safari drive thru colorado

MEET THE WILD FROM YOUR CAR OR WAGON.

View over 40 species of animals...all from the comfort of your own vehicle! You'll be able to see animals roam freely on our gorgeous property  Drive your vehicle on our maintained gravel road and see the animals through your windows! See everything from Aoudad to Zebra and lots in between!  

Drive-Thru Safari Park .

Visit anytime between  9:30 AM and 4:00 PM,  7 days a week. No reservations necessary!

*Pricing above is subject to change.

*Feed IS NOT included, subject to an additional charge.

Adults - $23.00 Seniors (65+) - $20.00 Children (3-12) - $17.00 Ages 2 and under - FREE

Our Pricing .

Experience the self-guided Drive Thru Safari in your personal vehicle and see over 40 different species!  

DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED ON THE SAFARI!

OPEN AIR VEHICLES are NOT allowed.  Vehicles must have tops and solid doors to participate in the safari.

Guided Wagon .

Experience the guided Drive Thru Safari on wagon and see over 40 different species!  Go off the path and get up close and personal with the animals! Reservations highly suggested!

Adults - $37.00 Seniors (65+) - $34.00 Children (3-12) - $31.00 Ages 2 and under - FREE

Available seasonally from Mid-March-October 1 Hour Experience 9:30, 10:45, 12:00, 1:45, 3:00- peak season 10:00, 12:00, 2:00- non-peak season

+SAFARI FEED: INCLUDED

*Safari Feed IS included!

Also Included .

ROOS & CREW

Don't miss the variety of small animals at our Roos and Crew Barn.  View our animals in an intimate setting and learn all about their personalities. 

Complete with a variety of small animals, kangaroos, and reptiles it is sure to be a memorable experience!

Save Time .

Save Time by clicking the link below and completing your waiver prior to arrival!

Important Info .

ALL car occupants must purchase a full price ticket.  All safari park purchases are non-refundable!

Have any  Questions ?

4229 US-150 W, Paoli, IN 47454

[email protected]     //  812-936-4484

Proudly created by: fuhscreative.com

Monday-Sunday

Last tour one hour before closing time

865-919-5072

Please call if you need more information.

Buy tickets

Wagon rides are available by appointment only

Briarwood Ranch Safari Park features animals from around the world. On your scenic, four-mile safari through beautiful hills and pasture lands, you will experience animals from six continents.

Visit Today

Take plenty of time to study their behavior from the safety of your own car.

Be sure to bring your camera. You may want to ride on tractor pulled wagons or enjoy a lazy afternoon in our petting zoo.

See our gallery

See photos of some of the animals in the park.

Inside the gallery are some of the animals you will encounter when you visit the park.

The Park is OPEN 9AM-5PM Mon-Sun (Weather Permitting) Please call 865-919-5072 if you need more information.

For your safety and to allow us to continue this amazing experience, we ask that you follow our rules listed here and given by the tour guides  before embarking on each adventure!

TRUCK TOUR TIMES

ONE TRUCK RUNNING: 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM daily.

TWO TRUCKS RUNNING: 11:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 3:30 PM

THREE TRUCKS RUNNING: 11:00 AM, 11:15 AM, 1:30, AM, 1:00 PM, 1:15 PM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 3:15 PM, and 3:30 PM 

DRIVE-THRU SAFARI

Drive your own vehicle or sign up for a Safari Truck Tour! 

Safari Truck Tours are first come first serve sign-ups in the gift shop (must pay combo price).

Pre-booking only available for group reservations.

Welcome to our largest addition yet!

See over 100 animals of 25 species in our large open spaces at the Drive-Thru Safari. The Safari section is located just up the roa d from

Keys tone Safari's walk-thru par k.

 Please do NOT feed or interact with the Zebras, Blue Wildebeest, and Scimitar Horned Oryx. Any guest not following this rule will be escorted out of the park without refund. 

Safari Truck  Tours

-Our 1970s ex-military vehicles are outfitted with bull bars and undercarriage framing to protect our animals, and you!

-Our tour guides are not just drivers! They are well equipped and highly trained to handle any questions and any encounters with our wild animals. Education is important to us as it is to you - come prepared to  learn  about our animals from nose to tail!

-You will get up close and personal with over 100 wild animals on this hour long trek across 80 acres of Rolling Plains, Thick Fore sts and Deep Waters!

Safari Drive-Thru (Personal Car)

Gates close 45 minute before cl osing

Keystone Safari and it’s affiliates are not responsible for damages to any vehicle. Drivers assume all liability when entering the Drive-Thru section of the park.

Jeeps Are Welcome!

We are excited to share the gravel road with o ur friends

Enjoy our safari tour from the comfort of your Jeep

Rules For Jeeps

MUST have full doors, half doors, or tube doors

MUST have a full roof 

NO soft tops

Stay in the vehicle! Do not exit your vehicle or hang out of it

No outside animals of any kind

Speed Limit 2 MPH. Keep the animals safe

Animal List

Guanacos, Llamas, Miniature Donkeys, Highlander Cattle, Emu, Rhea,  Nilgai, Pere David’s Deer, Blue Wildebeest , Scimitar-Horned Oryx, Fallow Deer, American Bison, Yak, Common Eland, Turkey, Grant's Zebra, Water Buffalo, Elk and more!

THE 10 BEST Colorado Safaris

Safaris in colorado.

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What travelers are saying.

Watch CBS News

Giraffe hoists 2-year-old into the air at drive-thru safari park: "My heart stopped"

By Caitlin O'Kane

Updated on: June 5, 2024 / 8:52 PM EDT / CBS News

A Texas family went through a heart-dropping scare at a drive-thru safari park earlier this month when a giraffe reached into their pickup truck and grabbed their 2-year-old daughter, hoisting her in the air. 

The incident happened at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose, Texas, where visitors drive through a trail with animals like cheetahs, emus, zebras and wildebeests, with the opportunity to feed them from their cars.

"We stopped to feed the giraffes and I turned around to look out the back window," Jason Toten told CBS affiliate KWTX . "That's when I saw the giraffe kind of digging around, and then it just grabbed her."

The giraffe grabbed his 2-year-old daughter, Paisley, by her shirt from the back of their pickup. The giraffe hoisted her a few feet in the air and her mom, who was in the pickup bed with her, shouted at the giraffe, prompting the animal to let go. 

The incident was captured on camera by the people in the car behind them, who sent it to the family. 

Toten said it appeared to be an accident and that the family  didn't break park rules , which include keeping car doors closed, feeding animals with cups — not your hands — and keeping 50 feet away from gates.

"Paisley was holding the bag and the giraffe went to go get the bag, not get her, but ended up getting her shirt too and picking her up," he said. 

"My heart stopped, my stomach dropped… it scared me," he said.

The incident didn't deter the family — Toten said they'd visit again. And Paisley got a stuffed giraffe from the souvenir shop after the rough ride.

Caitlin O'Kane is a New York City journalist who works on the CBS News social media team as a senior manager of content and production. She writes about a variety of topics and produces "The Uplift," CBS News' streaming show that focuses on good news.

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A Journey Through Wild: An Insider's Guide to Florida's Drive-Thru Safari Park

Pack up your bags and buckle up – it’s time for a wild adventure like no other at Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari Park. Experience over 150 wild animals right from the comfort of your own car. Whether you’re a wildlife lover or just looking for a fun family outing, Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari gives you a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with animals from around the world.

Planning Your Visit

To make the most of your trip, the best times to visit are either right at opening or closer to closing times. That way, you can skip that mid-day heat and see the safari animals when they're most likely to come out from the shade. Some animals are also more active at different times of the day, making each safari drive unique!

Arriving at the Drive-Thru Safari Park

Just a short drive from Orlando’s biggest attractions, Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari transports you to a breathtaking terrain. Rolling into 170 acres of untouched landscapes, you'll find it hard to believe you're still in the same state. 

The entrance is clearly marked, and friendly staff will provide you with your group's ticket wristbands. You’ll also receive a pamphlet of what animals you might see on your wild encounter. Once you’re set, you can drive on through the gate to your safari adventure.

What Safari Animals Will I See?

Wild Florida boasts a stunning collection of wildlife featuring over 150 native and exotic animals from various corners of the globe. You’ll see North American fauna like elk, white-tailed deer, and American bison. Be sure to look around the water edges, where you might spot alligators basking in the sun.

But the surprises don’t stop there. Driving around transports you to an African safari, where you can spot stunning safari animals, including zebras, ostriches, giraffes, and more. 

Each safari offers a unique animal encounter experience. Sometimes, you'll enjoy lazy gazes from the wildlife. Other times, you might run into a traffic jam from curious creatures approaching your car. Remember to keep your windows up and drive slowly to truly appreciate those wildlife views. 

How Long is Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari?

The Drive-Thru Safari is designed to be a leisurely experience, typically taking up to an hour and a half to complete. But it all depends on your pace! Visitors have the option of choosing the shorter path that takes about 30 to 45 minutes. 

The speed limit is five miles per hour or less, allowing ample time to observe the wild animals closely. You have complete freedom to pause and appreciate the scenic views, so take your time. After all, it’s not every day you get to enjoy a drive while a zebra checks out your car! 

Insider Tips 

Unlimited Entry: Take advantage of unlimited entry! With one day’s admission, you can visit the Drive-Thru Safari Park as many times as you like. This is perfect for those who want to revisit their favorite safari animals or catch sightings they might have missed earlier in the day.

Gator Park Free Entry: Stretch your legs after a long drive and head to Wild Florida’s Gator Park , free with your Drive-thru Safari Park ticket. Here, you can get up close and personal with alligators, sloths, and other critters through Wild Florida’s exciting animal encounters . The Gator Park is home to a wide range of native and exotic animals, offering plenty of opportunities to explore and learn.

Giraffe Feedings: As you finish your safari ride, don’t miss out on stopping by the Giraffe Feeding Platform located at the exit. This unique opportunity allows you to get up close with these majestic creatures and capture memorable photos to remember your trip. 

Ready to embark on this wild journey? Join us at Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari Park for an unforgettable adventure where you can experience the untamed. See you there!

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Meet wild animals face-to-face in the Drive-Thru Safari adventure

BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) - This segment on The Three was paid for and sponsored by Aggieland Wild Animal Safari.

You can meet hundreds of animals from the comfort of your own vehicle when you participate in the Drive-Thru Safari!

The Drive-Thru Safari adventure is a 2.5-mile ride that allows you to come face-to-face with more than 75 species of animals, including American Bison, Watusi, Emus, Ostrich, Zebras, and hundreds of others.

Take your time! The Drive-Thru Safari lets you tour the park at your own pace.

You have a few options when it comes to the Drive-Thru.

You are more than welcome to remain in your own vehicle. Most people do! But know that the animals will get extremely close, especially if you feed them! Wild Animal Safari™ is not responsible for any damage to vehicles.

Animal diets are specific and important. You may feed animals, but only from park purchased feed.

If you don’t want to drive your own car, drive one of the Safari Vehicles through the Drive-Thru Safari park for one hour. The Safari SUV holds up 5 passengers. Anyone who wishes to drive one of our Safari Rental Vehicles must be at least 21 years of age and be a licensed driver. They must also have a valid insurance card at the time of rental.

For more fun, you can hop aboard one of the guided tours and learn about the animals who make their homes in our park. If you have a party of at least 20 people, book a private tour bus in advance.

Tour buses have an experienced Safari Tour Guide giving all riders a fun-filled behind the scenes experience.

The bus tour is first-come-first-serve and lasts for about an hour.

The bus tours do not operate year-round, so check the calendar and plan your trip in advance.

Aggieland Wild Animal Safari opens 9am and closes at 5pm. The last car for the Drive Thru will be admitted at at 4pm.

Copyright 2024 KBTX. All rights reserved.

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The 10 Best Drive Thru Safaris in the United States

If your budget isn't up to an African safari , don't panic. There are plenty of places closer to home where you can enjoy an animal encounter without blowing your life savings. If you want to watch cheetahs and tigers, giraffes and elephants from the comfort (and safety!) of your car, check out our guide to the 10 best drive-thru safaris in the United States.

10. Disney's Animal Kingdom, Florida

You don't have to love Disney to get a kick out of Disney's Animal Kingdom , but you do have to love animals - with over 34 species calling the park home, you're going to see a lot of them on your whistlestop, 18-minute drive through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. Expect to see elephants, rhinos, crocodiles, cheetahs, hippopotamus, giraffes, lions, hyenas, zebras, and more.

9. Rocky Mountain Arsenal, Colorado

Drive just a little outside of Denver and you'll find Rocky Mountain Arsenal. Perfect for animal lovers looking to escape the city and indulge in some wild adventures, the drive-thru experience will take you through 15,000-acres of habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for bison, deer, bald eagles, and more besides. The tour takes around 45 minutes to complete, but there's so much to see, most people end up circling back around for a few extra goes.

8. Bearizona Wildlife Park, Arizona

If you want to take a drive on the wild side of life, take the advice of Mommy Nearest and head for Bearizona Wildlife Park. The three-mile-long experience passes by some of North America's most popular native species, including bison, black bears, and wolves. The animals tend to be most active in the morning and late afternoon, so try to time your visit around those times. Just be aware that, for obvious reasons, the park discourages people from cruising along in a convertible. Unless you want to be someone's lunch, make sure that whatever car you drive is fully enclosed.

7. Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour, South Dakota

Did you know that American Buffalo can run at speeds of 40 miles per hour? If you don't believe it, check it out for yourself by heading to Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour in Custer State Park. Recommended by Fodors Travel Guide as one of the best safaris in the U.S., the site boasts 71000 acres peppered with buffalo, prairie dogs, pronghorns, and elk. As to how you tackle the drive-thru, you've got one of two options: drive your own car through the self-drive 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road or park up and hop aboard an open-air jeep for a guided tour.

6. Lion Country Safari, Florida

The Palm Beaches in Florida isn't short on attractions, but the Lion Country Safari ranks as the largest and quite possibly the best. Established in 1967 as the very first drive-thru safari park in the United States, the park is home to over 1000 animals from six different continents, many of which can be seen on the 4-mile drive-thru preserve. Those that can't be seen on the drive-thru can be encountered in the walk-thru habitats. Expect to see lions, chimpanzees, white rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and more besides. Once you've finished your drive, you'll find plenty of other things to enjoy, including boat rides, miniature golf, carnival rides, and water attractions.

5. Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari Park, Georgia

Named by studenttravelplanningguide.com as one of the best safari parks in the US, Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari Park offers visitors the chance to encounter over 120 species of animals, including parrots, peacocks, lemurs, lizards, wolves, and wallabies. The 3.5-mile drive-thru can either be made in your own vehicle or, if you prefer, you can rent a van or a bus directly from the park. Once you've finished the drive-thru section of the experience, head for the stroll-friendly area, where you'll get the chance to pet and feed some of the park's smallest and friendliest members.

4. African Safari Wildlife Park, Ohio

Located around two hours from Cleveland and Columbus in Ohio, the African Safari Wildlife Park is a great place to encounter some of the state's wildest residents. On the drive-thru section, you'll pass through fields of bison, Bactrian camels, and Scottish Highland cattle. If you're visiting during the summer months, be sure to check out the white-handed gibbons and warthogs playing in the stroll-friendly area. Other must-do activities include watching the pigs race at the somewhat insensitively named Pork Chops Down and checking out some of the park’s seasonal educational animal shows.

3. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, Texas

Occupying 400 acres of land in between San Antonia and New Braunfels, Texas, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch premises an exciting day full of animals, adventure, and activities. The drive-thru will take you through fields filled with Japanese sika, eland, and Damaraland zebra, most of whom will come running the moment you rattle the bucket of tasty eats provided with your admission. Other key attractions include a walk-about section where visitors can meet a pair of rare twin reticulated giraffes and watch the lemurs play in their enclosure, along with a petting barn with pygmy goats and llamas.

2. Wildlife Safari, Oregon

Along with boasting one of the most successful cheetah breeding programs in the U.S, the Wildlife Safari in Oregon is home to a huge variety of animals, including African elephants, hippopotamuses, American alligators, and Tibetan yaks. The drive-thru section is thrilling enough, but it's worth stumping up the extra fee to get up close and personal with your favorites at one of the various animal encounters. You can ride a camel, walk with cheetahs, or even enjoy some wine and art with George, Alice, and Tava, the park's very friendly and very cultured resident elephants.

1. Virginia Safari Park, Virginia

Virginia Safari Park is a drive-thru safari in Natural Bridge, Virginia that offers animal lovers a great day of adventure. Its three-mile self-drive safari offers visitors the chance to see the elk and deer that roam its 180-acre ground. The animals are allowed to roam freely and act without any interference, so expect to see males fighting for breeding rights and even live births. Before you head out, you'll be offered a bucket of grain to feed the animals. You're free to drive through as many times as you like, but be sure to leave plenty of time to enjoy the park's other attractions, which include a petting zoo, giraffe feeding, and the opportunity to see tigers, penguins, and kangaroos on the walk-thru safari.

Written by  Dana Hanson

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African Safari

Take a ride on the wild side... the Adirondacks only African Safari Drive-Thru and experience over 100 animals eye-to-eye...with amazing close encounters!  If you enjoyed our original safari ride you will love our new drive-thru!! We have doubled the size and added new animals! Drive thru at your own pace, look for new babies being born, visit with your favorites!

‘Wheel of Fortune’: Vanna White bids an emotional goodbye to Pat Sajak

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Ahead of Pat Sajak’s final episode as the host of “Wheel of Fortune,” Vanna White paid an emotional tribute to her co-host of more than 40 years.

On Thursday’s episode of the beloved game show, White honored Sajak’s work and their friendship with a video segment that featured clips and photos tracing their collaboration from the 1980s to the present.

“As this chapter of our lives is coming to an end, I know you’ll still be close by. You’re like a brother to me and I consider you a true lifelong friend who I will always adore,” she said. “I love you, Pat.”

White said that while their long-running work collaboration has been significant to her — noting that he made her feel “so comfortable and so confident” when she started — she said their personal friendship has meant much more.

“As much fun as we had on camera, those memories, milestones and life events we shared with our families, outside the studio, are my favorite,” she said, seeming to hold back tears. “We’ve watched our children grow up together, we’ve traveled all over the world, we’ve eaten hundreds of meals together. We’ve laughed, we’ve cried, we’ve celebrated.”

After the prerecorded video segment ended, Sajak and White shared a hug on stage.

Sajak and White have been one of television’s most iconic duos since they started working on “Wheel of Fortune” together in 1982, when the show first aired in syndication. They have appeared in over 8,000 episodes together, with Sajak leading the contestants through the game and White famously turning the letters on the puzzle board.

Sajak announced his retirement in June 2023, making the 41st season of the show his last. White extended her contract in September through the 2025-2026 season and will help shepherd Sajak’s replacement, Ryan Seacrest, through his first two seasons at the helm.

When Seacrest was announced as Sajak’s successor, Seacrest said in a statement he was “truly humbled” to take over.

“I can say, along with the rest of America, that it’s been a privilege and pure joy to watch Pat and Vanna on our television screens for an unprecedented 40 years, making us smile every night and feel right at home with them,” Seacrest said.

Sajak’s final episode will air Friday.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

• Refuge Hours: Sunrise to sunset seven days a week . 
• Visitor Center Hours: Wednesday through Sunday 9am - 4pm (closed Monday, Tuesday, and federal holidays).
• America the Beautiful passes (annual pass, senior lifetime pass, military pass, etc.): Schedule an appointment by calling 303-289-0930. Pass sales are by cash or check only. 
• Visit the Events page for free nature programs. Upcoming program: Bird Hike June 7 at 8:00 am
• Temporary Trail Closure: First Creek Trail remains closed do to wildlife management and to repair the trail from storm damage.
• Archery Range will be temporarily closed Friday, June 6 and Sunday, June 9 from 8 am - Noon to mow and replace targets.
• Check out the Refuge Rules and Policies  page to recreate responsibly.

The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is one of the largest urban refuges in the country. It is a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of busy urban life where time moves at nature's pace. With its expansive views, wildlife viewing opportunities, and recreation activities, it's easy to take a nature escape! The Refuge is open sunrise to sunset daily and closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Visiting the Refuge is free! 

Activities 

• 20 miles of easy hiking trails.
• Bicycle on select trails.
• Drive the 11-mile Wildlife Drive auto tour while listening to the Refuge podcast . The Wildlife Drive is open.
• Free nature programs .
• Wildlife viewing.
• Junior Ranger program.
• Fish seasonally at Lake Mary and Lake Ladora for a small fee.
• Photograph wildlife and landscapes.
• Practice your archery skills at the archery range.
• Explore the Visitor Center, which includes exhibits, wildlife activities, and Nature's Nest Books and Gifts.

View the Refuge Wildlife Drive and Trails Map - English , Spanish  

Know Before You Go: Check out the Refuge Rules and Policies page to recreate responsibly. Remember to stay on the trails, no swimming or wading at Refuge lakes, only service dogs are allowed at the Refuge, bicycles and Class 1 e-bikes are permitted on the Greenway Trail and trails south of 64th Avenue, park in designated parking lots, and visitors must stay in their vehicle when viewing bison.

Location and Contact Information

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge was established in 2004, in part, to protect our national symbol, the bald eagle. The land has a unique story - it has survived the test of time and transitioned from farmland, to war-time manufacturing site, to wildlife sanctuary. It may be one of the finest conservation success stories and a place where wildlife thrives. 

One of the best ways to experience this 15,000 acre Refuge is by taking the 11-mile Wildlife Drive auto tour in your vehicle. Listen to the podcast , which corresponds with each mile marker along the way to discover more about the Refuge and its wildlife. The Wildlife Drive takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete and is free. 

The Wildlife Drive is open.

Know Before You Go

• The Wildlife Drive is open to motorized vehicles; speed limit is 30 mph.
• Follow the directional symbols. Park vehicles only in designated areas on map.
• Stay on paved roads and observe all posted signs such as "Stay in Vehicle" or "Area Closed".
• Stay in your vehicle when the road becomes one way only.
• Always stay at least 75 feet (23 meters) away from bison.
• Be sure to view the Wildlife Drive and Trails Map - English , Spanish  for map and details.
• For winter snowstorms, the Refuge may delay opening to plow the roads.

Wildlife conservation is at the heart of the National Wildlife Refuge System. It drives everything on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lands and waters managed within the Refuge System, from the purposes for which a national wildlife refuge national wildlife refuge A national wildlife refuge is typically a contiguous area of land and water managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service  for the conservation and, where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans. Learn more about national wildlife refuge is established to the recreational activities offered to the resource management tools used. Using conservation best practices, the Refuge System manages Service lands and waters to help ensure the survival of native wildlife species.   

At Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge we are working for wildlife to continuously ensure that our natural resources are conserved for current and future generations to enjoy.

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Frightening moment toddler is snatched by giraffe out of Texas drive-thru safari car as desperate mom holds on to girl

• Elizabeta Ranxburgaj , Freelance U.S. News Reporter
• Published : 8:37, 6 Jun 2024
• Updated : 13:23, 6 Jun 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

THE terrifying moment a toddler was snatched out of her family's car by a giraffe has been captured.

This incident took place with Paisley, 2, during a drive-thru safari experience in Texas on June 1.

Paisley's parents, Jason Toten and his fiancé Sierra Robert, visited the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose, around 70 miles southwest of Dallas.

This center allows visitors to feed the wild animals as they drive through the park.

The couple, with their children, were traveling through in a pickup truck, as Paisley and her mum sat in the uncovered bed of the vehicle.

Jason, 24, and Sierra, 23, had told the toddler to feed the giraffe by putting out her hand that had some food on it.

Paisley was suddenly snatched out of the vehicle when the animal unexpectedly reached into the car and picked her up by her t-shirt.

The two-year-old was then lifted into the air as onlookers watched in disbelief.

This scary moment was captured on video by the family and another safari visitor behind them.

"My heart stopped," Jason told What's The Jam .

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The father explained that the giraffe had not grabbed his daughter maliciously and it was rather an innocent mistake.

“When we got to the giraffe, they ate all the food we had and then went to take the bag of food and it accidentally grabbed Paisley’s shirt and picked her up," he said.

Paisley's mom recalled saying a firm "hey" to the animal as she reached out for her daughter.

The toddler was quickly dropped back into the truck when the giraffe realized its mistake and the mum swiftly grabbed her daughter to pull her back down.

Paisley was not harmed during the ordeal.

The brave toddler was rather unphased by the incident, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram .

My heart stopped." Jason Toten Paisley's father

“I guess it startled the giraffe,” Jason said.

"She wasn't even scared," he added.

"As soon as her mom caught her, she went 'oh.'"

“It scared me but after it was all over, we realized everyone was safe and unharmed, and we laughed about it," Jason said.

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Her parents revealed that the toddler had surprisingly not been left shaken by the incident even after they were done with their safari tour.

“All Paisley wanted after that was a toy giraffe and giraffe T-shirt from the gift shop, so we got them for her and we will definitely be revisiting in the future!” he added.

• Children parenting and family life

‘It just grabbed her’: Giraffe picks up toddler during family trip to drive-thru safari

GLEN ROSE, Texas ( KWTX /Gray News) - A family in Texas says they went through quite the scare when recently visiting a wildlife center.

According to the Toten family, a giraffe accidentally picked their toddler up out of the bed of their truck when they were visiting the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center on June 1.

KWTX reports that park visitors get to drive themselves along a path where exotic and endangered animals roam free at the center.

Visitors are also allowed to feed the animals.

The family said Paisley, 2, was in the back of the pickup truck with her mom feeding the animals when the giraffe grabbed her shirt and lifted the little girl into the air.

Paisley’s father, Jason Toten, said the incident was caught on video by a car behind them.

“We stopped to feed the giraffes and I turned around to look out the back window,” he said. “That’s when I saw the giraffe kind of digging around and then it just grabbed her.”

According to the Toten family, it appeared to be a complete accident and they didn’t break any rules.

“Paisley was holding the bag, and the giraffe went to go get the bag, not her, but it ended up getting her shirt too and picked her up,” Toten said.

Thankfully, Paisley didn’t get too high up before the giraffe dropped her.

“As soon as she went up, her mom yelled, ‘Hey!’ and the giraffe let go,” Toten said.

Paisley’s father said she ended up falling into her mother’s arms without anyone getting hurt, but it still was a scary moment.

“My heart stopped, my stomach dropped … it scared me,” Toten said.

Afterward, Toten said they went to the gift shop and got Paisley a toy giraffe because “she deserved it.”

The family said they do plan on returning to the park in the future.

According to the wildlife center, visitors are allowed to ride in the bed of a truck if an adult is riding in the back with them and everyone is safely inside the vehicle.

Copyright 2024 KWTX via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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The Family Vacation Guide

12 of the Best Drive Thru Zoos & Safaris in the US

posted by Charmaine Cortes on December 23, 2022 // last updated on June 12, 2023

To get a one-of-a-lifetime safari experience, you do not have to travel long distances or go overseas. There are plenty of drive-thru zoos in the US that enable you to encounter exotic species from the safety and comfort of your own car.

If you are an adventurer looking forward to experiencing wildlife, here are our recommendations for the best drive-thru zoos, safaris, and wildlife preserves to have an exciting road trip. 

African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio

Wildlife safari in oregon, bearizona wildlife park in arizona, phoenix zoo in phoenix, pine mountain wild animal safari park in georgia, custer state park resort in south dakota, lion country safari in loxahatchee, florida, lee richardson zoo in garden city, kansas, natural bridge wildlife ranch in san antonio, texas, southwick’s zoo in madison, massachusetts, arbuckle wilderness park in davis, oklahoma, safari lake geneva in lake geneva, wisconsin.

From alpacas, emus, llamas, zebras, and giraffes to fallow deer, white bison, and a variety of wild birds, visiting the African Safari Wildlife Park can be an unforgettable experience. This drive-thru safari is home to a lot of unique species and puts animal safety and health as its top priority. 

Here, you will also come across many species of wildflowers and plants. The safari offers various activities, including a walk-thru safari in spring, giraffe encounters, a safari cafe, and gem mining. It provides an adventurous experience and enables visitors to get up close and personal with hundreds of animals from around the world. 

Website: www.africansafariwildlifepark.com

Cost: Ticket prices range from $14.95 to $29.95; free for children of 2 and under

Note: While the African Safari Wildlife is open the whole year around, there are certain animals you can only view during the warm months, which is something to consider when going. 

In the Wildlife Safari in Oregon, you can come across a variety of species, including Tibetan Yanks, camels, African elephants, hippopotamuses, and American alligators. The accredited safari has one of the most successful cheetah breeding programs in the US, which you can support with donations.

Hop on the safari tour vehicle and meet and feed one of the most adorable animals, like red pandas or get closer to the king of the jungle and head to the elephant barn to meet with these animals and take a photo. The Wildlife Safari in Oregon offers a lot of activities and safari events. 

The Safari includes bused or open-air adventures through the park’s drive-thru, which is very exciting, but you can also sign up for activities such as hippo encounters, tiger feed, walking with cheetahs, and more. 

Website: www.wildlifesafari.net

Cost: Drive-thru safari tickets range from $17.95 to $23.95 

Note: This is an excellent 60-90 minutes experience for families. The tour features diverse wildlife from the US, Africa, and Asia. 

The Bearizona Wildlife Park provides a natural, spacious environment. The visitors drive through the largest ponderosa pine forest and view various animals in their natural habitats from their own private vehicles. 

Jump on the Wild Ride bus with their tour guides and get familiar with each animal that you encounter along this 3-mile safari. During your drive, you can also get off the bus for a unique backstage experience and view the wolf training sessions.

On this journey, you can witness a broad range of animals, such as black bears, Alaskan tundra wolves, reindeer, arctic wolves, mule deer, and so much more. The mission of the zoo is to promote the preservation through educational encounters of North American wildlife. 

Website: www.bearizona.com

Cost: Ticket prices range from $20 to $50; free for children of 3 and under

Note: Aside from the exciting drive-thru, you can also scroll through the park, enjoy unique animal encounters and dine in their themed restaurant. 

The Phoenix Zoo cares for more than 3,000 animals, including endangered species. Their guided drive-thru tours cover a wide range of animals, which makes it a thrilling experience. There are also plenty of fun daily activities happening in the zoo, including camel rides, giraffe encounters, and others. 

During the tour, you will drive past the main areas of the zoo, including the Africa Trail, where there are rhinos and zebras, and the Tropics Trail, where you will witness elephants and tigers roaming around. 

The Arizona Center for Nature Conservation also features discovery tours, backstage and premium adventures, as well as custom guided tours. Among the animals you can come across at this zoo are Asian elephants, coyotes, Mexican grey wolves, white-faced Saki monkeys, cheetahs, flamingos, and more. 

Website: www.phoenixzoo.org

Cost: $65 per vehicle 

Note: The number of vehicles per day is limited, so make sure to get tickets on time. 

Among the best drive-thru zoos in the US is the Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari Park in Georgia. The safari park allows visitors to encounter more than 120 species of animals, including lizards, wolves, ostriches, parrots, lemurs, and many others.

You will travel down a 2.5-mile trail and view a wide variety of animals along the way. To experience the excitement of the safari, you can use your own vehicle, rent one or get into a bus for a guide. 

Aside from seeing the wild animals, this drive-thru zoo enables horse riding adventures and exclusive animal encounters that allow you to interact with some of them. This is an animal-friendly park for visitors of all ages, where you will have a chance to meet some of the zoo’s friendliest animals. 

Website: www.animalsafari.com/georgia-park-home-about-us/

Cost: Adult (ages 13-64) – $29.00; junior (ages 3-12) – $24.00; senior (age 65+) – $24.00

Note: You can feed the animals with only park-purchased food. 

Go through the park in an open-air jeep or your own vehicle to look for prairie dogs, buffalos, elks, and pronghorns. The guided tour takes around two hours and features guides that share historical and educational stories about the wildlife and the park. The tours depart from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. every day and offer breathtaking views of nature. 

Website: www.custerresorts.com

Cost: Adults – $68; Children (under 12) – $58

Note: You need to make a reservation to get a drive-thru experience.

Despite the name, the Lion Country Safari is home to more than 1,000 animals. During the 4-mile-long drive-through, you can view animals from six different countries, such as lions, zebras, giraffes, white rhinos, chimpanzees, and more.

All of the animals roam in naturalistic habitats. The Lion Country Safari was the very first drive-thru safari park in the United States, as it was established in 1967. After you finish the drive-thru, you can also enjoy activities like boat rides, carnival rides, and water attractions.

Website: www.lioncountrysafari.com

Cost: $34-$45

Note: The safari preserve is divided into seven natural habitats you can visit. 

The Lee Richardson Zoo offers visitors a drive-thru of the park to view wild animals. The zoo is home to over 300 hundred native and exotic animals, including lions, alpacas, Amur leopards, camels, bison, bobcats, elk, giraffes, jaguars, sloth bears, and much more. Each animal is an ambassador of its counterparts, promoting the conservation of wild animals. 

Website: www.leerichardsonzoo.org

Cost: $10 per vehicle, pedestrian entry for free

Note: The Lee Richardson Zoo is open the whole year around 

Start your adventure with the 450-acre safari drive-thru in San Antonio, Texas. Here visitors can interact with animals and look at picturesque views that resemble safari in Africa. You can view over 40 species of animals from the comfort of your own vehicle and roam around the trees and the hills within the ranch.

The safari covers 6 miles and provides 1-2 hours of an incredible experience. You can also get a guided tour from animal specialists and feed the animals. During the guided tours, the visitors can learn more about the animals and come across ostriches, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and other animal species.

Website: www.wildliferanchtexas.com

Cost: Adults (12-64 years) – $28.99;  children (3-11 years) – $19.99;  seniors (65+years) – $25.99

Note: Check your map before the visit, as there are different routes to take.

Among the best drive-thru zoos in the US is Southwick’s Zoo which enables visitors to go on a self-driven tour of the 200-acre park. On such a 45-minute tour, you will come across various wild animals and download an audio tour as well. 

After the journey, the visitors can also order takeaway from the restaurant, go on rides and visit attractions, or book a giraffe, rhino, or sloth animal encounter. 

Website: www.southwickszoo.com

Cost: $60/car

Note: The guests should arrive 30 minutes before the selected tour time.

Go on a safari-like experience as you drive through 200 acres in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains and come across hundreds of exotic animals roaming free. This park is also a home for reptiles and is filled with diverse creatures from over five continents.

Llamas, giraffes, donkeys, camels, deers, yaks, zebras, and more; you can enjoy feeding animals from the comfort of your own vehicle. The Arbuckle Wilderness Park provides an exciting adventure for guests of all ages. 

Website: www.arbucklewildernesspark.com

Cost: Adults – $16.99; kids (4-11) – $14.99; senior citizens – $14.99

Note: The drive-thru safari is open every day. 

The wildlife preserve known as Safari Lake Geneva is home to animals from all around the world. You can drive through this safari park as many times as you want and view the variety of animals that are free to roam. 

Moreover, you can also purchase a bowl of grain and feed the animals as you come close to them. Here you can drive your own vehicle or rent a Zebra van if desired. You can opt for a solo trip or bring your whole family for a unique safari adventure. 

Website: www.safarilakegeneva.com

Cost: Adult (ages 16+) – $21.95; children (ages 3-15) – $14.95; infants (ages 2 and under) – free

Note: The giraffes may not be visible during unpleasant weather.

If you are on a hunt for drive-thru zoos and safaris for an unforgettable experience, you can choose the one that appeals to you the most from our list. The zoos are home to a wide number of animals which we often see on TV, and they also offer many activities for their visitors, including special animal encounters. 

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

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'No longer safe' | East Texas drive-thru safari closing permanently

A beloved East Texas animal attraction is closing its doors for good.

On Monday, Grapeland Safari announced it had permanently closed to the public. 

"We want to thank every single person that has ever visited and supported us," the safari said. "This decision did not come easy for us. Mother Nature has taken her toll on our pasture this year. It is no longer safe for people to drive through. There are huge ditches and holes that will cause damage to vehicles. If you want to visit our gift shop and purchase anything just let us know and we will be more than happy to make that happen. Everything is marked down 50% off. All items need to go. You can visit our petting area as well."

Grapeland Safari says they will only be open on Saturday and Sunday for the gift shop and petting area unless you call ahead. Their officials closing date is June 24.

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Britney spears hung out with ex-fiancé jason trawick on recent vegas trip, britney spears vegas reunion with ex-fiancé jason trawick.

Britney Spears has spent time reuniting with her nearest and dearest in recent years, and now you can add her ex-fiancé, and former co-conservator, Jason Trawick to that list ... TMZ has learned.

Sources with direct knowledge tell TMZ ... Britney got together with Jason during her trip to Las Vegas last week with her brother Bryan . We're told she and her bro are still tight with Jason, and they reached out to him to say they were going to be in town and would love to catch up.

Our sources also tell us Jason now lives in Vegas so the meet-up totally made sense -- and they wound up hanging out together, on at least one occasion, at Resorts World Las Vegas.

Jason was a huge rock in Britney's life during their romantic stint from 2009 to 2013. They got engaged in 2011, and even though they called it off ... we're told they've stayed cordial since the split.

We know what you're thinking, but there's nothing romantic going on between them right now -- we're told it's just friendly.

However, it's also true that some people close to Britney are cautiously optimistic about a possible romantic reunion in the future. To be clear, though, our sources stressed that's not where Brit and Jason's heads are right now.

Nonetheless, the Jason hang sounds like it was a nice bonus for Britney, who also documented her fun-filled Vegas spa session with her bro for IG.

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