The animals all seem very relaxed and happy, it is a 3 mile walk but you don't notice it. We saw baby birds hatching because the birds make nest behind the trash cans on the walk way. They do seem to have a spider infestation in the main building though, be careful there they get into everything.
Not sure all the animals had water. How can this be a natural habit for lions and tigers considering lions r from Africa and tigers r from Asia. Tigers r solitary animal who only get together for breeding . But from what theses animals came from this is much better. The staff was very nice. Its good to follow all the websites suggestions . It is nice that they have lots of room.
Great cause, filled with knowledgeable staff, where each and every one is helpful and happy to be there. Best way to spend time outside, see amazing animals, and be helping while being there, shop, eat and donate.
Fantastic. Beautiful. My 21 month old daughter loved it. Very safe.
Absolutely lovely experience. It's a true sanctuary that deeply cares for these majestic creatures. You watch an informative video and there are guides along the way that are extremely helpful. The animals are really amazing. I suggest going in the evening, we got there at 4pm and stayed until closing. The animals are active and you can hear the lions roar. It's definitely worth the ticket price, and just imagine how much it costs to feed each animal and make certain they can live the rest of their lives in comfort. This was my second visit, my husband's third and grandma's 5th or so. It never gets old and they're constantly updating and rescuing new animals. They also support a refuge that's not open to the public. Furthermore, its handicap accessible, I pushed grandma just fine the entire way.
$30 to get in plus a donation! They may treat animals right but not us humans!
Also don't bring your service dog here!
I have been going there since about 2006 or so. Every time I go it gets bigger and better.
Wonderful place to take anyone, young or old. Friendly staff who really know their stuff.
I just can't believe how many tigers they have. I think it's over 50 now. This place is not a zoo, with animals in small cages. This place is big and set up for the benefit of the animals.
Animals are well cared for. Knowledgeable and caring staff as well. Well worth the price to get in. Highly recommend it!
This place is simply beautiful! I didn't believe I'd see Lions, Tigers and Bears!!! Ohhhhhh my!!! I did though .
Absolutely beautiful. Went there with my 3 yr old son and he was fascinated by all the animals. It was great seeing them up close from above and with the ability to roam around and play with each other. This place's conservation efforts are beyond compassionate and all staff members were great throughout our experience. We were able to see some wolves playing together and some tigers hanging out, being big kitties. Please visit this awesome place, contribute to their cause, and take care of our planet.
This place is amazing! You walk on this bridge above the habitats. The habitats are really big and open. If you're an animal lover you must check this place out. All the animals have been rescued from bad situations and places. Highly recommend!!
This Is my favorite place on the planet. Pat and his family and team have turned this into the most amazing sanctuary for wild animals that have lived under horrible conditions and abuse. This is a must visit. It is not a zoo,but a place for animals to feel as close to the wild as possible. Support is always needed to keep these souls healthy and happy.
This was a fantastic experience. Employees were friendly and educational. This place deserves so much more recognition. They do such great work of taking care of the animals. Would 100% recommend! Please donate as well, such a great cause. thank you Wild Animal Sanctuary for every you do!!!!
It's ok, I visited bear country in SD. & was impressed as we were able to drive through the facility and view the bears walking by our car plus see the other animals! We then went around & saw babies!!
$50.00 is a lot to pay especially since we're on a fixed income...$100.00 for my husband & I, so we won't be taking our grandchildren to view this sanctuary...so sad
The place is wonderful. But I would really like to say thank you to that wonderful girl in the pizza snack bar. You saved my life. I had an unknown allergic reaction to my medication. I got very over heated. You gave me ice and put peppermint oil on me. My doctor said that I could have died. So thank you so very much.
A wonderful concept to allow rescued wild animals to live out their lives in a natural environment. Better to go in the morning or after 3PM.
Visit was great, facility was clean, staff was friendly and habitats were pleasant.
The owner of this establishment is well known in Colorado as being very eccentric. While I applaud his dedication to rescuing these animals I wonder why did he spend the money building a walkway if he's openly hostile to people visiting? No it's not a zoo, but why open it to the public and charge huge fees? We visited in the summer and frankly the place is depressing and NOT a place for kids or really any visitors. The animals are in these fenced-off pens with dead grass and on the prairie there is very little shade that offers refuge in the scorching summer sun. So I wonder what quality of life do these animals even have? The animals looked dejected and just laid there the entire time. I think the location is terrible as there needs to be more trees. There is nothing for people so you walk in the intense sun for miles to maybe get a peek at a tired animal.The owner should shut down having visitors and just get donations from animal lovers. Oh, and quit sending out an expensive magazine/catalog every few months. I'm sure that is not cheap. Save that money to pay for the refuge.
an awesome experience in a place where the animals are treated great.
I have to say the Wild Animal Sanctuary is a "must see" for anyone planning to visit Colorado. Helpful and informative staff. Great photo opportunities without fences or cages. Spacious, well maintained enclosures. An educational opportunity for anyone who is interested in learning about wildlife. After hearing the various stories of the animals past plights, I was happy to leave knowing they are in a place where they are loved and cared for. Well done!
There were lots of animals out and about. Plus I love animals.
Lots of animals out,great weather!!all the staff was great!!impressed with the cleanliness of such a big facility!great job!!
Don't go after 2:00 PM in Winters animals go to sleep
Love the sanctuary. Some of the reviews on here seem to complain about either not being able to see anything (they have little designated sight viewers a few places on the walkway, so I know that isn t true) and the price of admission. Those admission fees are absolutely needed to keep this place even open to the public. It is not a zoo, it s a sanctuary that exists for educational purposes. There are ways to donate (becoming an active supporter) that make it so that they can visit it anytime they want and their donation goes straight to the animals.
Very cool way to see amazing animals... very well done!
It us wonderful to see animals have room to run and enjoy life. Very different from zoo
Great place to check out for animal lovers. Very nice facility and experience. Knowledgeable and friendly staff. Great thing they are doing for the animals! Definitely worth the drive!
awesome facility and want to continue to contribute to this noble effort - suggest letting visitors view the video prior to taking their "contribution" as I would have given more if I'd known more about the efforts to save these animals prior to being queued to a booth for my entry fee/contribution.
One of the most amazing places we visited on our trip. 7000 acres of wild animals kept away from humans who have put them in cages forever is something to see. The volunteers were amazing and so helpful and friendly. This place is worth the drive! So nice!!
it was very fun and educational, the animals whre happy, and the staff where nice.
At first it was to sunny and hot, but when the clouds came out so did some of the wildlife. It was a great experience!
Such an amazing place! Each animal has an incredible survival story. During the hot summer days, it is best to go early morning or in the late afternoon as many of the animals are hiding or asleep during the hot part of the day.
An amazing experience! A must see if you love the big animals. The walking bridge is great exercise and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable.
Amazing cause saving these big cats from abuse and torture
It's everything a zoo should be and more; made for the animals is how it should be while the more is the ridiculously long walkway that spands the sanctuary above the habitats which allows people to view the hundred of lions, tigers, bears, and other top predators that reside there without causing them any stress. I highly, highly recommend paying it a visit, it's incredible!
I've been here before and still think it's amazing.
It was very expensive the web site says come at five there are no animals to see the staff is very rude and mean to children do not waste your time or money. Carl works on the walk way should never be around children.
There is no through to what he said. Do not GO THERE TOTAL WASTE
This place is amazing. What a wonderful mission to rescue abused animals from around the world. And just as a destination, it's a unique opportunity to see a wide variety of big cats, bears, wolves, and other wild animals in relatively natural group settings.
I love this place and everything they do.
Went & checked this place out for our first time yesterday for our Friday family outing & we were not disappointed in any way. It was amazing to see what they are doing for these beautiful creatures! Definitely go check it out, just make sure you are prepared for the walk & weather. Also, try to go at cooler times so you get to see more activity from the animals.
I appreciate wearing masks in public places like this and have always respected it. I am NOT an anti-masker. That being said, the employees were rude, relentless, tacky, and militant about it. They would yell at people for even the SLIGHTEST infraction. 100% unprofessional and uncalled for. Even if someone needs some correction on how to wear their mask appropriately per the business needs and requirements there is a way that you can communicate to people that is respectful and they missed the mark ENTIRELY.
We certainly won t be back while the mask mandate is in place and we may or may not after it s lifted. There are plenty of places that will treat its customers with respect that we can give our business to.
Wasn't weird and the animals looked happy with room to roam
This is a pretty cool place but if you don't believe in the cause you might as well just go to a zoo and pay less and get a lot more.
I was impressed with the amount of knowledge that our tour guide had and the focus was clearly on serving the animals.
The sanctuary does good work with rescuing animals from terrible situations. The animals have large, though mostly featureless, enclosures. Some animals are kept in situations that are not necessarily species appropriate (tigers, black bears, servals, etc. are generally solitary for most of their lives). My biggest complaint is that most of the sanctuary's animal residents range from overweight to morbidly obese, which is just as bad for the health of the animals as being underweight. All in all, however, an organization that serves a valuable purpose and is worth a visit.
Took my kids there. This a great place and different than a zoo and better for sure....they are doing some good for the animals. I would encourage people to go at least once to help the animals.
The two stars is for the staff and owner. Pat Craig is a redneck for sure. Started something good and got much bigger than his skill set can handle. He obviously just passes it down to the staff and volunteers also. If you disagree great but your experience wasnt mine and anytime an owner swears at you with your kids around.....classless redneck !
For someone that makes 131,345 a year you would think he would take a few " how to deal with people " classes.
I am sure he is able to pull it all together many times a year to hit up big donors but overall you can tell he really doesnt care if people are there they just want you to help by donating.
If you dont have to deal with the staff or ownership everything will be fine.
FYI if you plan to post anything negative he doesnt care either....you can tell by 1. the canned response to nearly all the negative posts.
2. Pat Craig made it very clear to me when he was showing his classless personality that he doesnt care about negative posts and doesnt care what people think.
Great job with the place Pat just sorry your the boss and not just a worker....someone could probably grow that place bigger and better for the animals.
This was such a great place for the animals to be compared to where they came from and the staff is very helpful and kind.
I've been to the Wild Animal Sanctuary a few times and I've always had such a nice time. It seems like they keep adding onto the attractions every year, so it keeps getting better. Plan on doing some walking and plan on lots of sunshine. It can definitely get hot on the walkways and there is very little shade. If you like animals you'll love this place.
This is an amazing place. The work they do here for the animals is healing for all. Many thank you's for all you do.
30 bucks each. .really? Family went and walked the walk. Yes it is elevated. No, the animals are not in their habitats mostly. The elevated decking was failing so the sancuary placed steel sheets over them ( ever heard of trex?). Anyway, there are many trip hazards on the way back for which my wife found and fell. Some observed can really be a life threatening event.
Here is my take on the sanctuary. You see tigers, lions, and bears mostly over and over wit few other observabe others. Bravo to save them. Repatriate your animals if you can as well as get on a list to help good zoos keep up their stock as well as help breeding programs.
This place is really far out in the sticks.
Had awesome experience when I went. Best staff and was very knowledgeable will recommend anyone and everyone I know to go at least once.
A 5000 ac. Sanctuary for rescued wild animals. a 11/2 mile long elevated walkway for observing them, year-round. I highly recommend it.
This place is always awesome, just make sure to bring a light jacket for wind and rain sometimes..... just to be sure. I do this every year and I love it.
It's the closest to heaven for these animals.
I need to edit my review to address the money issue. Yes, it's disappointing that they raised the fee, however it was not out of greed. It's a sanctuary, it costs more for upkeep per person than $15. Those of you who compare it to a zoo should know the following. It's a sanctuary with NO help from any government aide, like the zoo. It's is fully funded by donations, so taking a hit per visitor was not helping anything. And yes, there are 3 times more volunteers than staff members. It survives on both groups which work more and harder than you can imagine. Sensualizing the media's 'price hike' coverage doesn't help. This is about the animals. The sanctuary has always put animals first for their live and comfort and people's needs second. If you want up close views of animals in small enclosure go to the zoo. If you want to support the sanctuary saving abused and neglected carnivorous animals, then come here. Relax and enjoy the animals in a close to natural habitat as they can provide.
(Also to address shade and climate, all enclosures at the sanctuary have underground climate controlled rooms over 40 square feet. I'm not sure why some people go off on things and don't actually know the details- these educational videos can be viewed above the tiger roundhouse at the sanctuary)
This is a fun place for families. Be sure to bring water, walking shoes, binoculars and a good camera to take pictures.
This is the best place to see big cats. These lions and tigers are so happy. Please believe them when they tell you to prepare for the weather. If it's a little chilly on the ground, it's cold and windy on the cat walk!
Not what I was expecting, had a good time, kind of wish they were open a bit earlier in the day when it is not so hot. Also, the mandatory donation at the beginning is a bit much, it is already pretty expensive to go to begin with. And I understand that the money goes to a good cause and it cost a lot to feed all those animals. But if you are going to "require a MINIMUM of a dollar" DONATION it should already be included in the cost. I felt like I was being held hostage at the register till I gave the ok to charge my card an additional dollar. Its not a donation at that point its a required fee. People are more likely to donate more when they are not hassled like its a stage coach hold up.
No dogs allow so dont bring your puppy cant leave the dog in the car cause they will call animal control they said ask us to leave rude and sucks you can help or have options to have a dog
Hooowwl....!
I love this place.
What a wonderful place to go in a wonderful job they're doing.
Love all the rescue dogs too.
Beautiful place to visit, any time of year. See the animals in peace, so wild and content.
"Saving an animal will not change the world, but that animal's life will change forever"
Animal Sanctuary
Love this place 789 acres of animal habitats, destined for more than 600 animals rescued from captivity and extreme abuse in the world. It is incredible the change they still have one year after their arrival and all the time they kindly give them to adapt from venue to venue to join the pack, a non-profit institution and also supported by the donation and volunteering of the beautiful determined people to exchange their memories of suffering for a full life.
We loved the Wild Animal Sanctuary. Intend to go back again. And, we appreciated what they are doing for all of these animals.
I LOVE TIGERS AND LET ME TELL YOU, THEY GOT TIGERS. (THEY GOT THE SAME ONES IN WINNIE THE POOH)
Always 5 Stars when we visit here!!! The animals were active since it was approaching dusk. My 3 year old son has so much fun here!!!
Tiger section was under construction so that part was a little disappointing to not see. Also didnt see the Jaguars at all. They didn't each to come out but the volunteers are AMAZING! SO PASSIONATE AND HELPFUL!
Rescued animals in a safe and caring environment. Slow walk to end of boardwalk and back as there are so many animals to see. Took 100's of pictures. No shade on boardwalk. Sunscreen, water and comfortable shoes. Come early.
Had a blast with my family visiting the Sanctuary. I would recommend bringing binoculars just because the animal enclosures are very large, and there aren't many binocular looking stations set up..
This place is full of sad stories, but also hope which this place is for the animals. Entry is pretty high at 30$ and a mandatory donation on top of that. We went in winter so we missed out on the bears, who were hibernating. They do have alot of lions and tigers. The lion house was pretty cool. I have never heard a lion roar in real life, so that was an amazing experience. After we were done i order some pizzas from the Lions Den and they were freakin amazing.
Enjoyed my time here! will definitely go again. Loved seeing the animals roam freely and hearing the sounds they make. Watching them interact with each other was enjoyable! absolutely will make a return trip.
This place is super cool and super expansive. Although I've been told the admission price has been increased substantially. Bring a pair of binoculars, some sun protection, and get ready for a sweet half-day of sightseeing and exercise. I particularly enjoyed the setup and viewing opportunities. If you like animals and you'll love this.
The wild animal sanctuary raised it's costs to such extremes that unfortunately many people cannot afford to come and contribute and know where their money is being used. When the news first broke of the extreme price changes, they blocked any and all negative feedback from the community so that they could not post on their Facebook. The animals suffer when they cannot maintain public relations and it's unfortunate as the cause is good.
One of our absolute favorite places to visit. We wouldn't go without "rewarding"ourselves for the walk with a stop at their delicious little ice cream shop.
This is the most amazing place to view wild animals. My husband and I spend entire days there. It's so easy to stand in one place for hours and watch the animal action happening around you, some up close, some far away through binoculars. I've seen bears wrestle and play in water, wolves howl in unison, cats making their noises, foxes running around, gorgeous sunsets. It's truly an amazing experience you won't get anywhere else. Just make sure to show up with time and patience!
A beautiful, peaceful place with an awesome mission.
A unique experience! The Sanctuary is an important stop on any trip to the Denver area. Their mission is to house large animals rescued from a variety of situations that don't allow them to be reintroduced into the wild. Their education & oriention is direct & easy,to understand. The elevated walkway is truly unique & completely accessible. Pack sunscreen, a water bottle & your binoculars for this experience!
Thank you for all your efforts . Tremendous undertaking !! Amazing.
Do not go to this place if you want a professional experience! The staff said that they exist "for the animals" not "for the public" and that is very true! With 0 notice on their website, they changed their prices from $7.50 for kids and $15 for adults to $50 for kids and adults! We drove over an hour with 8 people, and the management said there was nothing they could do even though they just increased the pricing less than a week before with no heads up notice on their website!! Increasing pricing from 300-700% with no notice on your website is extremely unprofessional, and the staff onsite were no more professional. They were not rude, but their stand is obviously not to create any friendliness to the public.
Amazing place! Better then most zoos, I have seen!
Here is a beautiful tiger at sanctuary!
Very fun! I really recommend it. The hot chocolate was delicious! They have adorable souvenirs but, they can be really expensive.
Always amazing to see the animals. You can bring a lunch and sit out and eat watching the animals. They also gave snack bars, pizza, ice cream. Talk to the volunteers they know all the good stuff. Go early to watch them feed.
wildanimalsanctuary.org
