safari drive thru sandusky ohio

This Magical Drive-Thru Safari Park In Ohio Is An Unforgettable Adventure With Gentle African Animals

By: Author Jasper Miller

Posted on July 17, 2024

Ever dreamed of a place where you can experience the magic of an African safari without leaving the heartland of America?

Well, buckle up and get ready for an adventure at African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio .

This one-of-a-kind destination offers a unique drive-thru safari experience that will leave you and your family grinning from ear to ear.

Imagine winding through the park as gentle giraffes, curious zebras, and majestic bison saunter up to your car, eager for a snack and a friendly hello.

Intrigued yet?

Beginning your journey at the African Safari Wildlife Park feels like stepping into a world where the African savannah meets Midwestern charm.

As soon as you drive through the gates, you’re greeted by a landscape teeming with life.

Rolling down your windows, the smells and sounds of the park envelop you, creating an immersive experience that transports you far away from the usual hustle and bustle.

Each turn of the path brings a new surprise, whether it’s the sight of a towering giraffe stretching its neck to munch on leaves or a charismatic alpaca trotting over to investigate your vehicle.

Feeding the animals is the cherry on top of this wild adventure.

For a small fee, you get a cup of feed that feels like a golden ticket to a furry wonderland.

The animals are absolute charmers!

Their gentle approach will make you feel like you’re part of an exclusive club, where everyone has a soft spot for snacks.

You might find yourself giggling as a bison, with its massive head, gingerly nudges your car window, all for a little treat.

It’s an experience teetering between sheer excitement and heart-melting cuteness.

Beyond the thrilling drive-thru safari, the park has even more to offer!

Stretch your legs in the walk-through safari area where you can get up close and personal with some of the park’s most charming residents.

Picture yourself strolling alongside kangaroos and a rainbow of birds that look like they flew straight out of a fairy tale.

It’s like stepping into another world, but without the jet lag.

Next, we’ve got the petting zoo – the ultimate paradise for younger visitors (and let’s be honest, it’s a blast for adults too).

Here, friendly goats and sheep are practically waiting with open hooves for a good scratch behind the ears.

It’s impossible not to fall in love with their adorable antics.

Pro tip: bring your camera.

This place is an Instagram goldmine.

You’ll want to capture every smile, every laugh, and every “aww” moment.

The park also boasts a variety of seasonal events and activities.

During the warmer months, guests can enjoy live educational shows featuring some of the park’s most fascinating inhabitants.

Learn more about the animals’ natural behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts, while getting up close and personal with creatures like reptiles, birds of prey, and more.

Halloween brings a spooky twist with the Safari Boo event, where kids can trick-or-treat through the park in costume, enjoying themed decorations and activities.

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Food and refreshments are available on-site, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring the park.

Grab a bite to eat at the Safari Grill, which offers a selection of burgers, hot dogs, and other casual fare.

There are picnic areas available as well, perfect for those who prefer to bring their own snacks and enjoy a leisurely meal surrounded by nature.

Be sure to check out the gift shop before you leave, where you can pick up a memento of your visit or a souvenir for a loved one.

The staff at African Safari Wildlife Park are dedicated to ensuring that every visitor has a memorable experience.

Friendly and knowledgeable, they’re always on hand to answer questions, provide information about the animals, and ensure that the park runs smoothly.

Their passion for wildlife and conservation shines through in everything they do, making the park not just a fun destination, but an educational one as well.

Accessibility is another key feature of the park.

Whether you’re traveling with young children, elderly family members, or individuals with mobility challenges, the drive-thru format allows everyone to enjoy the safari experience comfortably.

The walk-through areas are also designed to be easily navigable, with well-maintained paths and plenty of benches for resting.

Planning your visit to African Safari Wildlife Park is a breeze.

The park is conveniently located in Port Clinton, making it an easy day trip from major cities like Cleveland and Toledo .

Ample parking is available, and ticket prices are reasonable, especially considering the range of experiences on offer.

It’s advisable to check the park’s website or Facebook page for the latest information on hours of operation, special events, and any seasonal promotions that might be available.

For those looking to make the most of their visit, purchasing tickets online in advance can save time and ensure a smooth arrival.

As you make your way through the park, the sense of wonder and excitement never wanes.

Each encounter with the animals feels like a new discovery, and their individual personalities shine through in their interactions with visitors.

From the playful antics of the goats in the petting zoo to the regal grace of the giraffes, every moment spent at African Safari Wildlife Park is a reminder of the beauty and diversity of the animal kingdom.

Reflecting on the experience, it’s clear why African Safari Wildlife Park holds a special place in the hearts of so many visitors.

The chance to connect with animals in such an intimate and personal way is a rare gift, and the park’s commitment to conservation and education adds an extra layer of meaning to the adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or new to the world of wildlife parks, this destination promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you with stories to share and memories to cherish.

If you’re ready to embark on this wild adventure yourself, visit the African Safari Wildlife Park’s website or Facebook page for more information.

Use this map to plan your route and ensure you don’t miss a single moment of the fun.

Where : 267 S Lightner Rd, Port Clinton, OH 43452

Doesn’t an adventure to the African Safari Wildlife Park in Ohio sound like the perfect way to create unforgettable memories?

Adventure Awaits At This Drive-Thru Safari Park In Ohio

A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.

More by this Author

Do you ever dream of interacting with exotic animals from around the globe? Here in Ohio, the answer may be closer than you think! The African Safari Drive & Walk-Through Wildlife Park is a one-of-a-kind experience that allows visitors to experience some of the world’s most remarkable creatures. Whether you’re hoping to marvel at the height of a real-live giraffe or help feed a bison, you’ll find that there’s nothing quite like this wonderfully wild Ohio destination. Here’s everything you can look forward to when you visit this incredible drive-thru safari park in Ohio.

Please note : The African Safari Drive-Thru park is open seasonally. Be sure to visit the website for the most up-to-date information.

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What are your thoughts on this amazing drive-thru safari in Ohio? Would you plan a trip to meet the animals here? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! For more information, be sure to check out the African Safari Wildlife Park online . You can also follow the African Safari Wildlife Park on Facebook for exciting updates and more details.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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African Safari Wildlife Park

Located not far from the shores of Lake Erie is the African Safari Wildlife Park, which is a featured drive-thru safari type park with plenty of animals that will come right up to your car. There are no dangerous (man-eaters) in the park, but there are quite a few animals with long tongues that might give your vehicle a good slobbering though!

The park is divided into 3 areas: the drive-thru section where you can see plenty of 4-legged creatures, all of which you're given the opportunity of feeding from your car with a cup of food provided with your admission (additional food is available for an extra charge). Some of the animals are considered "Endangered Species" but for the most part, they are not, especially on the drive-thru section.

The other main section is a small zoo with a comfortable path that meanders in and around the cages. Included in this area are several animal opportunities where children can take a ride. There is also an interesting educational program where several animals are presented in an informative way and the kids can pet.

The other part of the park is more suited to a county fair and that is the pig races. Although they are entertaining and drew a large crowd, it seemed entirely out of place for an African Safari Wildlife park. Even so, it was fun to watch the kids cheer on for their assigned swine.

The park includes the usual gift shop plus cafe serving fast-food items, plus a good tasting ice cream parlor with plenty of outdoor seating for casual dining under the trees.

Location and admission

It must be remembered that you will be driving your vehicle through an area where there are some very large animals coming in close contact with you and your expensive vehicle. You are responsible for personal injuries or vehicle damage. Visitors are reminded that they are entering the area at their own risk.

Prices vary with the number of people inside the vehicle. Some special admission rates include all the occupants. Discounts are published online and in various publications. Even without these coupons, zoo memberships and other organizations (i.e. AAA) will also earn you a steep discount.

The park is located just east of Port Clinton and about 20 minutes west of Cedar Point.

267 S. Lightner Road Port Clinton, OH 43452 419-732-3606 / toll free 800-421.2660

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This is a great place that even the most jaded person will enjoy. Despite some of the hokey things going on, it is really a good time that will surprise you. The kids will REALLY like it! I mean, where else can you have a 2,000 pound animal try to stick its head through your window?

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Drive-Thru Safaris

at African Safari Wildlife Park

You’ll want to visit African Safari Wildlife Park this season, featuring the Drive-Thru Safari, the largest area of African Safari, where guests drive their car through and interact with hundreds of exotic animals.

African Safari’s Walk-Thru Safari, the Park’s traditional zoo setting, has also seen an addition of new animal exhibits. The new Giraffe Encounter allows guests to get up close and personal with giraffes and feed them!  The Walk-Thru Safari is scheduled to open around Mother’s Day weekend, weather permitting.  

“We are beyond excited to welcome new and familiar faces to the Park for African Safari’s new season!  Everyone can enjoy the newer Park amenities and continue to make memories here for seasons to come,” said African Safari Wildlife Park’s Director, Kelsey Keller. “We have so much more in store, and we encourage everyone to stay tuned for more zoo news and updates…coming soon!”

The Park is open daily, rain or shine, from 10am to 5pm with the last car admitted at 4pm for the Spring Season. Summer Season begins the last week of May.

The Midwest’s Original Drive-Thru Safari Park, African Safari Wildlife Park , is at 267 S. Lightner Rd. in Port Clinton, Ohio.

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