Central Florida Zoo Veterans Day Free Admission 2026
- Veterans and active military members get free admission to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens for Veterans Day.
- The offer runs Saturday, Nov. 7 through Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Sanford.
- Veterans can also buy three tickets and get three free for family and friends, at the gate only with a valid military I.D. or DD214.
What’s Happening at the Central Florida Zoo for Veterans Day?
The Central Florida Zoo Veterans Day offer gives free admission to all veterans and active military members at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Sanford from Saturday, Nov. 7 through Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026. It’s the zoo’s annual way of thanking those who have served and those who are still serving.
The deal goes beyond the service member, too. Veterans can bring the family along with a buy-one-get-one offer on up to six tickets, so three paid tickets come with three free ones. With more than 350 animals to visit, it’s an easy, affordable outing for a long Veterans Day weekend.
Key Details & Highlights
- Dates & Availability: Saturday, Nov. 7 through Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Location: Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, 3755 W. Seminole Blvd., Sanford, FL 32771
- Pricing & Access: Free admission for veterans and active military; veterans can buy up to three tickets and get three more free (six tickets total). Available in person at the zoo gate only, not online. Details are on the zoo’s Veterans Day Weekend at the Zoo page.
- Who Qualifies: active duty, current guard and reserves, non-active duty, retirees and veterans.
- What to Bring: a valid military I.D. or DD214 to show at the gate.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
Because this offer is not redeemable online, don’t buy tickets on the zoo’s website ahead of time if you plan to use it. Head straight to the admission gate, have your military I.D. or DD214 ready, and buy any family tickets there so the three-for-three deal applies. Arriving early in the 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. window gives you the most time with the animals.
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is a not-for-profit, AZA-accredited zoo supported by private donations and gate admission, so a visit also helps its conservation work. If you enjoy your day in Sanford, the zoo is also home to seasonal events like the Asian Lantern Festival. For more ideas, browse our Central Florida attractions coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Central Florida Zoo Veterans Day free admission?
Free admission for veterans and active military runs from Saturday, Nov. 7 through Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.
Who qualifies for free admission?
Active duty, current guard and reserves, non-active duty, retirees and veterans all qualify. You just need to show a valid military I.D. or DD214 at the gate.
Can I get the Veterans Day deal online?
No. Both the free admission and the buy-one-get-one ticket offer are only available in person at the zoo and cannot be redeemed online.
Can veterans bring family members for less?
Yes. Veterans can buy up to three tickets and get three free, for up to six tickets total for family and friends.
Where is the Central Florida Zoo?
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is at 3755 W. Seminole Blvd. in Sanford, Florida 32771.
Official details and press materials can be viewed via Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens: Veterans Day Weekend at the Zoo.
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