Visit the Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo

Do you want to do something so authentically southern that it almost seems a little dangerous? Visiting the alligator farm can be a one-of-a-kind experience you won't be able to find in colder climates. Gators are usually associated with Florida and the bayou, but there are alligator farms even in Arkansas. This farm is one of the oldest attractions in Hot Springs, AR, making it wholeheartedly worth visiting.


You will have the opportunity to hold and pet real baby alligators, learn about a variety of different animals, and even get to feed baby parakeets. This is easily one of the best petting zoos in Arkansas. It's fun for the whole family–even for children who are shy around animals. Come check it out!

A close up of a crocodile with its mouth open.

Essential Information

Address: 847 Whittington Ave, Hot Springs, AR

Hours
January and February
Friday - Sunday: 10AM - 4:30PM

March through December
Every Day: 10AM - 5PM

Prices
The Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo aims to provide an affordable experience for all its guests. Here are the prices per ticket:
Adults: $9
Children (2 - 12): $7
Infants (under 2): FREE

There are military discounts and senior discounts.

Group rates will reduce the price for each individual by $2.50. Groups of 10+ qualify for group rates. For those looking for an excellent deal, there are printable coupons on the zoo's website.

Things to Do

What can you do at this Arkansas zoo? What makes it different? Why is it a staple Hot Spring, AR, attraction?

A small alligator is standing on a concrete surface.

Petting Alligators

The main draw of this petting zoo is the baby alligators. Not only can you look at the bigger alligators relaxing in their habitat, but you and your children can meet the babies up close. You can talk with the guides and learn all about these beautiful creatures as you glide your hands across their scales.


Some parents may be a little concerned about the danger of bringing their children to meet the gators. As long as you and your children are able to respect the animals, avoid removing their mouth guards, and listen to the guide, everything should be okay.


If you visit during feeding season, you will be able to feed the baby alligators using meat and a stick! Fun!

A woman is feeding a giraffe with her hand.

Meeting the Other Animals

While the attraction is named for its gators, there are plenty of other animals you can interact with–especially if you are traveling with younger children.

Petting Zoo (for children and parents)

  • Mini Goats
  • Emus
  • Sheep


Animal Exhibits (you can't pet them, but they are fun to see).

  • Alligators
  • Mountain Lions
  • Wolves
  • Monkeys
  • Raccoons
  • Parakeets (you can feed them for an extra fee)


A group of alligators are swimming in a pond.

Live Feeding Shows

There are several times at this petting zoo that you have chances to feed some of the smaller animals like sheep or parakeets–even the baby alligators. However, if you drop by during feeding times (12pm everyday) you'll have the chance to watch a live feeding. They are thrilling and fun for the entire family.

These shows run from May through October on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

A man with a backpack is looking at his phone in a store.

Gift Shop

If you enjoyed the attraction enough that you want to collect a souvenir, the gift shop has all the knick-knacks, mugs, and other memorabilia you could want! Most of it is gator themed, or at the very least animal-related.


They have everything from facemasks to Christmas ornaments to stuffed animals. It's the perfect place to visit with your animal-loving child!

A woman in a red jacket is holding a piece of paper

Karen Ilizarbe

Owner

Hi! I'm the owner of Knotty & Nice Cabins in Hot Spring, Arkansas. My goal is to provide an adventurous and fun environment for my guests to share—one that feels like home for them and their families. I have been in the lodging industry for many years and love creating timeless memories for my guests.

The Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo is the perfect place to spend your time! This historic petting zoo and gator farm has been around since the beginning of the 20th century, and it won't be going away anytime soon! You can also check out our guides for family fun parks in Hot Springs, Arkansas to keep the fun going!