Park your convertible at the Hertz Hut and rent an air-conditioned sedan or safari-type vehicle at nominal charge. The four-decade-old attraction has aged gracefully. This is a lovely, old-fashioned Florida attraction for guests of all ages. The cheetahs can outrun your Cougar—you have a speed limit, but they dont. Theres a four-mile drive-through preserve which provides great views of many different species. Does not apply to first time passes or passes that expired before our closure on March 20th, 2020. Florida’s largest drive-through safari and walk-through amusement park invites you to spend the day on safari with over 1000 animals. See all. Panther Ridge Conservation Center (93) 2.8 mi. Best nearby. The location in Southern California had a lot going for it—a great climate, a large local population, and a significant tourist base. On a February night in 1978, Bubbles managed to burrow under her fence, squeeze past a barricade and lumber away from her pen at the old Lion Country Safari animal park in Irvine. Jojo's Raw Bar & Grill (67) 4.8 mi $$ - $$$ American. “Magic Mountain doesn’t have any magic nor is it on a mountain. The 140-acre attraction was the brainchild of South African developer Harry Shuster, who opened the park in 1970 as a way to bring the exotic sights and sounds of an African safari to the tourists of Orange County. Seeing wild animals from the window of my mom's car was quite a thrill! Drive up to a ticket window. Visitors could drive through the safari, and ride the African Express Train, Hippo Pedal Boats and the Zambezi River. Lion Country Safari itself enjoyed quite a heyday. Spring — April 1 to May 31 — 5:00 p.m. Prices and operating hours subject to change without notice. Visitors would drive their cars through enclosures of wild African animals, including lions, elephants, ostriches, zebras, rhinos and many others. Guests are lent a CD or cassette for commentary through the cars stereo. RELATED: Lion Country Safari might acquire cheetah, penguins. Adjacent to Lion Country Safari is an award-winning KOA campground where you can wake to the sounds of roaring lions. Its worth visiting Floridas Lion Country Safari if you like animals and youre in the area. Lion Country Safari is 40 miles from Downtown Los Angeles or 64 miles from Downtown San Diego, according to the brochure. Nevertheless, Shuster stressed, the park will retain the name Lion Country Safari. “No Trespassing. Dont expect the spectacular art direction of Disneys Animal Kingdom. When you finish your drive-through tour of the preserve, the fun isnt over yet. Frasier sired 35 cubs until his death in June 1972 at 17-20 years of age, equivalent to a human age of 85-100 years. The animals have the right-of-way. Home; Contributors. Each party will receive one (1) complimentary commemorative Christmas with the Chimps ornament painted by one of the chimpanzees at Lion Country Safari. Winter — November 1 to March 31 — 3:30 p.m. Ostriches seem to enjoy seeing their reflections in car windows. After visiting Safari World, guests are welcome to drive through the preserve again at no additional charge. There is no charge for parking. In 1986, part of the former Safari Camp became Wild Rivers Waterpark. The only thing between you and the ferocious beasts is your car window. Florida’s only drive-through safari and walk-through amusement park invites you to spend the day on safari with over 1000 animals. First-rate accommodations are provided for them, free, at the Kal Kan Kennel Club.”. It opened in July 1986 on the site of the former Lion Country Safari. Lion Country Safari: Irvine, California Lion Country Safari existed in Irvine, California until 1984. There is an inherent risk to COVID-19 exposure in any public location where people are present. Take a Zambezi River Cruise (adults 75 cents, children 50 cents)—the animals along the river are real, unlike those at the Jungle Cruise in that park in Anaheim. *Please continue to check the website for Safari World amenities that might be temporarily affected by COVID-19. Do you love animals? The zebras are glad that theyre separated from the lions by fences. Cypress Gardens & LEGOLAND Lion Country Safari existed in Irvine, California until 1984. Richard Harris is the author Early Amusement Parks of Orange County. Loxahatchee Ice Cream & Coffee (53) 5 mi $ American. This, coupled with an escaped elephant and hippo as well as a tiger attack, caused the park to close its doors in 1984. Lion Country Safari’s Conservation Committee, “One of the top 10 most amazing zoos” – The Weather Channel. CP: Lions attract a lot of attention: Lion Country Safari, the Lion King, Born Free, Chronicles of Narnia, the Cowardly Lion, etc. However after Fraiser died, attendance dropped. Everything you need to plan your visit is right here: Directions, park rules, what to bring on safari and available rentals. Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre opened in 1981, and Lion Country Safari closed in 1984. “Why not?” he asked. Youll be greeted by a sign that reads, Irvine is often ranked the safest city in America. According to the brochure, No articles of any nature are to be attached or tied on the outside of your vehicle. Experience an authentic safari in your family car. In November 1984, after more than 14 years in business, Lion Country Safari closed permanently. Frasiers sorry visage adorned tee-shirts and other park souvenirs. But there are still plenty of species wandering around in surprisingly large herds. Lion Country was founded and headed up by South African CEO Harry Shuster of United Leisure in 1968 and the first park opened in Florida in 1969. (It doesnt cost as much for admission either.) “Domestic animals are not permitted in automobiles touring the preserve. Discovery Island , also known as " Bay Lake 's Tropical Island Paradise," is an 11½- acre island in Bay Lake at Walt ... Search This Blog. We appreciate the understanding of these organizations and any questions can be directed via email to sales@lioncountrysafari.com. Given the size of the elephants and rhinoceroses, nobody should debate this rule. Park your car and visit the Safari Camp and Entertainment Area. Curious ostriches might peck at your Falcon. The location in Southern California had a lot going for it—a great climate, a large local population, and a significant tourist base. (They dont really want the lions to eat you.) In recent years, the owners have upgraded the facilities with new features such as a giraffe feeding station, a ferris wheel, and a childrens water-play area, Safari Splash. If youre driving a convertible, you wont be allowed to drive it through the safari. We recommend 4-6 hoursfor the full experience. Applicable to pass(es) purchased on or after March 20, 2019 that were affected by our temporary closure and have since expired. An elderly, nearly toothless lion named Frasier came from a Mexican circus in February 1971. Check out our current job openings by clicking the button below. the Irvine Ranch in Orange County, California. 26 Restaurants within 5 miles. The Irvine Company chose to build housing on the terrain, such that the entire space of the original Irvine-based Lion Country Safari Park would become a 3,700-unit housing development. Please renew in person or over the phone to take advantage of this promotion. Did you bring your pets with you? On June 16, 1970, Lion Country Safari in Irvine opened to the public. [6] Live Nation and FivePoint built a temporary amphitheatre at the Orange County Great Park named FivePoint Amphitheater in 2017, for a limited term of 3 years, based on the Conditional Use Permit process. We ask that registered guests arrive at … Wild Rivers Waterpark and Verizon Wireless Amphitheater now occupy part of the property, which is owned by the Irvine Co. But these hills were once home to the Lion Country Safari, one of one of Irvine’s most unique historical landmarks. Frazier the lion was always my favorite and it was really sad … Lion Country Safari has been voted “Best Outdoor Activity in Palm Beach County” by South Florida Parenting Magazine. When the lions and tigers are gone, the only remaining animals at the park will be tame ones in its petting zoo and exotic birds. Over 400 animals call Lion Country Safari “home.”. Click Just head down the San Diego Freeway to the Moulton Parkway off-ramp. But these hills were once home to the Lion Country Safari, one of one of Irvine's most unique historical landmarks. By visiting Lion Country Safari, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19. Safari Camp Map Californias Lion Country Safari entertained visitors from 1970 to 1984. Lion Country Safari, Irvine, 1971 From the Orange County Archives' Planning Dept. The 140-acre attraction was the … It’s now the site of Los Olivos, the largest apartment complex in Orange County, with 1,750 units. The lions are now fenced in. These photos were taken at Lion Country Safari in Laguna Hills/Irvine in 1971. Original 8 mm film of the defunct Lion Country Safari theme park in Irvine, California. Drive thru Lion Country Safari African Wildlife Preserve.”. Lion Country Safari was given a big boost by an unlikely star attraction. You can drive your Impala among the antelope. (Its still Moulton Parkway after Lake Forest Drive.). YESTER LION COUNTRY SAFARI (CALIFORNIA) HOURS: Open every day of the year, rain or shine, at 9 a.m. until: Summer — June 1 to Labor Day — 6:00 p.m. Frasier even inspired a 1973 feature movie, Frasier the Sensuous Lion, rated PG. May 28, 2014 - Lion Country Safari (closed), Irvine CA - Late 1970's The experience begins at 10:30AM. On June 16, 1970, Lion Country Safari in Irvine opened to the public. Do you love working with the public? More apartments are planned for the site of the amphitheater when its lease runs out in 2017. Frasier was thought to be to old to mate but ended up fathering 35 cubs in just over a year. Filmed on a Super 8 camera that did not record sound. And Knott’s Berry Farm hasn’t been a real farm for many years. But Lion Country Safari had stiff competition from Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm, and the beach. See 1 tip from 68 visitors to Lion Country Safari. Surprisingly, the “so valuable” land that was once the drive-through safari remained undeveloped for decades. Lion Country Safari is a smoke-free park. The original park in Florida consists of over 1,000 animals, throughout seven sections in the 4-mile preserve as well as the 33-acre Amusement Park. There was population boom of lion cubs at the park. In 1981, Irvine Meadows Amphitheater (now called Verizon Wireless Amphitheater) was added to Lion Country Safari. “One of the of 30 Best Zoos in the United States” – U.S. News and World Report Travel, “A top family-friendly activity in Palm Beach” – Forbes, “One of America’s Wackiest and Best Camping Sites & Road Trip Stops” – Peter Greenberg, The Travel Detective®, Check individual attractions for hours and availability. For information call (561) 793-9797 or reservations at (800) 562-9115. It doesnt require a time machine. According to the brochure, “Go Wild! The second park in California opened in June 1970. Park guests are glad that the fences are hidden in ditches so that it feels like driving through an African savanna, not through a series of fenced enclosures. Nature & Wildlife Areas. 2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee, FL 33470-3977. You dont have to go to Africa for this African Safari. High quality Lion Country Safari gifts and merchandise. Email. All orders are custom made and most ship worldwide within 24 hours. My parents took me to Lion Country Safari in Irvine, CA. The Lion Country Safari name has long been erased. Follow by Email . Fall — Day after Labor Day to October 31 — 5:00 p.m. And he was missed by Lion Country, which closed in 1984. Some of the film is damaged in the middle section, but it improves. He may not have been much to look at as far as we humans were concerned, but the lionesses saw him differently. Wild Rivers was a water park in Irvine, California, United States. The elephants, who had long ago been moved into an elephant enclosure, were removed from Lion Country Safari in 2006; they are now at facilities that provide better social and physical environments for them. Inspired designs on t-shirts, posters, stickers, home decor, and more by independent artists and designers from around the world. Lion Country Safari in California (1970-1984) Lion Country Safari, a now closed drive through wild animal park in Orange County California Orange County California Vintage California Southern California Lakewood California Tustin California Irvine California Sunny California Visit California Wild Animal Park Lion Country Safari, Irvine, 1971 (c) 1996-2019 Lion Country Safari, Inc.- Florida©. The location in Southern California had a lot going for it—a great climate, a large local population, and a significant tourist base. Moulton Parkway adjacent to the site is now called Irvine Center Drive. Since the closure, there have been plans to recreate Wild Rivers in Irvine on or near the Orange County Great Park, which have been under development. On June 16, 1970, Lion Country Safari in Irvine opened to the public. The old cats tongue dangled from one side of his mouth, and he had trouble walking. The Safari World area provides animal exhibits, demonstrations, and rides (including rather Dumbo-esque flying elephants). Youll see more than just lions at Californias Lion Country Safari. On October 27, 1984, in the Los Angeles Times, staff writer Bruce Horowitz wrote about the end of the drive-through safari at Lion Country Safari: The roar of Lion Country Safari may soon be replaced by a gurgle. Following the expiration of its lease with The Irvine Company, it closed permanently on September 25, 2011. With animal displays and encounters, animal feeding experiences, 5 rides, water sprayground, food, shopping and more, you are sure to have a memorable experience at Lion Country Safari. California’s Lion Country Safari entertained visitors from 1970 to 1984. (Lion Country Safaris Bulwagi the elephant was at Disneys Animal Kingdom for four years before moving to the Birmingham Zoo in December 2010.) Two years later, another attraction opened, Wild Rivers Waterpark, … Frasier was owned by the Lion Country Safari in Laguna Hills, California, the nation's first real wild animal park. MiceChat! Frasier was owned by the Lion Country Safari in Laguna Hills, California, the nation's first real wild animal park. For a larger (1200x1400 GIF) version of this Safari Camp map, click here. Not to be combined with any other offers. Yes, Lion Country Safari is long gone—but you can still visit Lion Country Safari. If you’re not looking for this adventurous of a stay, there are quite a few hotels in the area. Named one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the Palm Beaches by Discover the Palm Beaches. Website +1 561-793-1084. Rental vehicles are available at the front office for a nominal fee. Theres still a Lion Country Safari near West Palm Beach, Florida. Do not copy or redistribute in any form. Gator Shack (13) 3 mi $$ - $$$ Bar. Was a kid growing up in Huntington Beach, I used to really enjoy the drive through Lion Country Safari Park located down in Irvine. Adults are $3.25; children five through eleven are $1.50; four and under are free. Your safari awaits you right on Home, © 2007-2020 Werner Weiss — Disclaimers, Copyright, and Trademarks. The highlight of your safari is being surrounded by lions. For your convenience and safety, the following rules apply to all vehicles entering the preserve: Convertibles, motorcycles or any open air vehicles are not allowed. All future uses of this photo should include the courtesy line, "Photo courtesy Orange County Archives." There are no known copyright restrictions on this image. Violators Will Be Eaten! With animal displays and encounters, animal feeding experiences, 6 rides, water sprayground, food, shopping and more, you are sure to have a memorable experience at Lion Country Safari. Thats because the original (1967) Lion Country in Loxahatchee, Florida, is still in open for business. $175 (plus tax) for up to 4 guests. Over 900 animals live at the Florida park. Lion Country was founded and headed up by South African CEO Harry Shuster ... Disney's Discovery Island. But it looked downright dangerous for the 14 years Lion Country Safari called it home. A ranger watches from a tower to make sure everything is okay. Park officials announced Thursday that they intend to phase out the 100-acre animal preserve at the struggling tourist attraction and replace a portion of it with a major water-theme amusement park. Filmed with an 8mm film camera in Orange County, CA, at Lion Country Safari. Cars and animals still the share the road in Florida. "This hasn't been open for probably about a decade." COVID-19 can lead to severe illness and death. Frasier's tree sits on the hills above homes being built in Irvine where Frasier from Lion Country Safari is believed to be buried nearby. Many locals remember the escape of Bubbles the Hippo in 1978. We value your feedback and upon completion of our short survey, you will be entered into a monthly drawing to win free tickets! A lion might even jump on the hood of your car—but, more likely, the well-fed lions will all be on the ground taking it easy. Lion Country Safari has been a proud supporter of nonprofit organizations and schools in the past, but will not be able to fulfill any donation requests as of May 2020 and until further notice. “One of America’s Wackiest and Best Camping Sites & Road Trip Stops” – Peter Greenberg, The Travel Detective® Like Us on Facebook The water park operated until September 2011. If a 500-pound adult lion dents the hood of your car, how will you explain it to your insurance company? In fact, the rules were so casual in the 1960s and ‘70s that visitors could arrange to cuddle with lion cubs. Chimpanzees live on islands. Collection. Our Mission: Be a leader in animal care, conservation and education to inspire people through connections with wildlife in a fun, family-friendly environment. Giraffes will tower over your Pinto. here to discuss this page on the Yesterland Discussion Forum at “This land is so valuable that it no longer makes sense to have these animals occupying 100 choice acres,” said Harry Shuster, president of Lion Country Safari Inc. Over the next three months, the park plans to begin converting operations and selling its estimated 300 “wild” animals—valued at more than $200,000—to other animal parks and zoos nationwide, Shuster added. Lion Country Safari.”. All Rights Reserved. 5 Other Attractions within 5 miles. But Lion Country Safari had stiff competition from Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, and the beach. Its only a 20-minute drive from Yesterland. And Trademarks size of the defunct Lion Country Safari: Irvine, California 1984! To discuss this page on the Yesterland Discussion Forum at MiceChat to look at as far as we humans concerned... Beach County ” by South Florida Parenting Magazine for many years Kan Club.! 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Amenities that might be temporarily affected by COVID-19 road in Florida t-shirts, posters, stickers, home,! @ lioncountrysafari.com rather Dumbo-esque flying elephants ) visage adorned tee-shirts and other park souvenirs not... All risks related to exposure to COVID-19 stiff competition from Disneyland, Knott ’ s Berry Farm, he!: Irvine, California Cypress Gardens & LEGOLAND home, © 2007-2020 Weiss! Adorned tee-shirts and other park souvenirs author Early amusement Parks of Orange County Archives ' Planning lion country safari, irvine March 20th 2020... Including rather Dumbo-esque flying elephants ) had trouble walking it looked downright dangerous for the site of the again... $ Bar you like animals and youre in the middle section, but They dont really the. Cream & Coffee ( 53 ) 5 mi $ $ Bar February 1971 a nominal.!, equivalent to a human age of 85-100 years can still visit Lion Country Safari might cheetah. Angeles or 64 miles from Downtown San Diego, according to the public and Knott ’ s most historical. Into a monthly drawing to win free tickets only drive-through Safari remained undeveloped for decades preserve which provides views! Some of the defunct Lion Country Safari is long gone—but you can wake to brochure... Runs out in 2017 frasier the Sensuous Lion, rated PG as much for admission.! Ship worldwide within 24 hours Kan Kennel Club. ” lovely, old-fashioned Florida attraction for of. ‘ 70s that visitors could arrange to cuddle with Lion cubs at Hertz...
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