Cross the Bridge for an Authentic Farm Sanctuary Experience
Just across the Delaware Memorial or Commodore Barry Bridge — peaceful animal encounters.
Live Zoo Status
Connecting to the main gates...
Skip the crowded Jersey highways and overpriced commercial attractions! Cross the Delaware Memorial or Commodore Barry bridge for a quiet, budget-friendly morning adventure in the farm country of Townsend, DE.
At 3 Palms Zoo & Education Center, you'll discover a peaceful, non-profit rescue farm where you can hand-feed gentle llamas and goats, meet rescued owls and foxes, and see Mr. Smee at Delaware’s only live American alligator exhibit.
What to Expect: We are proud to be a rugged, authentic rescue sanctuary. You won't find commercialized, paved walkways here. Instead, you'll experience a true farm environment with free-roaming rescued ducks, dirt paths, and incredible up-close encounters with our gentle rescued llamas, sheep, and goats. Dress for the farm, not the city!
🌟 Summer Pro-Tip: Because we are a true farm sanctuary, we have very limited shade. Plan your visit for early in the morning! You'll beat the intense midday heat, and catch the animals when they are most active.
At just a few dollars per person (infants under 12 months are free), we aren't an exhausting, expensive theme park. Relax for an hour or two without breaking the bank.
📍 The Perfect Cross-Bridge Itinerary
Make the most of your Delaware day trip by pairing your morning zoo visit with these stops on the way back to Jersey:
- ⚓ The Historic Waterfront Route: After feeding the rescues, drive north to Historic New Castle. Let the kids run off energy at Battery Park on the water, and grab an incredible colonial-era meal at Jessop's Tavern before crossing the bridge home.
- 🍎 The Local Charm Route: Swing by Willey Farms in Townsend to explore their massive indoor farm market, unique snacks, and fresh baked goods.
- 🚢 The Canal Route: Take the scenic route home through Chesapeake City. Grab some ice cream by the water and watch the massive cargo ships pass through the C&D Canal!
Explore 3 Palms Zoo
Want to see who lives at the sanctuary before making the drive?
Start your morning adventure now.
Put us directly into your GPS below to start navigating.
⚠️ Critical GPS Warning
GPS units fail here constantly. They often tell you to turn onto (or stay on) "Blackbird Forest Rd." This is wrong. You must turn onto Vandyke Greenspring Rd to find our entrance.