At the Panther Ridge Conservation Center you are just outside West Palm Beach, but it feels like you're deep in the heart of Africa. At Panther Ridge Conservation Center, some of the world's big cats wander freely in large, open habitats replicating parts of Africa.
Parents and animal-lovers of all ages will be happy to note that the Panther Ridge Conservation Center is now open for the summer.
The brainchild of Judy Berens, who still runs it, Panther Ridge began back in the 90s, when people started bringing her big cats they no longer wanted or could care for. It wasn't long before she found herself caring for several big cats, so she began searching for land where she could create a refuge for injured or endangered animals and nurse them back to health.
Today, a mix of tigers, rare black panthers, jaguars, mountain lions, cheetahs, and smaller cats such as ocelots roam Panther Ridge, and you can watch Judy enter their cages and cuddle with them. Guided tours are available, including a fun twilight tour, a keeper experience, as well as a thrilling opportunity to interact with one of the park's elusive leopards.
Address: 12143 D Road, Loxahatchee, Florida
