Zoos in California

There are plenty of zoos throughout the beautiful state of California. From the little-known Fresno Chaffee Zoo to the world-famous zoo in San Diego, there are many places here to meet and greet animals that you would only see on National Geographic. Below is a comprehensive list of all the best zoos in California, along with a quick guide to ensure that your visit is pleasant.

The Best Zoos in California

While there are plenty of zoos in the Golden State that are worth visiting, here are all of the must-see picks that are a cut above the rest.

Map of Zoos in California

Click on the interactive map to learn more about the zoo as well as directions on how to get there. Below is a breakdown of each zoo and what animals you can expect to find.

Big Bear Alpine Zoo, Big Bear Lake

Known as a sanctuary that offers rehabilitation for orphaned, injured, and imprinted animals, the Big Bear Alpine Zoo is one of California’s gems. This zoo is home to birds and animals which exceed 85 different species, where most of the rehabilitated animals are successfully released back into the wild. Some of this zoo’s most well-loved animals include the following:

• Arctic fox
• Bald eagle
• Snowy owls
• Coyotes
• Mule deer
• Bears

The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm during summer which starts from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. During the winter season which starts after Labor Day weekend and ends the Friday before Memorial Day, it is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm.

Tickets for adults (13+) start from $15, while seniors (60+) and children between the ages of 3 to 12 years old start at $10. Furthermore, children under 2 years of age can visit for free and military personnel also pay $10.

Address: 747 Clubview Dr., Big Bear Lake, CA

California Living Museum, Bakersfield

Located on 14-acres of park-like land, the California Living Museum (locally known as CALM) features over 400 species of native plants and animals. You’ll see a wide range of various animals who have been taken in as a result of injuries or illness, where they nursed back to health. Apart from the zoo itself, there is also a wildlife rehabilitation center on the grounds where more animals are cared for and can reach up to 500 animals every year.

The museum has been set up to promote public education on their state’s beloved fauna and flora. Should you decide to visit during the weekend, make sure that you take the kids for a ride on the Central California children’s Railroad. This will take you through the entire grounds of CALM, while the Children’s Park will allow young kids to watch and interact with farm and domestic animals.

Some of the animals you can expect to see here include:

• American beaver
• White pelican
• Barn owl
• Black bear
• Bobcat
• Golden eagle

The CALM is open from Wednesdays to Sundays from 9 am to 4 pm, where admission for adults costs $10. The price for seniors is $7 and $6 is the price for admission for children. Children under the age of 3 can visit for free, as well as military veterans.

Address: 10500 Alfred Harrell Hwy, Bakersfield, CA

California Science Center, Los Angeles

The California Science Center, located inside Exposition Park welcomes visitors to explore and study the hundreds of interactive exhibits they have which includes topics such as:

• Human innovation
• Powered light
• Environment
• Life sciences

This zoo also features an Ecosystems gallery, where you’ll find various environments that is divided into eight themes:

• Forest Zone
• Extreme Zone
• L.A. Zone
• Global Zone
• Island Zone
• River Zone
• Family Discovery Room
• Rot Room

Moreover, the California Science Center is home to a 188,000-gallon tank that holds a kelp forest and a transparent tunnel at the bottom. It offers an unspoiled view of the forest’s inhabitants, including moray eels, bat rays, and leopard sharks. There are also the SKETCH Foundation Air and Space Exhibits that display a wide range of space and air crafts such as jet planes and space capsules from the Gemini, Apollo, and Mercury missions.

The Creative World area is focused on transport and structures, while the World of Life exhibit features the biological process of all living creatures. You’ll also find the IMAX Theater here, complete with surround sound and a seven-story screen that brings life to the smallest atom and the vast universe. Other popular exhibits include the Space Shuttle Endeavour and the Weingart Foundation Gallery.

Address: 700 Exposition Park Dr.

Charles Paddock Zoo, Atascadero

If you want to see animals from around the world, the Charles Paddock Zoo is the place to be. This zoo is dedicated to the conservation of both exotic and local species, which means that you’ll encounter animals you would commonly see along with a few rarities that will amaze you. With hundreds of animals in their care, you can expect to see a wide assortment, including animals from the following areas:

• Indo Burma: Red panda, blood python, Malayan tiger
• Andes: Caribbean flamingo, Patagonian mara, spider monkeys
• Madagascar: Tortoises, fossa, lemurs
• West Africa: Meerkats, duiker, porcupines
• California: Burrowing owl, greater roadrunner
• Animals from around the world: Gila monster, American alligator, Bennett’s Wallaby

Many of these residents are getting the help they need, where they are placed under globally managed programs to preserve their habitats. In 1955, this zoo was founded by Charles Paddock, a park ranger who wanted to help rescue injured and threatened wildlife. The zoo is open from 10 am to 4 pm daily during summer, and tickets are affordable, making it a great side trip during your visit to Atascadero.

Address: 9100 Morro Road, Atascadero, CA

CuriOdyssey, San Mateo

At CuriOdyssey, you’ll see wild animals up-close and personal, while many science exhibits capture your imagination. It serves as a home to almost 100 rescued animals, most of which are native to California. This zoo will provide the whole family with a fun way to spend the day and will introduce you to plenty of animals, such as:

• Rose hair tarantula
• California tiger salamander
• Blue-tongued skink
• River otter
• Barn owl
• And more

Inside this science playground and zoo, animals are given a safe place where they can live as they would in the wild and thrive. Their custom-designed exhibits are hosted in a beautiful garden and have a focus on reflections, perceptions, patterns, and physical forces in nature. Memberships can be purchased at the zoo’s website and cost $145 for the whole family, which comes with free parking and registration access to their camps.

Location: 1651 Coyote Point Drive, San Mateo

Farm Sanctuary’s Animal Acres, Acton

This 26-acre sanctuary in Southern California is situated within a gorgeous hacienda ranch just 45 minutes away from Hollywood. From the moment you step foot in this area, you’ll know that it’s a special place. You’ll meet various rescued animals here, including:

• Pigs
• Cows
• Turkeys
• Chickens
• Other farm animals

These animals once started their lives in harsh conditions, being abused and neglected. Through this sanctuary, they are given new lives where they happily bask in the sun, digging dirt, and napping when they please. They’re not only given full freedom and attention to recovering from injuries but also to remain safe and healthy.

When you visit this great farm, you have the option to go on an hour-long tour with a tour guide where you’ll meet many of the resident animals on your way. These tours are available throughout the year and they start promptly, so be sure to arrive 15 minutes in advance. However, keep in mind that they are only available on Saturdays and Sundays.

Address: 5200 Escondido Canyon Road, Acton, CA

Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary, Folsom

Established in 1963, the Folsom Zoo Sanctuary works to promote the responsible and appropriate behavior of humans towards animals. While this zoo is smaller compared to Sacramento Zoo, it is just as impressive with a wide range of animals under its care. Found right at the heart of the city, rescued creatures of all kinds can be found here, such as:

• Birds
• Primates
• Bobcats
• Squirrels
• Bears
• Farm animals

If checking out nearly one hundred animals isn’t enough of an incentive to get your kids to come along, then a nice train ride around the grounds might just do it. Apart from being ideal for exploration on foot, Folsom Zoo offers a miniature-scale live steam train that travels through Lion’s Park. This zoo welcomes 100,000 visitors every year within its park-like environment, where you’ll also find children’s play areas, tables, and BBQs that will ensure an enjoyable visit.

Address: 403 Stafford Street, Folsom

Fresno Chaffee Zoo, Fresno

If you don’t already have a passion for conservation, the Fresno Chaffee Zoo will certainly ignite your curiosity for the natural world. It offers a close look at various creatures from all over the world — its 39-acre land is home to around 200 species of animals. Their Central Valley exhibition transports visitors to Africa, where it is made to look just like the plains and savannah landscapes of the continent.

Also native to Africa are the animals they care for, which includes the following:

• Elephants
• Giraffes
• Wildebeests
• Lions
• And more

You’ll usually find these beasts grazing, frolicking, lounging, and basking in the sun where they enjoy their days in this modern Jurassic Park. You can also take the Twiga Trail where you can see the giraffes up close and even feed them. Some of the attractions you can look forward to seeing include:

• Stingray Bay
• Valley farm
• Dino dig
• Sealion cove
• African adventure
• Ross Laird’s winged wonders bird show

Their mission is to provide visitors with a rich experience between humans and animals that will build a closer connection between the two species. The best way to do this is to check out the Doris and Karl Falk Wildlife Education Center, which serves as the zoo’s education department. This amazing zoo is open throughout the year, so you don’t need to wait for a particular season to schedule your visit.

Location: 894 West Belmont Avenue, Fresno

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, San Jose

This small but beautiful 16-acre zoo and amusement park in San Jose originally opened in 1961. However, it was closed in 2008 to make room for big renovations but opened its gates again on March 20, 2010. It is an accredited member of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
You’ll find various exhibits and attractions here, such as the roller coaster, carousel, Puppet Castle Theater, animal hospital, education center, and petting zoo. Be sure to roam throughout the grounds to find many different animals, such as:

• Pygmy goat
• Jaguar
• Corn snake
• Fennec fox
• Parma wallaby
• Blue and gold macaw
• And more

Both kids and adults will enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this park, where staff emphasizes the sustainability and conservation efforts taken to care for the animals that call this zoo their home. Moreover, the Quarters for Conservation program allows Happy Hollow to contribute to conservation initiatives for every ticket and membership bought.

Address: 748 Story Rd, San Jose, CA

Living Coast Discovery Center, Chula Vista

This nonprofit zoo and aquarium are located on Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge on San Diego Bay. It was founded in 1987 where it was first called the Chula Vista Nature Interpretive Center and is open from Thursday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. This beautiful zoo and aquarium feature a unique mix of animals native to the coastline of Southern California, which includes:

• Sharks
• Green sea turtles
• Rays
• Eagles
• Owls
• Reptiles
• And more

There are also plenty of exhibits to see here, which includes the following:

• Turtle lagoon
• Shark & ray experience
• Discovery center galleria
• Raptor row
• Shorebird aviary
• Eagle mesa
• Native plant gardens

The Living Coast Discovery Center is made up of a community of wildlife ambassadors, volunteers, wildlife ambassadors, and nationwide partners. They aim to encourage the community to care for and connect with our coastal environment. For over 30 years, this zoo has provided community education programs and averages 80,000 visitors each year.

Address: 1000 Gunpowder Point Dr. Chula Vista, CA

Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, Palm Desert

Located near Palm Springs, this 1,200-acre facility is a non-profit zoo and botanical garden that’s home to over 150 species and hosts more than 150,000 visitors every year. The Living Desert exclusively focuses on animals from deserts all over the world, with an emphasis on animals and plants from California’s Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. It provides kids and their families with the perfect opportunity to see desert animals closer than they’ve ever been, which include:

• Cheetah
• Ostrich
• Badger
• Mexican wolf
• Echidna
• Kookaburra
• And more

You’ll be able to enjoy special experiences such as feeding giraffes and riding the G-Scale Model Train which can take you around the various areas of the zoo. The best times to visit are during the morning and the evening when various creatures are most active and away from the sun’s heat. You can also get access to a nature preserve and three hiking trails that host a wide range of plants and cacti.

This zoo has different opening hours depending on the season: 8 am to 5 pm from October 1 to May 31 and between 7 am to 1:30 pm from June 1 to September 30. For those who wish to visit, $24.95 is the fee for adults, $22.95 for seniors, and $14.95 for kids between the ages of 4 to 12. Children who are 3 and younger are welcome to come in for free.

Address: 47900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert, CA

Los Angeles Zoo, Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Zoo is without a doubt one of the best zoos in the state and is even known internationally. It’s a great place to visit with kids and offers plenty to see and do, and is known as a gem of lush vegetation that hosts 7,500 plants from every habitat in the world. Across 133 acres, the majestic Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is the home of over 2,200 animals, where more than 58 species are endangered. Some of their residents include:

• African bush elephants
• Red-bellied piranhas
• Sumatran tigers
• Two-toed sloths
• Mandrills
• Tasmanian devil
• And much more

There are various exhibits to explore in the LA zoo, including the LAIR (which houses over 60 reptile, amphibian, and invertebrate species), the Elephants of Asia habitat, and the Rainforest of the Americas. Other experiences you can try include the “Flamingo Mingle,” feeding giraffes, and more activities behind the scenes. The zoo has also been at the center of the successful and ongoing conservation efforts of keeping the California condor away from extinction.

Address: 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA

Micke Grove Zoo, Lodi

Micke Grove Zoo is located inside the Micke Grove Regional Park and is another one of the best-hidden gems in California. Despite being a smaller zoo, this 5-acre treasure trove is full of all kinds of animals you’ve probably never heard of. It’s home to both exotic and native animals from all over the world, including the endangered black-and-white-ruffled lemur and cotton-top tamarin.

Moreover, the zoo has successfully bred many threatened species, which has helped to secure their numbers, including:

• Chilean pudu
• Waldrep ibis
• Western pond turtle
• Marbled Teal
• Cape thick-knee
• Prevost’s squirrel

The zoo first opened its gates in 1957, which is a lot different from what stands there today. Micke Grove Park and Zoo were also given as a gift to San Joaquin County from William and Julia Harrison Micke, who were local philanthropists. Their legacy can be seen in the stunning oak forested park and other attractions, such as the Fun Town at Micke Grove Amusement Park, San Joaquin County Historical Museum, and the Japanese Garden.

Address: 11793 Micke Grove Road, Lodi

Oakland Zoo, Oakland

The San Francisco Bay Area also has a zoo that can rival many on this list and is one that’s recognized for its exceptional animal care and its extensive elephant care program. Oakland zoo offers a wide range of animal exhibits and is a wonderful addition to your visit to North California. Even with a smaller size, it provides a unique experience that you won’t get from bigger, more crowded zoos.

Just a few of the animals you can expect to see here include:

• Monkeys
• Meerkats
• Camels
• Zebras
• And more

Moreover, this zoo is the only home of African elephants in the bay area. The zoo has also expanded to include the California Trail expansion, which features eight new exhibits that make it even more stunning. This great experience provides visitors with the chance to encounter California wildlife, which includes California condors and American black bears.

Address: 9777 Golf Links Road, Oakland

Orange County Zoo, Orange

The Orange County Zoo has a focus on plants and animals that are native to areas in the southwestern US. Located inside Irvine Regional Park, many of the creatures here are confiscated, orphaned, injured, or no longer able to live in the wild. This is a smaller zoo, which makes it great for kids who might get too tired walking around the bigger zoos.
Families will be able to observe various animals here, such as:

• Bald eagles
• Turkey vultures
• Black bears
• Mountain lions
• Porcupines
• And more

You can also expect to see a wide range of barnyard animals, including:

• Jacob sheep
• Goats
• Pheasants
• Doves

This zoo provides many educational programs that talk about the kinds of food and treats the animals are given, the names of their coyotes, and even the age of their bald eagles. There are two attractions available here, and you can have the chance to see them at such low prices. Entering the park will generally cost $3 to $5 for each vehicle, while admission fees are only $2 per person for visitors who are aged 3 and above.

Address: 1 Irvine Park Rd., Orange, CA

Pacific Marine Mammal Center, Laguna Beach

The Pacific Marine Mammal Center first began in 1971 as Friends of the Sea Lion with just three volunteers: Dr. Rose Ekeberg, John Cunningham, and Jim Stauffer. Today, it is still primarily run by volunteers who dedicate their time and effort to the rehabilitation of animals. This beautiful facility encourages visitors to meet some of their rescued patients who are in recovery.

Some of the animals under their care include:

• California sea lions
• Pacific harbor seals
• Northern elephant seals
• Northern fur seals
• Sea turtles

Here, you’ll be able to dive into the world of marine mammals through their one-hour marine mammal education programs. Furthermore, the PMMC is part of the Pollinator Partnership, which aims to help increase pollinator numbers through research, education, and conservation. You’ll find the visitor yard full of marine mammal artifacts, interactive displays, along with a gift shop.

Address: 20612 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA

Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo, Palo Alto

Located in Palo Alto, California, the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo was founded in 1934 by Josephine O’Hara and started in the basement of an elementary school. This small zoo held around 200 species of indigenous wildlife, including:

• Raccoons
• Bobcats
• Hedgehogs
• Bats
• Ducks
• Snakes
• And more

It provides the perfect place to explore with your kids, where the museum houses an interactive science exhibit that changes once every few years. Visitors are allowed to witness the fun and engaging displays inside this 2,500-square-foot indoor zoo. Moreover, they offer students with science classes where over 14,000 students participate every year.

While this zoo may be a lot smaller than the others, it provides visitors with an intimate experience that makes it much more attractive for parents. Here, you can truly enjoy the company and the amazement of your kids as you wander around the museum. Moreover, your kids won’t get lost, so everyone wins.

Address: 1451 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto, CA

Sacramento Zoo, Sacramento

Opening on June 2, 1927, Sacramento zoo once had only 40 animals, where it occupied a small space of 4.2 acres until the 1960s when it expanded to the current size of 14.3 acres. It is located in William Land Park, and as of December 2012, it had more than 500 animals in its care. There is a wide range of creatures here, where there are native, rare, and endangered species in the mix, which include:

• Chimpanzee
• African cheetah
• Grevy’s Zebra
• Red Kangaroo
• Madagascar giant day gecko
• Ball python
• And more

This family-friendly zoo is the perfect place to teach children to respect and appreciate wildlife and to take part in the efforts for their conservation. Some of the best exhibits in the zoo include close encounters with alligators, feeding giraffes, watching primates, and learning about the zoo’s residents. If you’re visiting Sacramento for a getaway, be sure to visit this zoo for more fun with the whole family.

Address: 3930 West Land Park Drive, Sacramento

Safari West, Santa Rosa

This 400-acre private wildlife preserve is operated and owned by Nancy and Peter Lang. It takes part in the conservation, education, research, and breeding programs that keep the healthy population of the animals involved in the program. Located 12 miles north of Santa Rosa city, this park carries various species that are native to Africa, including:

• Hyenas
• Cape buffalo
• Rhinoceros
• Antelope
• Cheetahs
• Primates
• Various birds

While it’s not like typical zoos, it was initially built as a breeding facility for critically endangered animals and now serves as a wildlife preserve. Because of these tireless efforts, this park is home to some species that are already extinct in the wild. As of 2017, Safari West is home to more than 800 animals and approximately 80 different species.

If you wish to stay here for more than a day, you may inquire about their luxurious safari tents for a fun and relaxing experience.

Address: 3115 Porter Creek Road, Santa Rosa

San Diego Zoo, San Diego

San Diego Zoo is known as the most famous zoo in the world — it is home to over 3,700 endangered and rare animals that represent 660 species and over 700,000 plants. To house such a huge variety of animals, the zoo is situated on a 100-acre land built to look and simulate the animals’ natural habitats, full of lush vegetation. If you’re looking for a unique experience, this zoo offers Backstage Passes, reserved seating at shows, and a private tour.

Some of the must-see exhibits at the San Diego Zoo include:

• The Australian Outback, where you can see koalas
• Polar bear plunge
• The hippos
• A state-of-the-art elephant enclosure
• Keeper Talks where you can learn more about the animals at the zoo

There are also several special experiences available, such as the Discovery Cart Tour, the 4D Theater, the Inside Look Tour, the Skyfari Aerial Tram, and more. San Diego Zoo is open daily, including holidays where the hours of opening are currently between 9 am to 8 pm. The price of admission for adults is $62, while children between 3 to 11 years old are $52, and kids younger than 2 years old can come in for free.

Address: 2920 Zoo Dr. (in Balboa Park), San Diego, CA

San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Escondido

Previously known as the Wild Animal Park, San Diego Zoo Safari Park delivers an experience that takes you out into the African Safari. This zoo is a sister park to San Diego Zoo, hence they share the same name. Situated on 1,800-acre land, it is home to over 3,600 animals which expand more than 300 species.

Inside, visitors will be able to see various animals such as:

• Lorikeets
• Lemurs
• Wallabies
• Platypuses
• Gazelles
• Lions
• Tigers
• Hippos
• And more

There are also plenty of special experiences to look forward to here, including the Sun Up Cheetah Safari, Behind-the-Scenes Safari, Roar and Snore Safari, and more. Opening hours can vary but are generally open later in the summer, with hours usually from 9 am to 6 pm. Admission for adults usually costs $62, while children between the ages of 3 to 11 years old cost $52, and kids younger than 2 years old may enter for free.

Address: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA

San Francisco Zoo, San Francisco

Located right next to the Pacific Ocean, San Francisco Zoo provides animals with an oasis within the busy city. It started in 1866 as a small menagerie with just one grizzly bear in their care, where they added more and more animals to become the stunning zoo it is today. You’ll find that this 100-acre facility is home to more than 2,000 endangered, rescued, and exotic animals across 250 species.

Among their residents is Koko the gorilla, and the oldest group of rhinoceros in North America. You’ll also get to see zebras, koalas, lions, and kangaroos, which will truly take you into the wild side. There is also plenty of foreign plants and lush foliage that provide an escape from tall buildings.

There are also plenty of exhibits, attractions, and guided zoo experiences for you to explore, including:

• Meeting penguins on Penguin island
• Observing Mexican grey wolves
• Breakfast with Kiona and Kachina, the grizzly bear sisters
• Lipman Lemur Forest, the country’s biggest outdoor lemur habitat

Address: Sloat Boulevard and Great Highway, San Francisco

Santa Ana Zoo, Santa Ana

Santa Ana Zoo is located at Prentice Park, where a 20-acre facility is home to 250 animals. It first opened in 1952 and is operated and owned by the city — each year, this zoo hosts over 270,000 people. The zoo keeps a wide range of primates at the request of Joseph Prentice, who donated land for the zoo. As a result, their primate collection contains more than a dozen species from all over the world.

There are plenty of exhibits to see here, including:

• Colors of the Amazon Aviary
• Monkey row
• Tierra de las Pampas
• Crean Family farm
• Amazon’s edge

Furthermore, the different kinds of animals you’ll see here include:

• Giant anteater
• Ocelot
• Boa constrictor
• Black-necked swan
• Owl monkey
• Great horned owl

Santa Ana Zoo is open from Wednesday to Sunday between 10 am to 5 pm. Adult admission costs $12, while seniors and children between 3 to 12 years old need to pay $9. Kids younger than 2 years old are welcome to experience everything this zoo has to offer for free.

Address: 1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92701

Santa Barbara Zoo, Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Zoo is located on 30 acres of land near the ocean and is known as one of the best small zoos in the whole country. Inside this beautiful park, you’ll encounter around 600 animals across 160 different species living in natural and open habitats. There are also on-site dining options for you to choose from, along with relaxing spots for a picnic, making it highly desirable — it’s best to buy your tickets in advance.

Some of the animals that call this zoo their home include:

• Chinese alligator
• Amazon tree boa
• Giraffes
• Meerkats
• Emus
• Western lowland gorillas

Some of the most well-known exhibits here are:

• African Plains or African Veldt
• Australian Walkabout
• Cats of Africa
• The Forest’s Edge
• California Trails

There are also plenty of activities that the kids can take part in. The zoo is open from Monday to Thursday between 9:30 am to 5 pm and from Friday to Sunday between 10 am to 3:30 pm. Admission for adults costs $19.95, and children between the ages of 2 to 12 years old will cost $14.95, while those under the age of 2 years old can visit for free.

Address: 500 Ninos Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93103

Sequoia Park Zoo, Eureka

Opened in 1907, Sequoia Park Zoo is California’s oldest zoo and is one of the smallest zoos accredited in the country. Located right next to the gorgeous old-growth redwoods in Sequoia park, it is a jewel right at the heart of Eureka. This 7-acre zoo is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including:

• Crested screamers
• Flamingos
• Red pandas
• Yaks
• Rheas
• And farm animals

This family-friendly zoo aims to inspire visitors to help with conservation efforts by instilling passion and respect for our wildlife. There are plenty of animal exhibits with plenty of interactive displays, including:

• Bill’s Garden, which is dedicated to Bill the Chimp
• Walk-through aviary
• Panda-monium
• Watershed hero
• The Barnyard

Apart from these great exhibits, there are plenty of other attractions you’ll love, such as the Redwood Skywalk, Ecos Cafe, and the gift shop. Admissions are higher for non-residents of Humboldt County, while residents will need to show proof of residency to get discounts. Visitors may also purchase memberships, and animal lovers are welcome to donate to help the animals in this great zoo.

Address: 3414 W Street, Eureka, CA

Shambala Preserve, Acton

In Sanskrit, the word Shambala means: “A Meeting Place of Peace and Harmony for all Beings, Animal and Human.” Established in 1972, Shambala Preserve is an animal sanctuary that provides a home for over 65 animals, including:

• African elephant
• Serval
• Tigon
• Lynx
• Snow leopard
• Liger

These animals were given to the preserve following their confiscation by authorities from private citizens and roadside zoos that can no longer care for these animals. Shambala Preserve serves these animals to the best of its ability and doesn’t breed, buy, sell, trade, or use them commercially. Once they enter Shambala, the animals are cared for properly, so they can live out the rest of their lives in comfort and with dignity.

The Roar Foundation helps to maintain Shambala and is a non-profit organization that aims to provide the big cats with all they need to live. There are many ways in which you can support them:

• Become a member
• Enter their adoption program
• Donate an item on their wish list
• Volunteer

A Guide to Visiting Zoos in California

With the ongoing pandemic, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure that you and the people around you will be able to enjoy everything these California zoos have to offer:

• Everyone loves zoos during spring and fall, so there will be crowds, especially on weekends. Please plan ahead of time to avoid traffic and rush hours.
• At least one adult is required to stay per 5 children at all times. Do not leave children unattended and do not let them out of your sight.
• Please observe the strict “no feeding” policy that many zoos have to keep their animals healthy.
• All visitors over the age of two are required to wear a mask that covers the mouth and nose while visitng zoos (except when eating).
• Visitor groups are required to stay 6 feet apart inside the zoo grounds.
• Visitors with COVID-19 symptoms will not be permitted to enter zoos. If you are sick, you should stay home fior the safety of the animals and others.
• Do not touch your face unless they are freshly cleaned.
• It’s best to wear running shoes or something comfortable for your feet since most zoos will have gravel trails.
• Most people also bring their food since they can be expensive inside the zoos and there aren’t many options.

Conclusion
While you might be surprised at the number of amazing zoos right here in California, you now have more reasons to get out there and go on that trip you’ve always wanted. Whether you want to visit Los Angeles, Sacramento, or San Diego, you’ll find something new at every one of these once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Once you step into these zoos, you might just find yourself lost in Brazil, the Amazon, and even Africa, so be sure to bring everything you need to make the most out of these animal sanctuaries.

Looking to explore California? Here are some other great things to do in the state: