Exotic Animal Experiences Near
Lakeland FL
Polk County is positioned between Tampa and Orlando, which means Lakeland residents have access to major attractions in both directions. But the most underrated experience within driving distance goes north: Chase Sanctuary in Webster is an exotic animal experiences near Lakeland FL. About 55 miles up US-98, a 20-acre nonprofit wildlife sanctuary where guided experiences with lemurs, sloths, anteaters, otters, and more run in small, intimate groups.
Genuinely Wild
The Painting With Primates experience is a particular standout for Lakeland visitors -- it combines a guided art session with genuine primate interaction in a way that is genuinely hard to explain until you have done it.
Chase is open by appointment and bookings fill fast on weekends.
Book Your Experience →"The Painting With Primates experience is a particular standout for Lakeland visitors -- it combines a guided art session with genuine primate interaction in a way that is genuinely hard to explain until you have done it."— Location Details
Address: 6127 SE 122nd Blvd, Webster, FL 33597
Signature Experiences
Discover the encounters that make Chase Sanctuary unforgettable.
$89/person | Sundays 10AM & Fridays 3PM (as scheduled)
Create art surrounded by the sanctuary's primate residents. Part art class, part animal encounter -- a favorite for groups, date nights, and solo adventurers.
Book Painting With Primates$75/person | Saturdays at 12:30PM
A guided group tour through the sanctuary with interactive animal encounters. The most accessible experience -- ideal for families, birthday parties, and first-time visitors.
Book Interactive Group Tour$125/person | Tuesdays, Fridays & Sundays at 11AM
An intimate private tour centered on the lemur troop. Get up close, learn about their endangered status, and experience these remarkable primates firsthand. Chase Sanctuary's most popular experience.
Book Lemur & Friends Private TourBook Your Experience Now!
Add-On Encounters
Add-On Encounters (+$75 each)
Sloth / Anteater Add-On
Up-close time with gentle sloths or anteaters -- always on the animal's own terms.
Otter Feeding Add-On
Hand-feed Chase Sanctuary's playful otters and watch them at their most energetic.
About Chase Sanctuary
Chase Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit wildlife sanctuary in Webster, FL dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of endangered primates and exotic animals.
The sanctuary operates on WAZA welfare standards. Animal interactions are never forced.
Every dollar from your booking goes directly to animal care and conservation. No animals from Chase Sanctuary have ever been sold as pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How far is Chase Sanctuary from Lakeland?
A: Chase Sanctuary is approximately 55 miles north of Lakeland -- under an hour via US-98 North into Webster, FL.
Q2: What is the best exotic animal experience near Lakeland?
A: The Lemur & Friends Private Tour and Painting With Primates are both standout experiences for Lakeland visitors. Painting With Primates is unique in that it combines a guided art session with live primate interaction -- something not offered anywhere else in the region.
Q3: Is Chase Sanctuary open on weekends for Lakeland day trips?
A: Yes. The Interactive Group Tour and Sunrise at the Sanctuary both run on Saturdays. The Mini Cows & Mini Tour runs Saturdays and Sundays. The Lemur & Friends Private Tour runs Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Q4: Is Chase Sanctuary a nonprofit?
A: Yes. Chase Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All revenue from experiences goes directly to animal care, habitat upkeep, and global conservation efforts. No primates from the sanctuary have ever been sold as pets.
Q5: Can I book Chase Sanctuary for a birthday trip from Lakeland?
A: Yes. Chase Sanctuary is a popular birthday destination. The Interactive Group Tour accommodates larger birthday groups. The Ultimate VIP Experience can be arranged privately for a more exclusive celebration.