Looking for a family day trip that’s both exciting and educational? Consider a visit to the Exotic Feline Rescue Center (EFRC) in Center Point, Indiana. This remarkable sanctuary allows parents and children to see lions, tigers, and other exotic felines in a safe and caring environment, providing a memorable and insightful experience for all ages.
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The EFRC is not a typical zoo; it is a true sanctuary. It provides a safe and loving forever home for over 100 majestic creatures, including lions, tigers, leopards, pumas, bobcats, servals, and even a few foxes. These animals are not performing; they live peacefully on a sprawling 200-acre property.
What to Expect During a Visit
Visitors can anticipate walking along gravel paths, surrounded by nature, and then catching sight of a magnificent tiger or a playful bobcat. This is the kind of experience the EFRC offers.
The center provides daily guided tours lasting approximately one hour. These tours offer an opportunity to learn the incredible stories behind the animals, many of whom were once ill-conceived “pets,” retired circus performers, or simply unwanted. The dedicated staff at the EFRC have given them a second chance, and visitors will hear heartwarming tales of rescue and rehabilitation.
Children are often captivated by the experience of seeing these powerful animals up close (safely behind enclosures). The guides are knowledgeable and share fascinating facts about each species, including their history, diet, behaviors, and instincts, making it an engaging and educational experience.
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Important Information for Families:
Planning a trip with young children requires consideration. Here is some helpful information for families visiting the EFRC:
- Tour Times & Prices: Tours are available every day at 10 am, 11:30 am, 1 pm, 2:30 pm, and 3:30 pm. Reservations are generally not needed for smaller families. Admission costs $10 for adults and $5 for children aged 12 and under.
- Comfortable Footwear is Essential: As the tours take place outdoors on gravel paths, it is important for everyone to wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Dress Appropriately for the Weather: Visitors should check the forecast and dress accordingly, as tours proceed rain or shine, although they may be delayed due to severe weather.
- Strollers & Wagons are Recommended: For families with toddlers or younger children, bringing a stroller or wagon can enhance the experience.
- Assistance is Available: The EFRC offers golf carts on a first-come, first-served basis for individuals who may need help getting around.
- Supervise Young Children: For safety reasons, children under 5 years old must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
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Beyond Entertainment: Education and Awareness:
The EFRC’s mission extends beyond providing a home for these animals. It aims to raise awareness about the challenges exotic felines face in captivity and in the wild. A visit offers a chance to discuss responsible pet ownership and the importance of conservation with children. The center also provides field trips for schools, highlighting its commitment to education.
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Plan a Visit:
The Exotic Feline Rescue Center is located at 2221 E Ashboro Rd in Center Point, IN, easily accessible for a day trip from Indianapolis. More information can be found on their website at efrc.org.
A visit to the Exotic Feline Rescue Center offers a family adventure that is both entertaining and educational. It provides an opportunity to see magnificent animals up close, learn their stories, and support an organization dedicated to their well-being. Families are encouraged to plan a visit for a memorable and impactful experience.
Field Trips to the Exotic Feline Rescue Center
The EFRC proudly offers educational tours for students of all grades. To book an unforgettable field trip, simply call 812-835-1130 during weekdays between 10 am and 5 pm.
These field trips aim to raise awareness about the challenges faced by endangered cats in captivity and their natural habitats. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe several species of cats, including lions, tigers, pumas, leopards, bobcats, and servals. These magnificent animals roam freely within their spacious enclosures, which span across the 20-acre tour area.
Participants will learn fascinating facts about these magnificent felines, including their history, veterinary care, dietary requirements, likes, dislikes, and instinctive behavior. The Exotic Feline Rescue Center’s knowledgeable staff ensures an engaging and educational experience for everyone.
[…] The Exotic Feline Rescue Center (EFRC) is a non-profit group devoted to the rescue, care and conservation of unique felines. Based within the early 1990’s, the EFRC has served as a rescue middle and perpetually residence to many unique felines which were abused, undesirable, or uncared for. The EFRC cares for over 100 cats and 6 foxes on its 200-acre property positioned in Heart Level, IN. […]
[…] E Ashboro Rd in Center Point, IN Distance from Indianapolis: 1 hourThe Exotic Feline Rescue Center (EFRC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, care and conservation of exotic felines. […]