Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo is a wildlife park, home to a wide variety of animals from all over the world. From kangaroos and wallabies to emus and camels, there is no shortage of fascinating creatures to observe and interact with. Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities and exhibits — making for a truly unforgettable experience.

Get to the Kangaroo Feeding Area Early

There aren’t many places in the nation that allow visitors to get as close and personal to kangaroos as they do at Kentucky Down Under. The kangaroo habitat is a place where humans, kangaroos and emus all get along. Kangaroos are nocturnal and active at night and early morning. They usually start taking their naps around 11 am. And while, they are still approachable during naptime, we found the kangaroos to be most active right after the zoo opens. You will fall in love with them, so go ahead and plan to order the largest food cup. A 16-ounce cup is $10. 

Take Time for the Animal Show 

Attend one of the hands-on animal shows, where you can get up close and interact with different animals. They’re informative and fun. During our visit, a male peacock started the crowd by fanning his spectacular tail feathers before meet-and-greets with a Woma python, an African Serval kitten, and an African spurred tortoise. 

Opt for the Golf Cart

The property spans over 1,000 hilly acres, so the best way to get around is by renting a golf cart for your visit. Renting a golf cart also allows you to customize your itinerary and visit the attractions at your own pace. You can spend more time at your favorite exhibits or attractions without worrying about getting tired or losing time.

Visit the Bird Aviary 

Visitors have the opportunity to hand-feed colorful and exotic birds in the park’s Bird Aviary. This interactive activity is a favorite among families, as it allows for up-close and personal interactions with some of the park’s most beautiful and fascinating creatures. Inside the Bird Aviary, visitors will find a variety of birds from around the world, including lorikeets, cockatiels, and parakeets. These birds are not shy and are happy to land on visitors’ hands and arms to enjoy a tasty treat. The park provides specially formulated food that is safe for the birds to eat, and visitors can purchase small cups of this food for a nominal fee. Visitors can learn about the different species of birds and their unique behaviors, while also getting a chance to observe them up close. It’s a great opportunity for children to learn about the importance of conservation and the role that humans can play in protecting these beautiful creatures.

Explore the Mammoth Onyx Cave

Known as the Mammoth Onyx Cave, it is a limestone cave that was discovered in the 1920s and opened for public tours in the 1960s. The cave tour is an unforgettable experience that takes visitors deep underground to explore the many stunning formations created over millions of years. Visitors can expect to see a variety of features, including stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and cave popcorn. The cave’s passageways are dimly lit, adding to the sense of adventure and exploration.

Do Some Gem Mining

The gem mining station is located near the Onyx Cave entrance (across from the gift shop), and visitors can purchase bags of rough mix containing a variety of gemstones and minerals such as amethyst, emerald, and pyrite. These bags are then taken to the mining sluice, where visitors can sift through the rough mix and uncover the hidden treasures within.

Take a Picnic Break

After a day of exploring and learning, visitors can relax and enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful outdoor setting. Stock up on meals and snacks at Farmwald’s Restaurant & Dutch Bakery – adjacent to the parking lot at Kentucky Down Under.

Overall, Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo is a must-do activity for families visiting the Mammoth Cave area. With its range of activities and exhibits, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this hidden gem in the heart of Kentucky!