Animal Paradise owners add live nativity scene

The park is owned by Tony and Lisa Ann Oddo, who purchased the property – formerly known as Exotic Animal Paradise – in June 2006 from former owners Ron and Linda Armitage.

Originally, the Oddos planned to close the park to make way for a housing development and golf course, but they have since changed the park’s name, renovated some features and announced plans to add a miniature golf course, batting cages and a catch-and-release bass fishing area.

The live nativity scene, presented by First Baptist Church of Strafford, will begin at 6 p.m. Dec. 21–22. The drive through is open 6–9 p.m. Thursdays and 6–11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 23.

The fee is $10 per person; tram rides are available for $5, with a minimum of 10 people. Visitors who bring nonperishable food items to donate to Ozarks Food Harvest receive a $1 discount on admission.