Kids get a close-up look at Galapagos tortoises at Casa de Tortuga. Walter Allen's turtle pursuit began 35 years ago, when he met someone who owned box turtles. Allen's collection grows each spring and summer, as he seeks new species, as his reproduce and as people drop off pets they no longer want. The casa never turns away a turtle. It avoids overcrowding by maintaining an adoption program.
Life is good at the casa.
The last of these can grow to 600 pounds. After a morning of ogling exotic animals, a simple burger and fries doesn't seem appropriate for lunch. Cafe Plaka serves Greek cuisine. It's open for dinner 5 to 10 p.m. daily.