-your-own farms, there are plenty of activities that you can do together to make the most of your summer days. Mini-golfing is a great way to have some lighthearted fun, while visiting the zoo or a local farm can be educational experiences. No matter what activity you choose, time spent with family is always valuable, so don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all the fun memories you’ll make!

Summer is here, and it’s time to get out and enjoy the sunshine! Whether you love gardening, boating, swimming, cycling or just taking in the warmth of the day, this is the best time of year for sun-lovers. Time in the sun is also the best source of Vitamin D, a vitamin that many older adults need more of.

While the outdoors are wonderful, it’s especially important for older adults to stay safe while enjoying the sun. Sun damage is more common in seniors, so it’s important to take extra precautions when you’re out in the sun. In this blog post, we’ll discuss three fun ways to stay protected from the sun this summer. So grab your hat, sunscreen and sunglasses, and let’s get started!

Always wear sunscreen and apply it properly

It’s essential to wear sunscreen no matter how old you are or what time of year it is. But for seniors, wearing sunscreen and applying it properly is even more important. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more fragile, making older adults more prone to sun damage.

The best way to protect your skin from the sun is by using a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection. Broad-spectrum means that it’ll block both kinds of ultraviolet (UV) rays from penetrating your skin. A rating of SPF 30+ indicates that the sunscreen will offer substantial protection against burning.

When applying your sunscreen, don’t forget to cover all exposed areas of skin, including your face, neck, ears and hands. Be sure to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating — this will help provide maximum protection from the sun’s damaging rays. You should also use a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher to protect your lips from sun damage.

Remember that even if you apply sunscreen correctly, you can still get sunburned. For the most safety, reapply your sunscreen every two hours and spend the peak times of day in the shade.

Take a tip from people who live in the desert and cover up

It should come as no surprise that people who live in the desert have a few tips for staying safe in the sun. After all, this type of climate is known for its hot temperatures and intense UV rays. Traditional clothing worn by the Tuareg of the Saharan Desert and the Bedouins of the Arabian Desert is long, lightweight and loose-fitting. That helps protect you from harsh sun exposure during the day.

One of the most important tips we can learn is to cover up as much skin as we can, when we’re outside. Clothing can act as a physical barrier between your skin and the sun’s harmful rays. That can include wearing a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants, to keep your face, arms and legs shielded from the sun. Don’t forget to wear sunglasses to protect the eyes!

It’s important to choose light-colored fabrics that are lightweight for comfort, yet tightly woven enough to block out harmful UV rays.

Stay indoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. whenever possible to avoid excess sun exposure

The time of day when you choose to be outdoors can make a big difference in how exposed you are to the sun’s harmful UV rays. To minimize your risk of sun damage, try to stay indoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when possible. This period is the time of day when skin-damaging UV rays are strongest.

If you choose to go outside during this time, be sure to keep our previous tips in mind in wearing sunblock and protective clothing. Pay special attention to areas that are more vulnerable, such as your face, neck, arms and legs. Additionally, wear sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection to reduce the risk of eye damage from the sun’s glare.

Seeking shade is another great way to enjoy the summer outdoors without sun damage. Look for trees or other structures that can provide natural cover while still allowing you to enjoy the view. Consider setting up a beach umbrella or bringing a pop-up canopy for added protection when you spend extended periods outdoors.

Finally, drinking plenty of water will help keep your body hydrated and cool while out in the heat. Just be sure not to become overheated by staying in direct sunlight too long!

Did you know that when you choose to live at a Westminster Life Plan Community, you’ll have access to fun programming with sun safety in mind — all year round? Our Resident Experience team provides exciting and active lifestyle options every day. Learn more about the lifestyle you can enjoy at a Westminster community, and find the community near you today!

Happy National Zoo Day! Today we’re celebrating the wonderful creatures and habitats found in zoos near our communities and spreading the word about special discounts for seniors at these attractions. Whether you live near a zoo or you’re planning a special visit with your grandkids, we’ve got the scoop on where to go and deals that can enhance your zoo experience.

Bradenton

Bradenton is home to two wonderful zoos: Sarasota Jungle Gardens and Myakka Elephant Ranch. Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a beautiful 10-acre tropical landscape and wildlife sanctuary that features over 200 native and exotic animals including tropical birds, reptiles, mammals and amphibians. The gardens are also home to several endangered species like the Florida panther and West Indian manatee. With its lush vegetation and diverse array of animals, the gardens offer visitors an unforgettable experience.

Myakka Elephant Ranch is another favorite destination for animal lovers in Bradenton. This unique facility offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with elephant herds from around the world. Visitors can feed and touch these gentle giants while learning about their habits and habitats from knowledgeable guides. In addition to interacting with elephants, visitors can also explore the ranch’s other wildlife exhibits featuring camels, zebras, monkeys, birds of prey, tortoises, alligators, and more.

While neither zoo offers discounted admission for seniors, your grandchildren under the age of 3 visit for free at the Sarasota Jungle Gardens! Be sure to call either attraction and inquire about potential holiday, group or veterans discounts when planning your visit.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens
https://sarasotajunglegardens.com
3701 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34234

Myakka Elephant Ranch
https://www.myakkaelephantranch.org
4450 Verna Bethany Rd, Myakka City, FL 34251

St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is home to two incredible zoos, ZooTampa at Lowry Park and the Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center. Both offer a variety of habitats and creatures that can be enjoyed by all ages.

ZooTampa offers visitors a unique experience with its exciting exhibits featuring over 1,000 animals from around the world. Its expansive grounds are filled with lush gardens, exotic wildlife and interactive activities for everyone to enjoy. Emphasizing endangered, threatened and vulnerable species from climates similar to the Tampa Bay Region, the Zoo features African elephants and penguins, a Malayan tiger and Komodo dragons, American alligators and bald eagles and many more. ZooTampa also has daily programs such as keeper talks, animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours that provide insight into animal care and conservation efforts at the zoo.

The Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center is a great place to explore nature up close and personal! The center is home to over 250 animals including alligators, lizards, small mammals, amphibians, turtles and tortoises and fresh and saltwater marine life. Learn about the natural history, importance of, and ways in which we can coexist with the rich diversity of wildlife in the world, as well as preventing and reducing human-wildlife conflicts.

For seniors visiting either ZooTampa or the Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center there are special discounts available on admission fees to make it easier to enjoy these wonderful attractions without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for an affordable way to experience nature’s beauty this National Zoo Day, take advantage of $2 off the price of a single day admission ticket to ZooTampa and $4 off the price of a general admission ticket to the Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center. Can’t visit the Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center in person? Take a virtual tour: https://storage.net-fs.com/hosting/3487339/86/

ZooTampa at Lowry Park
https://zootampa.org
1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604

Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center
https://kissagator.com/
12973 Village Blvd A-D John’s Pass Village, Madeira Beach, FL

Orlando and Central Florida

When it comes to visiting zoos and wildlife parks in the Orlando area, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens and Gatorland are two of the best. The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is located in Sanford, just outside of Orlando. Here visitors can explore a range of habitats, from tropical rainforest to wetlands and savannas, and get up close with over 350 animals representing over 100 species, from small scorpions to graceful giraffes, and even the endangered Indian rhino. In addition to its animal exhibits, the zoo offers educational programs, daily activities and special events throughout the year.

Gatorland is also a must-see for zoo goers in Orlando. Established in 1949 as a roadside attraction, this 110-acre park celebrates all things gator. Here you can witness the famous “Gator Jumparoo” show during which alligators jump for lunch; observe wild gators from boardwalks; or take part in an up-close encounter with one of these powerful reptiles. Gatorland also features aviaries full of stunning birds and other animals such as snakes and tortoises that guests can view at their leisure.

Seniors don’t have to miss out on enjoying these wonderful attractions either! Both Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens and Gatorland offer discounts on admission fees specifically for seniors. Adults older than 55 save $4 off the price of admission at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, and seniors aged 60 and above save $5 off adult admissions to Gatorland.

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
http://www.centralfloridazoo.org
3755 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771

Gatorland
https://www.gatorland.com
14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, Florida 32837

Jacksonville and St. Augustine

For those in the Jacksonville and St. Augustine areas, there are two more great attractions to visit on National Zoo Day. The first is the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, which offers more than 2,000 rare and exotic animals and 1,000 varieties of plants. The zoo is one of only seven zoos in the country with an animal wellness team, helping provide the very best care to animals, and the Manatee Critical Care Center is one of seven that rescues and rehabilitates Florida’s manatees.

The other zoo in the area is the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. This family-friendly attraction features a variety of reptiles and animal encounters that will excite kids of all ages. See albino alligators, birds of Africa, exotic birds and mammals, Florida native reptiles and more, plus fossils of the ancient predecessors to these animals. Not only is this a great way to explore some amazing creatures up close but it’s also an opportunity to learn more about conservation efforts being done at local zoos and wildlife sanctuaries across Florida.

No matter what part of Florida you live in or plan to visit this National Zoo Day, there’s sure to be an exciting exhibit or program nearby that everyone can enjoy at discounted rates for seniors! Adults aged 65 and older enjoy a 10% discount on memberships to Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, and 10% off general admission to St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
http://www.jacksonvillezoo.org/
370 Zoo Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32218

St. Augustine Alligator Farm
https://www.alligatorfarm.com/
999 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Tallahassee

In Tallahassee, enjoy a visit to the North Florida Wildlife Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to wildlife conservation through public educational outreach, propagation of rare and endangered species, and habitat restoration efforts. Established in 2019, the North Florida Wildlife Center is a top attraction in North Florida, offering visitors the opportunity to learn about the environment and become involved in local conservation initiatives. Animal residents include lemurs, sloths, anteaters, red kangaroos, bats, hedgehogs, owls, buzzards, turtles, frogs and many more. Due to construction, the center doesn’t offer self-guided tours, but seniors enjoy a $5 discount on guided tours.

North Florida Wildlife Center
https://www.northfloridawildlife.org
1386 Cook Road, Lamont, FL 32336

Go out and explore!

There are plenty of options for seniors to explore the wonders of the animal kingdom on National Zoo Day. Whether you decide to visit one of Florida’s many zoos, wildlife parks, or animal sanctuaries, you are sure to have a memorable experience filled with fascinating creatures, breathtaking habitats and educational opportunities. Take advantage of special discounts for seniors available at many of these attractions, making it easier to explore nature with family without breaking the bank.