York’s Wild Kingdom

About

York's Wild Kingdom combines a walkable zoo with a classic amusement park right in the heart of York Beach, Maine. It's been a family-owned destination for decades, drawing visitors who want a day that mixes animal encounters with carnival-style fun.

The zoo side features a diverse collection of animals from around the world. You'll find everything from exotic birds and big cats to playful monkeys and gentle deer. Many exhibits allow closer interaction, making it a hit with younger visitors and anyone who enjoys hands-on animal experiences. Educational displays throughout the zoo help visitors learn about each species and conservation efforts.

On the amusement park side, you'll find a range of family-friendly rides. There are gentle options for small children alongside more thrilling attractions for older kids and adults. Classic fair food is available throughout the park, from cotton candy to fried dough and burgers.

The park sits just off Route 1A in York Beach, giving visitors easy access to the broader York Beach area. After a day at the park, the beach itself is just a short walk away. Nearby restaurants, ice cream shops, and souvenir stores round out a full day trip.

Parking is available both at the main lot and at a metered lot near the Route 1A entrance. The park is open seasonally, typically from late spring through early fall, so it's worth checking their website or calling ahead for current hours and pricing before planning your visit.

York's Wild Kingdom works well as a half-day or full-day outing. Families with kids of different ages will find plenty to keep everyone engaged, and the combination of zoo and rides means there's natural variety built into the visit. It's a low-key, approachable destination that doesn't overwhelm, making it a solid choice for a relaxed day out on Maine's southern coast.

Accessibility

York's Wild Kingdom is wheelchair accessible, with most areas of the park open to wheelchair users, including the zoo and many amusement park rides. The main entrance is ADA-compliant with no steps or stairs, allowing smooth entry for visitors with mobility devices.

Wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent at the Pony/Camel Stroller booth, located just inside the zoo entrance to the left. This is a convenient option for visitors who need mobility support but don't bring their own equipment.

Accessible parking is available near the entrance, reducing the distance visitors need to cover from their vehicle to the park. A secondary metered parking lot is located at the Route 1A entrance.

The zoo's pathways are generally flat and paved, making them manageable for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. However, specific surface conditions and grades may vary in different sections of the park.

For details about accessibility on specific amusement park rides, restroom accessibility, sensory accommodations, or service animal policies, contact York's Wild Kingdom directly before your visit. Staff can provide current information about which rides accommodate wheelchair users and what assistance is available. Their phone number is listed on their official website.

More accessible places in Maine

• Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens (Boothbay)
• Acadia NP & coastal hikes & food scene (Acadia National Park / Bar Harbor)
• Acadia National Park (Bar Harbor)
• Maine Maritime Museum (Bath)
• Portland Museum of Art (Portland)
• Southern Maine Beach Towns (Ogunquit)