VIP Bearizona Backstage Bus Tour with Animal Encounters

This wildlife park delivers a unique combination experience that seems to really resonate with families. The drive-through portion gets consistent praise for allowing incredibly close encounters with bears and other animals right from your car, which reviewers describe as the highlight. Many visitors recommend arriving early to beat crowds and get the best viewing experience. The walking zoo area complements the safari-style drive nicely, with well-cared-for animals and educational shows that keep kids engaged. The staff clearly takes good care of the rescued animals here, and most guests appreciate the natural, wooded setting that makes it feel authentic rather than overly commercialized. A few visitors felt the experience was shorter than expected or wanted to see more variety in the animal exhibits. One reviewer had an unfortunate interaction in the gift shop that dampened their visit, though this seems to be an isolated incident. Overall, families looking for that safari vibe without leaving the Southwest tend to have a great time, especially if they focus on the drive-through portion which delivers those memorable up-close wildlife moments.