If you go to the right spot in Audubon Park, you can see the giraffes in Audubon Zoo over the fences. But sometimes a glimpse isn't enough. So this week Julie and I went to the Global Wildlife Center in Folsom, Louisiana. It was an hour's drive and we had to take the causeway over the Pontchartrain River, but it was well worth the trip.

We love this place!! It's a nonprofit that focuses on species welfare and conservation, and they do a great job of making their safari drives super fun. The tours cost $17 for adults, and no reservations are needed — just show up and get your tickets from the gift shop. Check out their website and VISIT THEM!! Our tour guide was Dan and our driver was Jamie, they took really good care of us and were so cute because you could tell they were in love with the animals. So were we!!!

These guys really got up close and personal.

Expect many safari-inspired paintings to come!!