Calling all animal lovers! There's a fantastic little animal preserve located in East Feliciana Parish that's worth the two-hour drive from New Orleans, and you need to check it out. Barn Hill Preserve is one of the few attractions in Louisiana that offers interactive, educational animal encounters with some of the most exotic animals you've ever seen.
Tucked away in the sleepy little town of Ethel, Barn Hill Animal Preserve is one of the most unique hidden gems in Louisiana.
Home to some of the most unique and exotic animals, Barn Hill is the ideal spot for animal lovers to visit and learn more about these fascinating animals.
There are over 50 different species of animals including two-toed sloths, asian small-clawed otters, reticulated giraffes, and more!
And each one is cuter than the next.
In addition to the animal encounter tour, where you'll meet several of their animal ambassadors, they also offer specialized programs like giraffe encounters, where you can bottle feed a baby giraffe...
...and sip wine with sloths!
Sipping with sloths is a special event that is offered at specific times throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for future events like this one.
One of their most popular attractions lets you swim with otters!
You haven't experienced pure joy until one of these cuddly critters swims up to you.
Of course, the land-loving animals are pretty cute, too.
And equally snuggly.
Barn Hill is open for tours daily, and tickets must be purchased online.
The tours last about an hour and are offered at specific times throughout the day, so plan accordingly! Also, the preserve is on about seven acres and completely outdoors, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Concessions are not offered, but guests are encouraged to bring water bottles and snacks.
Visit their website to reserve your tickets and learn more about all of the programs offered at Barn Hill, and don't forget to give them a follow on Facebook, too. If you've ever visited Barn Hill, share your experience with us in the comments!
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