Do I need to purchase a general admission ticket?

Yes, a general admission ticket to Mitchell’s Petting Zoo is required in addition to the kangaroo encounter booking.

Are children allowed to participate?

Yes, the experience is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

How many guests can join each encounter?

Each kangaroo encounter accommodates up to four people.

Is feeding the kangaroos included?

Yes, bottle feed is included in the encounter price.

Can I take pictures during the encounter?

Absolutely, photography is encouraged to capture these special moments.

What are the operating hours for the zoo?

Please check Mitchell’s Petting Zoo official website for up-to-date hours and availability.

Meet Rose & Jack: An Up-Close Kangaroo Encounter in Sweetwater, Tennessee | Zoo

Sweetwater, Tennessee, may not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of Australian wildlife, but Mitchell's Petting Zoo & Exotics delivers a uniquely immersive experience that transports visitors directly into the world of Red Kangaroos. Their Kangaroo Encounter is a brief yet unforgettable 25-minute adventure designed for all ages and up to four guests per session. This hands-on interaction lets you bottle feed and pet two charming kangaroos named Rose and Jack in a natural, open-air pasture setting, guided by a knowledgeable zookeeper who shares insights into the species’ behavior, diet, and lifestyle.

Located just outside downtown Sweetwater, Mitchell's Petting Zoo plays a special role in this region’s outdoor recreation scene by offering a rare chance to engage closely with exotic animals alongside the more common southern wildlife. Unlike traditional zoos, this encounter brings you face-to-face with the gentle giants of Australia’s outback without leaving Tennessee — a remarkable experience for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The openness of the kangaroo pasture provides a relaxed atmosphere to take vivid photographs and learn about the kangaroos’ unique adaptive features firsthand.

The park emphasizes sustainable animal care, maintaining a habitat that closely mimics the kangaroos’ native environment. Visitors leave with not only memories but a greater appreciation for wildlife conservation efforts beyond local borders. Mitchell's Petting Zoo is essential for those wanting a quick, engaging wildlife experience in the southeast U.S. with a global twist.

The encounter requires a general admission ticket to the zoo, ensuring guests get full access to the grounds and other animals after their kangaroo time. With feeding supplies included, all you need to do is show up with a spirit of curiosity and an appetite for discovery. Sweetwater itself offers quaint accommodations and dining, making a day trip or short stay an easy addition to your Tennessee itinerary.

If you're looking for an authentic encounter that combines education, interaction, and the chance to capture unique photos, this kangaroo experience stands out among land-adventure activities in a region better known for rivers and hiking trails. The combination of expert care, attentive staff, and up-close animal interaction positions Mitchell's Petting Zoo as a must-do for anyone visiting eastern Tennessee with an interest in wildlife and family-friendly outdoors experiences.

About Mitchell’s Petting Zoo & Exotics

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.