A tall giraffe stands near a metal gate inside a zoo enclosure, viewed through a chain-link fence.

Redland Conservation Center

A hands-on, family-run wildlife experience where you actually connect with the animals.

(69)
$$$$Homestead, FL

About

Redland Conservation Center isn't your typical zoo visit. Jacob, his mother, and their small team run this place with a level of personal attention that's rare anywhere, let alone a wildlife attraction. Guests consistently walk away saying it felt like visiting family. That warmth is real, and it starts before you even arrive.

The experience is hands-on in a way that actually means something. You're not watching animals from behind a rope. You're up close, learning the stories behind each animal, asking questions, and getting real answers from people who genuinely care about conservation. Families with kids tend to leave buzzing. First-timers to reptiles or exotic wildlife tend to leave converted.

It's a small operation, which is exactly the point. The intimacy is the draw. Groups are kept personal, the pace is unhurried, and the staff takes time with you. If you've done the big commercial zoo circuit and want something that feels more like an experience than a transaction, this is it.

Homestead sits right at the entrance to Everglades National Park, and Redland Conservation Center fits naturally into that world. The same wild South Florida that makes the Everglades worth visiting is on full display here, up close and personal. Pair a morning at the park with an afternoon here and you've got a genuinely full day.

Call ahead to book. This isn't a walk-up kind of place, and that's part of what makes it work.

Amenities

Accepts Credit Cards

Reviews (69)

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4.9

69 reviews

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Ana Sowers
Ana Sowers

5 months ago

Redland Conservation Center is a hidden gem in Miami. From the very first phone call, I knew this experience was going to be something special. Kimberly was incredibly warm, genuine, and welcoming, setting the tone for what turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences we have ever had. When we arrived, she personally met us at the gate, and the kindness continued the moment we parked, when Savi greeted us with the same warmth and enthusiasm. She was patient, knowledgeable, and so gracious in answering every question, making us feel completely comfortable and excited from the start. We were then introduced to Jacob, and it quickly became clear that this is his true calling. His passion for the animals is extraordinary. He has a natural connection with them that you can feel instantly. The way he speaks to them, handles them, and cares for them is so gentle, so respectful, and so genuine that you can tell the animals trust him completely. He is truly an animal whisperer. Watching him interact with them was just as incredible as the encounters themselves. Everything about Redland Conservation Center feels personal and intentional. It is a peaceful, intimate experience where you are able to truly take in the energy of the animals and the serene, beautiful surroundings. The atmosphere is calm, authentic, and almost magical. You leave feeling connected, not just entertained. We did the Jungle Tour, which included hands-on encounters with lemurs, capuchin monkeys, sloths, parrots, and emus — each one more incredible than the last. We were able to feed the stunning black jaguar and even feed the giant Galápagos tortoise, which was absolutely unforgettable. We also added the Serval cub encounter, and it completely stole our hearts. They were beyond adorable, playful, and so special to interact with up close. If you are visiting Miami, this is an absolute must-do experience. And if you live here, you will not believe that something this extraordinary exists right in our own backyard. This was, without question, the most peaceful, intimate, and meaningful animal experience we have ever had — especially with exotic animals. The care, the passion, the knowledge, and the love you feel here are unmatched. Highly, highly recommend. Unforgettable experience. Truly spectacular in every way

Joe Perry
Joe Perry

6 months ago

I’ve been coming down to Florida with my daughters for almost 10 years now—we make it a yearly family trip and always try to visit different zoos. This was our first time visiting here, and it was hands down our best visit ever. The experience was amazing, very personalized, and super hands-on. We got to see and interact with so many animals including monkeys, lemurs, turtles and tortoises, an emu, iguanas, an owl, a sloth, and even a cockatoo—finishing with Noir the jaguar. Jacob Feder and his mother were incredible hosts. You can tell they truly care about the animals and the experience they give to guests. They made the visit feel special and unforgettable for both me and my daughters. We’ll definitely be coming back!

Cheryl Dugas
Cheryl Dugas

a month ago

My granddaughter and I had such an amazing experience visiting Redland Conservation Center! We received such an incredibly warm welcome from the moment we got there. Jacob, his mother and staff are so genuine immediately you feel relaxed and like you're part of the family. The passion and knowledge they have for the animals and what they do for them is incredible. They took their time with us patiently explaining each animal and answering any questions that we had. Everything is so well kept you can tell how much these animals are loved. Our tour was so relaxed, peaceful and not rushed. The amount of time we were able to spend at each enclosure was worthwhile. Thank you Jacob and all who made this visit so memorable. We appreciate everyone's time and effort that was put into our visit to make it such a great experience.

Ashley Lofy
Ashley Lofy

5 months ago

We had such a wonderful experience visiting Redland Conservation Center! Jacob and his family were incredibly kind and welcoming from the moment we arrived. You can truly tell how much they care about what they do. They took their time with us, patiently answering all of our questions and sharing so much knowledge about the animals. What really stood out was how relaxed and personal the visit felt—we never felt rushed and were able to spend meaningful time with each animal. It’s clear that the animals are well cared for and loved, and that made the experience even more special. We left feeling grateful, inspired, and have two little boys that will not stop talking about it. Highly recommend visiting if you get the chance!

Jenna Peres
Jenna Peres

6 months ago

We had the BEST experience at Redland Conservation Center! From the moment we arrived, we could tell how much care, intention, and passion goes into this place. It's not just a zoo — it's an educational, hands-on experience where you truly connect with the animals. For those who are not fans [yet], this is Jacob Feder's "crazy jungle". Jacob has a successful YouTube Channel and we've been hooked on his videos for the last year and a half. My 5 year old is completely obsessed! Getting to visit in person was such a full-circle moment for him — and Jacob absolutely does not disappoint! He's down to earth, incredibly knowledgeable, and just as genuine in person as he is online. Note: this experience is by appointment only, so you need to schedule ahead — and that's part of what makes it so special. It's not crowded or rushed. The visit feels personal and thoughtfully guided. You can schedule your tour directly on their website. One of the best parts?! They take all the pictures and videos for you. Ours came out so good — better than anything I would've taken! And it's nice because as a mom, I was able to actually get in a few shots (proof of mom, amiright?). The animals are beautiful and clearly well cared for, and you can truly see the conservation mission in action. Our family absolutely loved every second and left talking about it all day. If you’re in the Homestead area this is a must-visit — just be sure to book in advance. We can’t wait to come back!

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