We love the Louisville Zoo, especially encounters that give guests a behind-the-scenes view of animals' lives. But here are 3 more ways to visit animals that live outside of Derby City.

Kentucky Down Under, 3700 L&N Turnpike Rd., Horse Cave

This adventure destination — 90 minutes from downtown — gives guests the opportunity to feed and pet kangaroos, albino wallabies, and emus.

Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm, 1831 Paynes Depot Rd., Georgetown

Head about an hour southeast of LOU to get up close and personal with ~15 thoroughbred retirees, including 1997 Kentucky Derby winner Silver Charm and Hall of Fame member Lava Man.

Waddy Bluegrass Alpacas, 1800 Scott Pike, Waddy

Just 45 minutes outside of LOU, t our-goers will visit Suri and Huacaya Alpacas who supply the fiber used to make handmade alpaca-finished goods like socks and scarves, which are sold in the farm store.