An inexpensive, intimate and meaningful visit: up-close bald eagles, owls and hawks at a working rehab hospital. Small, so best paired with Winter Park.
Overview
The Audubon Center for Birds of Prey, in Maitland just north of Orlando, has treated more than 25,000 injured raptors since 1979. It has released over a thousand bald eagles back to the wild. Visitors see the "lakeside" mews holding resident birds that cannot survive in the wild.
What you'll see: Bald eagles, a variety of owls (barred, great horned, screech and barn), red-shouldered and red-tailed hawks, kestrels, swallow-tailed kites, vultures and others. Each mew has a sign telling the bird's story. Staff and volunteers often bring birds out on the glove for informal talks. You can watch through glass as birds are rehabilitated, and in season you may see eagles flying in the flight barn.
Who it's for: All ages. Kids are usually awestruck at seeing a bald eagle a few feet away. It is quiet, shady and small, taking about 45-75 minutes.
Practical tips (official site): Open Tuesday-Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Mondays. Admission is $10. Free parking. The site sits in a residential neighborhood by Lake Sybelia, so follow the signs. There is no food on site. Bird walks, special talks and baby-bird season (spring) are highlights. Admission supports the rehab work.
Pairs well with: Winter Park (#2 boat tour, #14 Morse Museum), 10 minutes south, for a full and varied day.
Good to know
Closed Mondays. Small (about 1 hour). No food on site.
Still being confirmed with the venue:
- Exact rehab/release statistics (from Audubon materials, approximate)
- Child pricing details
