Ages 8+ • 25 Minutes • Up to 2 Guests
Step inside Princess Peanut’s enclosure at Mitchell's Petting Zoo in Sweetwater, Tennessee, and enjoy a rare 25-minute hands-on encounter with a two-toed sloth. Learn, feed, and connect with this gentle exotic in an unforgettable wildlife experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
25 minutes
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for children ages 8 and up
Wildlife
History
Sweetwater is historically tied to East Tennessee’s trailblazing and Appalachian culture, offering a mix of natural and cultural heritage.
Conservation
Mitchell's Petting Zoo practices ethical care and educates visitors on exotic species conservation and animal welfare.
Mitchell’s Petting Zoo & Exotics
Ages 8+ • 25 Minutes • Up to 2 Guests
Mitchell’s Petting Zoo & Exotics in Sweetwater, Tennessee provides hands-on animal interactions and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
The facility features a petting zoo area and specialized exotic encounters that include named ambassadors and trained staff supervision. Signature offerings include 25-minute encounters with capybaras Jelly Roll and Bunnie, a two-toed sloth named Princess Peanut, red kangaroos Rose and Jack, and black-tailed prairie dogs Goose and Cracker. General admission gives access to a variety of animals where guests can cuddle goats, feed deer, and enjoy up-close viewing of exotic species.
The operation schedules timed encounters to ensure safe, focused interactions. Trained staff guide each encounter, provide animal care information, and supervise handling and photography to prioritize animal welfare and visitor safety. Encounters are designed to be both educational and memorable, combining close contact with facts about behavior, diet, and habitat.
Mitchell’s emphasizes animal health and responsible handling practices. Appropriate sanitation, supervised feeding, and controlled access to enclosures are standard procedures. The business serves families, school groups, and animal enthusiasts seeking an accessible, hands-on wildlife experience near Sweetwater.
Located in Monroe County, Mitchell’s Petting Zoo & Exotics offers a convenient rural destination for day visits and special event bookings. Visitors are encouraged to review specific encounter details and booking requirements before arrival to confirm availability and age or size restrictions. Parking is available on site and the venue often accommodates private groups and educational visits with advance notice; guests should consult the business's booking page for hours and reservation policies.
Location
Sweetwater, TN
Monroe County location
Encounter Length
25 minutes
Timed, supervised 25-minute encounters
Experiences
5 Offered
Hands-on visits for all ages
Animal Ambassadors
5 Ambassadors
Includes named capybaras and sloth
Book 25-minute capybara, sloth, kangaroo, or prairie dog encounters — or purchase general admission for a full petting zoo experience.
Book in advance
Encounters are limited to two guests per session; reserving ahead ensures your preferred time.
Bring a camera
Capture close-up photos during the encounter, but avoid using flash to keep the sloth comfortable.
Wear comfortable clothing
Soft, long sleeves are recommended for gentle petting and protection from the enclosure environment.
Purchase general admission
General admission is required in addition to the encounter fee to access the zoo and this experience.
Camera or smartphone
To capture memorable moments with Princess Peanut during the encounter.
Long-sleeve shirt
Protect your arms while petting the sloth and minimize environmental exposure.
Comfortable shoes
Wear comfortable footwear for walking around the zoo grounds before and after the encounter.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during warm-weather visits to Sweetwater.
summer