Known for its natural hot thermal baths, Hot Springs attracts thousands of visitors looking for a relaxing getaway each year. But some may want to experience something different, something a little out of the ordinary. That is why a visit to Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo would be an ideal place to go. One would never guess that an alligator farm would also house such cuddly creatures like goats and sheep, but it does (and visitors can even hold and feed baby alligators!)

Founded in 1902 by a Mr. H.L. Campbell, the Arkansas Alligator Farm and Museum was then sold to Mr. Danny S. Older.

Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo/Facebook At one point the farm was host to over 1,500 alligators. During this time, there was also a supposed “merman” on placed display in the museum.

In 1947, the farm was then sold to Mr. and Mrs. Jack Bridges, Sr. who changed the name to The Arkansas Alligator Farm.

Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo/Facebook The business was then sold once more in 1965 to Mr. Jack Bridges, Jr. and his late wife who added turtles, monkeys, raccoons, and a gift shop. This attraction remains in the family today.

A visit here is likely one you will never forget.

Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo/Facebook Where else can you hold a baby alligator? Visitors are even given the opportunity to feed the babies using meat on a stick.

The petting zoo at the farm has pygmy goats, an emu, and sheep.

Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo/Facebook Guests are given free food to feed these adorable petting zoo animals while playing and cuddling with them.

These chickens, known as “Silkies” are one other species that call the Alligator Farm home.

Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo/Facebook The farm also has mountain lions, cougar, wolves, turtles, peacocks, turkeys, primates, and wild ducks.

Would you like to have a look at what’s in store for you at the Alligator Farm?

Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo/Facebook Watch this video posted on YouTube by Design Groups Consulting.

The Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo is the oldest attraction here in Hot Springs and is sure to delight the entire family. Take a break from relaxing at a hot spring and come here to feed a baby alligator and cuddle with some farm animals!

Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo/Facebook

At one point the farm was host to over 1,500 alligators. During this time, there was also a supposed “merman” on placed display in the museum.

The business was then sold once more in 1965 to Mr. Jack Bridges, Jr. and his late wife who added turtles, monkeys, raccoons, and a gift shop. This attraction remains in the family today.

Where else can you hold a baby alligator? Visitors are even given the opportunity to feed the babies using meat on a stick.

Guests are given free food to feed these adorable petting zoo animals while playing and cuddling with them.

The farm also has mountain lions, cougar, wolves, turtles, peacocks, turkeys, primates, and wild ducks.

Watch this video posted on YouTube by Design Groups Consulting.

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Address: Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo, 847 Whittington Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901, USA