2024 Best of Lake Erie: Safari
It's a battle of Lake Erie! Which will you choose — Hidden Valley Animal Adventure or African Safari Wildlife Park?
Hidden Valley Animal Adventure
Layout & Location: 63 acres of rolling hills and a large pond
in Varysburg, New York
The Animals: More than 350 animals representing 42 species, including exotic animals like zebras, camels, llamas, alpacas, ostriches, bison, nilgai and water buffalo; and small farm animals such as goats, sheep, pigs and rabbits
The Experience: Guided safari bus tours with knowledgeable guides sharing facts and stories about the animals, self-drive tours allowing visitors to drive at their own pace and purchase feed for animal interactions, and a walk-through petting zoo.
Extras: A trailside grill, creamery, gift shop selling souvenirs and animal-themed items, and a lodge for overnight stays
Layout & Location: 65 acres of grasslands and wetlands
in Port Clinton, Ohio
The Animals: More than 400 animals representing dozens of species, from camels, deer, bison, bongos, zebras, emu, antelope and giraffes to exotic birds, tortoises, lemurs, gibbons, kangaroos, warthogs and an albino American alligator
The Experience: Self-drive journey through open habitats with ability to purchase animal feed; walk-through area with primates, reptiles, smaller animals and 20 roaring, life-sized prehistoric dinosaurs; camel rides; and special giraffe, capybara and sloth encounters
Extras: A gift shop, snack bar, safari cafe, educational programming, special events and seasonal attractions
