Bears look so cuddly and are a major part of cultures around the world. It makes sense that there would be special places for people to visit them. One such place is Bearizona just outside of Flagstaff, Arizona on Interstate 40. In addition to the several bears visitors get to see up close, the park also has wolves, bison, deer, elk, and many other North American animals that enchant guests.
Drive-thru Park
Bearizona is first and foremost a drive-thru safari park. Instead of exotic animals, they keep North American beasts for visitors to experience. The drive takes visitors in their own cars through enclosures housing these majestic animals. No, you cannot feed them, but you can see them.
The most interesting and exciting parts are when you drive through the wolf and bear enclosures. Windows up and doors locked. Keep driving, but slowly. The animals are literally just outside your door. They get to wander their territory while you stay in your cage to see them.
I particularly enjoyed the bison. They are such majestic animals. I wish there were more in the wild as there used to be, but I’m glad some people recognized they were about to be wiped out and prevented that from happening.
Walk-thru Park
In addition to the drive-thru section, which you can go through as many times as you want, there is a walk-through area. This is more like a zoo with enclosures visitors can look across moats and fences to see. Their collection sticks with North American animals such as porcupines, otters, bobcats, and more. This is also where they have the bear cubs.
There is a petting area with goats and chickens. And, Bearizona has a bird show to educate guests about the amazing raptors that call America home. A large visitor center/gift shop was under-construction when we visited, but it should have an area to meet animals up-close.
