- Attraction: McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary
- Location: 12943 61st St N, West Palm Beach, FL 33412
- Industry: Wildlife Sanctuary
- Website: https://www.mccarthyswildlife.com/
Sometimes the most extraordinary experiences happen in the most unexpected places. McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary is the number #1 rated attraction in West Palm Beach on TripAdvisor.com, yet many visitors stumble upon it accidentally and leave completely mesmerized.
What sets this sanctuary apart from traditional zoos isn’t just the incredible collection of over 200 exotic and native animals—it’s the chance to get within arm’s reach of white tigers, hold baby alligators, and learn the personal rescue stories of every single resident.
The sanctuary is first and foremost a working wildlife rescue facility that has been rehabilitating injured native animals and providing permanent homes to confiscated exotic pets since 1990.
Director Mark McCarthy brings over 30 years of wildlife experience to this remarkable eight-acre sanctuary, creating an authentic educational experience that feels worlds away from commercial tourist attractions.
Incredible Animal Encounters You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
Big Cat Paradise: The crown jewel of McCarthy’s is undoubtedly their impressive collection of big cats. You’ll see White Tigers, African Lions, Black Leopards, Ligers, Lynx and Amur Leopards from just four feet away—closer than legally possible anywhere else.
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Keep Exploring →They have several white tigers, including a “snow” tiger, which is all white with no stripes, an incredibly rare sight that even longtime animal enthusiasts have never witnessed before. The liger (lion-tiger hybrid) is particularly impressive, though you might catch her napping since cats will be cats!
Hands-On Animal Interactions: During the guided tour they take several of the small animals out for people to interact with, including a tortoise, a parrot, a kinkajou, an alligator, a variety of snakes, and a tarantula.
You can hold a small gator while learning about these misunderstood creatures, and many visitors are surprised to discover that tortoises actually enjoy having their shells and necks rubbed, much like dogs. The experience of holding an 8-foot albino Burmese python or letting a colorful parrot perch on your arm creates unforgettable photo opportunities.
The Famous Reptile Room: One of the most popular parts of the tour is the reptile room, which has creatures ranging from tarantulas to a 12-foot albino python. You’ll enjoy the coolest collection of snakes around in their new and improved reptile room with dozens of rattlesnake species. Even visitors who typically fear snakes find themselves fascinated by the guided interactions and educational presentations.
Rescued Animal Stories: Every animal has a compelling backstory. The animal residents are a mix of retired animal actors, native rehabilitation animals that have been injured in the wild and exotic animals that were confiscated due to neglect, abuse or illegal possession. Hearing these individual rescue tales from knowledgeable guides transforms your visit from simple entertainment into a meaningful wildlife conservation experience.
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Discover MoreIntimate Setting & Expert Guidance
Small Group Tours: They can take groups of up to 20 people at a time on a tour, ensuring an intimate experience where you can ask questions and truly connect with both the animals and your guide. The groups are small which gives guests the opportunity to learn about each animals diet, socialization and rehabilitation from the very knowledgeable tour guides.
Passionate Tour Guides: The guides at McCarthy’s consistently receive glowing reviews for their extensive knowledge and genuine passion. Jeremy has a special connection with the animals. He was very informative, extremely knowledgeable, and extremely personable. He brought the animals to life with his stories and information. Whether it’s Ericka, Jeremy, Sabina, or any of the other dedicated team members, you’ll quickly realize these aren’t just employees—they’re true animal advocates who live and breathe wildlife conservation.
Educational Focus: Because the sanctuary is primarily engaged in wildlife rescue, it’s much more educational and in-depth than a zoo or “safari” tourist attraction. This is a working animal sanctuary. It doesn’t feel a bit commercial or ‘touristy’. It was a very authentic experience. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation, animal behavior, and the challenges facing both native Florida species and exotic animals in captivity.
Other Important Considerations
Pricing & Value: The tour cost is $50 per adult and $40 per child, which many visitors consider excellent value for a 1.5-2 hour guided experience. The cost of the tour is minimal compared to what you get, especially considering you’re directly supporting wildlife rescue efforts with your admission fee.
Reservation Requirements: Tours are by appointment only and must be booked by calling (561) 790-2116. Tours are offered Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 11AM, 11:30AM, 12PM, 12:30PM, and 1PM. Book well in advance as this popular attraction fills up quickly.
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Keep Exploring →Age Restrictions: Children must be at least 5 years old to visit the sanctuary due to safety considerations around the working wildlife facility. This makes it perfect for school-age children and adults who want an educational adventure.
Weather & Dress Code: They continue tours in the rain and offer a limited number of umbrellas. Closed shoes and long pants are advised, and hats and sunscreen are also suggested. You will be outside for almost 2 hours. The tour is about half shaded. The pathway is gravel and sand.
Parking & Amenities: Free parking is available on either side of the front gate. They offer water at the front gate for $2 each bottle, and chips and sodas are available at the gift shop. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks into the sanctuary. They have restrooms available before tours begin, and you can feed the turtles in their pond while waiting for your tour to start.
Best Times to Visit: Arrive 15 minutes before your tour starts to check in, use the restroom, and feed the turtles in the pond. Tours start promptly at the scheduled time, and any late arrivals will be escorted in to join the tour in progress. The sanctuary is located 16 miles northwest of downtown West Palm Beach in a peaceful residential area.
McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary
📍 12943 61st St N, West Palm Beach, FL 33412
