There is no doubt that snakes are among the most misunderstood wild creatures living on Earth. The reptile is most feared by many, yet it is ecologically important as they play a major role in controlling pests and maintaining balance. Across the United States, there are several reptile parks and serpentariums which help travellers better understand these otherwise misunderstood reptiles through conservation programmes and educational exhibits. Some of these parks house rare venomous species which visitors can spot here. Here are 10 of the most famous snake parks in the United States every wildlife-loving traveller should consider visiting.
Reptile Gardens — South Dakota
Reptile Gardens near Rapid City in South Dakota’s Black Hills region is one of the most famous snake parks in the USA. It was established in 1937 and is home to one of the world’s largest reptile collections, including cobras, pythons and boa constrictors, among others. The nearest airport is Rapid City Regional Airport. From there, the park is only a 20-minute drive.
Kentucky Reptile Zoo — Kentucky
Kentucky Reptile Zoo in Slade near the Red River Gorge is noted for its venom extraction programme. These venoms are used to make antivenom and medical research. The facility focuses mainly on science and conservation. The Lexington Blue Grass Airport is the closest.
Snake Farm Zoo — Texas
Snake Farm Zoo near New Braunfels in Texas is another major snake attraction in the USA. The zoo is home to exotic snakes including pythons, anacondas and other venomous species. One of the most fascinating features of the place is live snake-handling demonstrations. San Antonio International Airport is the closest to the zoo.
Serpentarium Wildlife Park — Florida
Florida’s Serpentarium Wildlife Park was founded by legendary herpetologist Ross Allen. This is a historic attraction in St. Cloud, Florida which is globally famous for snake venom research. The park is home to native Florida snakes and exotic reptiles like vipers and pythons. Orlando International Airport is the nearest airport.
Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary — Arizona
Then we have Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary in Arizona. It is one of America’s leading reptile rescue organisations. Travellers can spot abandoned and illegally traded reptiles including rattlesnakes, king snakes and pythons, among others. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is about 40 minutes from here.
Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland — Pennsylvania
Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland in Allenwood, Pennsylvania is one of the oldest snake-centric tourist attractions in the northeastern United States. The park is known for its beautifully designed reptile habitats. Travellers can also see Komodo dragons along with a list of venomous snakes. The nearest airport is Williamsport Regional Airport, while Harrisburg International Airport is about two hours away by road.
The Reptarium — Michigan
You can’t miss out on exploring the Reptarium near Detroit in Utica, when in Michigan. The Reptarium is quite famous on social media. The best part is that visitors here can even interact with certain non-venomous reptiles. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is about an hour’s drive away.
California Academy of Sciences — California
You can’t miss out on visiting California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. The place is known for its most impressive reptile exhibits. Its rainforest and biodiversity sections include exotic snakes and other tropical reptiles from around the world. The academy is easily accessible by public transport or taxi from San Francisco International Airport.
North Carolina Zoo Reptile Collection — North Carolina
The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro is one of the world’s largest natural-habitat zoos. It’s a full-day experience for wildlife travellers. The park is home to one of the largest reptile collections in the southeastern US. Piedmont Triad International Airport near Greensboro is about an hour away by road.
Audubon Zoo Reptile House — Louisiana
New Orleans’ Audubon Zoo is noted for housing rare snakes and alligators. The humid climate allows the best setting especially suitable for tropical reptile exhibits. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is around 30–40 minutes from the zoo.
