The Los Angeles Zoo is a treasure trove for families seeking both entertainment and education. With its immersive habitats, interactive zones, and thoughtfully designed programs for children of all ages—plus flexible ticketing options and sensory accommodations—it’s a compelling destination. Whether you’re feeding goats in the children’s zoo, cooling off in shaded gardens, or catching a live bird show, the Zoo delivers a memorable day out for kids and parents alike.
Nestled within the lush Griffith Park, the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens spans 133 acres and hosts over 1,400 animals across 270+ species, alongside more than 800 plant varieties in its scenic gardens. It’s a true destination for families, offering a wealth of interactive experiences. At the heart of the children’s area is the Winnick Family Children’s Zoo, complete with petting zones where kids can meet and groom goats and sheep on “Muriel’s Ranch.” Nearby, the Neil Papiano Play Park invites all ages to climb, splash through water misters, and enjoy sensory-friendly equipment—designed for inclusive fun. Meanwhile, the World of Birds Show and daily keeper talks (like “Chimp Chat” and Gorilla presentations) draw in families eager for energetic live demonstrations.
For hands-on learning, the Zoo’s Family Nature Club hosts free outdoor sessions on select Saturday mornings, while weekday and summer Zoo Camps let kids immerse themselves in wildlife through nature-themed adventures, crafts, and games. For sensory needs, the Zoo is certified by KultureCity: families can access quiet zones, headphones, and visual tools—thanks to thoughtful design throughout the park.
Tickets, Admission, and Where to Buy
General admission is priced at $22 for adults (ages 13–61), $19 for seniors (62+), and $17 for children (ages 2–12); children under two are free. Tickets should be reserved in advance online through the Zoo’s official site under the “Plan your visit Reservations” section. On-site, the box office also offers discounts for military personnel ($3 off adult tickets, $2 off child tickets) and reciprocal zoo members. Budget-conscious families may access free admission through the Discover & Goprogram with an L.A. Public Library card—allowing up to four guests free entry per district per day
Must-See Attractions for All Ages
Campo Gorilla Reserve: A spacious, waterfall-fringed habitat giving dramatic, close-up views of western lowland gorillas
Chimpanzees of the Mahale Mountains: A pioneer exhibit lauded by Jane Goodall, featuring multi-level viewing of one of the country’s largest chimp troops
The LAIR: A dynamic indoor-outdoor complex for amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates—featuring everything from dart frogs to Gila monsters
Red Ape Rainforest: A memorable walk-through habitat modeled after a Southeast Asian jungle, home to spirited Bornean orangutans
Rainforest of the Americas: This vibrant area showcases tropical wonders—jaguars, harpy eagles, river otters and stingrays among them
Elephants of Asia: A grand exhibit with pools, hills, and deep cultural interpretation—though currently without elephants following their transfer in May 2025.
New Cape Vulture Exhibit: Opened recently in the Africa section, featuring seven Cape vultures in a habitat designed to support nesting and natural social behavior.
On top of these, visitors can enjoy free-flight bird shows, the conservation carousel, and a hop-on Safari Shuttle ($5 for adults, $2.50 for kids) for easier navigating across the park
Planning Tips & Visitor Info
Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily (last entry 3:45 p.m.); animals typically retire by 4 p.m. Closed on Thanksgiving and December 25.
Accessibility: Strollers, wheelchairs, and scooters are available, and the Zoo features sensory zones certified by KultureCity.
Parking & Food: Free parking and the option to bring your own food (many visitors highlight it as a great value)
Special events: Look out for Zoo Friday Nights in summer with extended hours, DJs, cooler weather, and lighter crowds—tickets recommended in advance
