There's a lot to do and see in Kansas, and there's plenty of places to start. However, while the weather is warming up this year, we think this zoo in Kansas is a fantastic place to start exploring our state. If you haven't visited yet, make sure you add this to your bucket list for this year!

Welcome to Safari Zoological Park, a spot in small town Caney, Kansas that's got more than your average rescue animal hanging around.

This park has been operating since 1989, when they received so many calls about touring their facility that they decided to make it a park for everyone. They have done more than their part in wildlife conservation, doing their part to keep species of animals populated, and caring for each of them by hand.

Tom and Allie Harvey have always loved animals of every shape and size, and you'll see just how much they mean to them once you arrive. Tom and the rest of the staff love to bring people together with these beautiful creatures to share something wonderful, even if that's just a small snack or a hello. They both have poured their hearts into this facility, and it really shows.

People travel from states away to see what's happening at arguably the best zoo in the state, and it's no mystery what they're here for. During your visit, you'll find tropical birds, large snakes, alligators, plenty of primates, large cats in multiple colors, and some of the cutest baby animals you've ever seen.

Here at Safari Zoological Park, you'll find that there are multiple ways to enjoy your visit. General entry will get you a guided tour of the facility and the animals within, but if you're looking for something a little on the wild side, you'll want to check out the other options available for a more personalized visit.

Their VIP special lets you feed and interact with the animals personally, including photos holding a large snake, adorable hedgehog, alligator, and even a fuzzy kangaroo like this one. They have various levels of their VIP packages, so make sure your favorite animals are checked off on your list.

(Availability of animal handling depends on age of animals at the time.)

Additionally, you can pay for a full day's fun here, and during the warm months, enjoy the park as well as hours of poolside fun to make your visit here among the best memories you've had in Kansas anywhere.

They might not have the size as other zoos you have visited, but open conversation with the owners and that special Kansas hospitality makes this one of the best destinations in the state. You're sure to have one wild time at this zoological park in small town Kansas.

You'll find Safari Zoological Park at 1751 County Rd 1425, Caney, Kansas. For hours of operation as well as contact information and tickets, check out their website here.

One of the best locations in Kansas might be this zoological park, but we think there are plenty of places around the state that should be included in your bucket list.