la zoo visit

Combined Shape .st0{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#fff} .st0{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#fff} SMS Main navigation Things to Do Attractions & Tours Arts & Culture Outdoors & Wellness Shopping Budget Family Hidden Gems Luxury Pet-Friendly Eat & Drink Bars Clubs Dine LA Restaurant Week Restaurants Business Spotlight Find Events Itineraries Where to Stay Celebrate LA Heritage AAPI Heritage Black LA Latino Heritage LGBTQ+ Tourist Information Meetings About LA Tourism Travel Trade Membership Business Spotlight Media Research Careers Today's must read Hidden Gems of Los Angeles Log in Search Search Things to Do Attractions & Tours The Guide to the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens by Discover Los Angeles   May 10, 2023 Share Been There Login Register My Next Trip Login Register Attractions Opened in November 1966, the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens  is one of the city’s most popular destinations, drawing nearly two millions visitors each year, and for good reason. It is home to more than 2,100 animals representing over 270 species, many rare or endangered. So whatever your favorite - meerkats or mandrills, komodo dragons or kangaroos - chances are you’ll get to see them here. Cool, overcast days offer some of the best viewing opportunities. But even on a hot summer afternoon there's plenty to see and do. The L.A. Zoo is open 10am to 5pm every day of the year except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day (December 25).

Getting Around

The Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens spans 133 acres. There's lots of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Strollers, wheelchairs, and scooters are available to rent on a first come, first served basis. Purchases must be made with a credit card. The rentals are sanitized before and after each use.

Another option is the Safari Shuttle , which stops at six different spots along the perimeter of the zoo. There is an additional charge to use the shuttle. Tickets are $5 for adults and $2.50 for kids 2-12. You can ride it as often as you like.

KultureCity

In March 2022, the Los Angeles Zoo was certified by world-renowned non-profit KultureCity as a sensory inclusive venue. The Zoo joins over 900 other KultureCity certified venues in five countries serving those with sensory needs.

At the International Marketplace, sensory bags equipped with noise canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads will be available to all guests who may benefit from their use. Prior to visiting the Zoo, families should download the free KultureCity App from the App or Google Play Stores, where they can view what sensory features are available at the Zoo and where they can access them. Also on the app is the Social Story, which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying a day at the L.A. Zoo.

If you are a family of four with school-age kids and you plan to visit the zoo more than once in the coming months, it is well worth becoming a member at the Family level . You’ll enjoy unlimited free visits during your membership, express zoo entry, members' only exhibit previews, docent led tours, discounts at zoo gift shops and restaurants, and free or discounted admission to more than 170 zoos and aquariums, including 15 in California.

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Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Top ways to experience Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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The Los Angeles Zoo Family Guide

By: Author Wendy Kennar

Posted on Last updated: April 17, 2024

Updated for 2023

The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is now open for families, with advanced ticketing and safety precautions in place. Families can visit and enjoy seeing the animals and exhibits.

The LA Zoo is located within Griffith Park and has been a family favorite for years. The Griffith Park Zoo opened in 1912 with just fifteen animals, a few miles from the current Zoo site.

Today, you’ll find more than 2000 mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles (representing more than 270 species) on more than 100 acres at the LA Zoo. In addition, you’ll see more than 800 different plant species on site , which is why the words “Botanical Gardens” are in the name.

Zoo Friday Nights Happening in Summer 2023

Friday evenings in July and August 2023, the Zoo is hosting “Zoo Friday Nights,” where you can spend time in the cool of the evening, getting a glimpse of the animals just before they head off to sleep. There are food trucks for grabbing dinner, as well as education stations throughout the Zoo. There’s even a DJ, with music and games for kids and grown-ups, too.

MomsLA was invited to experience the first Zoo Friday Night event of the Summer, and it was really fun! There are fewer people, so you get to see the animals that are still awake with a smaller crowd, and the cooler temps in the evening make it much more enjoyable than on a super hot day. Each Friday there will be different food trucks, so be sure to check before getting your tickets.

Read about all the Best Botanical Gardens in SoCal.

Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens 5333 Zoo Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90027

Table of contents:.

• Los Angeles Zoo Tickets
• Admission Prices and Membership
• LA Zoo Hours
• Los Angeles Zoo Deals and Discounts
• Food and Dining Options
• Virtual Programming and Animal Cams
• Animal Exhibits at the LA Zoo
• Parking Info

Related: The Best Museums for Kids in Los Angeles

LA Zoo Hours:

The LA Zoo is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and is only closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. However, keep in mind that Zoo animals start to go in for the night beginning at 4:00 pm.

Los Angeles Zoo Tickets, Prices, and Membership

How much does the LA Zoo cost? It depends if you are a Member or buying General Admission tickets. See the two tables below with all the info.

General Admission Ticket Prices

Please note that tickets must be reserved and purchased in advance, online via the Zoo’s website. Look for the “Plan your visit” tab, and then find the “reservations” button.

Please also read the rules and safety precautions before you go.

Check the Zoo’s website for any discounts for AAA members, or members of the military, as policies change often.

Related: 11 Zoos to Visit in Southern California

LA Zoo Membership

According to the Zoo’s website, “membership pays for itself in as few as 2 visits per year.” Here are the 4 different membership levels to choose from.

Please note that Members must still reserve tickets ahead of time via the website.

Patron Circle Memberships

These membership levels come at higher price points and allow for more support to go to the Los Angeles Zoo.

About the LA Zoo and the Animals

As you explore the Zoo, you’ll feel as if you’re traveling around the world, observing these beautiful creatures from all across the globe. You’ll find many exhibits including the Rainforest of the Americas, the Elephants of Asia habitat, the LAIR (Living Amphibians, Invertebrates, and Reptiles), and more.

A few of the many animals you’ll find at the Los Angeles Zoo include Western Lowland Gorillas (a critically endangered species), Asian Elephants, the American Black Bear, Baird’s Tapir, the Bongo, Bornean Orangutans, and even some California Sea Lions.

Want to find more Sea Lions and tons of Marine Life? Check out our Guide to the Aquarium of the Pacific.

Many people ask: does the LA Zoo have koalas? And the answer is yes. This furry marsupial from Australia can be found in a special exhibit that allows them to sleep many hours each day.

The Los Angeles Zoo also has Linnie’s Two-Toed Sloth, Giant Anteaters, and the Sumatran Tiger, all very popular animals.

The LA Zoo does not have any Giant Pandas or Red Pandas, but San Diego does have Red Pandas. They no longer have any Giant Pandas, having returned them to the wild in China. Check out our Guide to the San Diego Zoo next time you’re down there.

Special Experiences at the LA Zoo

At this time, the LA Zoo’s special experiences are temporarily closed , but may re-open soon. Stay tuned to the Zoo’s social media for updates to that policy.

When they are operating, you’ll want to plan to take advantage of the shows and activities that are offered. Giraffe Feedings by Zookeepers or even by Zoo visitors (for an additional fee), Hippo Encounters , the World of Birds Show , and the Elephant Training Demonstrations.

Special Celebrations at the LA Zoo

The Los Angeles Zoo hosts several special events during the year, and they are sure to be new family favorites! Check out the annual Halloween event called Boo at the Zoo, or their Winter celebrations: Reindeer Romp and LA Zoo Lights.

Parking Information at the LA Zoo

The Zoo offers free parking . However, on certain days throughout the year, families can take advantage of the Zoo’s Preferred Parking Program for a cash fee. This program generally operates on busy attendance days (such as holiday weekends and special events). Please check their website for details.

Food and Dining Options at the LA Zoo

The Zoo features several restaurants and eateries so even the pickiest eater will find something yummy to eat when spending a day at the Zoo. Some restaurants are open only on weekends and holidays, so check the website for descriptions of each eatery.

In addition, you can bring in outside food and drink to the Los Angeles Zoo. Check their website for a list of items (such as alcohol, glass containers, or disposable straws) that are not allowed on Zoo property.

Nearby Attractions

Near the Zoo there are tons of fun things to do in Griffith Park , including the Griffith Park Pony Rides and Travel Town, both just a short drive away.

Families can also go for a spin on the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round , a Griffith Park family favorite since 1937. And right across the parking lot from the Zoo is the Autry , and our Guide to the Autry Museum of the American West lets you know all the fun you can have there as well.

MomsLA is your source for Things to do with Kids in Los Angeles

Disclaimer:  MomsLA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, MomsLA makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. MomsLA strongly urges you to confirm any event details, like date, time, location, and admission, with the third party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list. MomsLA is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while attending any third-party event posted on our website. Please read our Terms of Use which you have agreed to based on your continued use of this website. Some events have paid to be listed on MomsLA.

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thirteen things to keep in mind when Visiting  Los angeles zoo

Opening hours

Los Angeles Zoo is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day of the year. The last entry is at 3.45 pm, and animals start to go in for the night at 4 pm.

Duration required

Exploring Los Angeles Zoo with kids typically takes three hours, and taking a lunch break can extend the time. However, visitors who want to wrap up soon can cover most animal exhibits within 90 minutes.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Los Angeles Zoo is when they open at 10 am. Visiting at this time can help you participate in giraffe feedings at 11 am and see the World of Birds show at 12 and 2 pm.

Safari shuttle

The zoo shuttle stops at six places where guests can get on and off. The Safari Shuttle starts at 10 am and continues till 5 pm. The last trip departs at 3:30 pm.

Giraffe Feeding

Feeding the Giraffe starts daily from 11 am to 2.30 pm, and you must purchase three acacia stems for $5. A zoo keeper stands nearby to share information about the animal.

Keeper talks

The keepers know everything about their animals and behaviors, which is an excellent opportunity to learn more. Keeper talk happens in different animal habitats, so check the day’s schedule.

Check for Events

The Los Angeles Zoo offers a variety of shows and activities throughout the year. Check the zoo's website or information booth for schedules and information.

Beat the heat

The sun can be strong in Los Angeles, so it's important to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Carry the map

Carrying the Los Angeles Zoo's map is highly recommended for traveling with kids because it will save time finding the various exhibits and helps identify visitor services.

Comfortable shoes

With more than two thousand animals to see, you will be doing a lot of walking, so wearing comfortable clothing and footwear is recommended.

Take a break

The Los Angeles Zoo California has many food and drink sites that offer various dining options. With all the walking, take a break to recharge yourself.

Book in advance

Los Angeles Zoo tickets are timed, so purchasing the ticket at the venue is not recommended or guaranteed. It is wiser to book the Los Angeles Zoo tickets online in advance.

Entry tickets

This Los Angeles Zoo ticket gets access to all exhibits, keeper talks, feeding sessions, and shows. The last entry to the Zoo is at 3:45 p.m.

Atlanta Zoo

Tips to visit.

11 Best Zoos To Visit In The U.S.

W hen it comes to encountering exotic wildlife and exploring diverse ecosystems, there’s no better place than a well-curated zoo. Every year, TravelAwaits asks its readers to vote for the best zoos in the country as part of our annual Best Of Travel Awards and we’re thrilled to present the 2023 results! Spread across the U.S., these remarkable zoos exemplify the highest standards of visitor experiences, animal care, and conservation efforts.

Drumroll, please! And the best zoo in the country is…

1. San Diego Zoo (Winner)

San diego, california.

Our 2023 Best Of Travel Award winner for Best Zoo in the U.S. is the San Diego Zoo ! Situated in sunny San Diego’s beautiful Balboa Park, this southern California zoo is renowned for its diverse collection of animals and dedication to conservation. With more than 14,000 rare and endangered animals from more than 700 species and subspecies, the zoo provides visitors with an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Open-air, cageless exhibits recreate the animal’s natural habitats. In addition to clouded leopards, bonobos, red pandas, and California condors, the San Diego Zoo is also home to botanical gardens. Take a ride on the  Skyfari Aerial Tram for a bird’s eye view of the whole place!

2. Smithsonian National Zoological Park

Washington, d.c..

Attracting nearly 2 million visitors a year , Smithsonian National Zoological Park is in the heart of our nation’s capital. Established in the late 1800s in an attempt to save several native North American species such as deer, foxes, beavers, and bison from extinction, the national zoo is one of the oldest in the country.

Almost 250 animals representing 20 species reside on the Smithsonian National Zoological Park’s 163 acres. It is one of few zoos in the country that has giant pandas, which is one of its biggest draws. Observe and learn about more familiar members of the animal kingdom, such as the bald eagle, California sea lion, and beaver on the American Trail.

Pro Tip: Admission to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park is free , but parking is limited and pricey. TravelAwaits contributor Sage Scott recommends taking the Metrorail to Cleveland Park and then leaving from Woodley Park, which makes the walk to and from the zoo entirely downhill.

3. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo And Aquarium

Omaha, nebraska.

Nationally recognized for its animal care, exhibit design, and conservation, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is regarded as one of the best zoos in the world. Sprawling over 160 acres, it boasts the largest indoor rainforest in the country and the largest nocturnal exhibit and indoor desert in the world. In the Lied Jungle rainforest exhibit, visitors can look out from behind a 50-foot-high waterfall. Other popular attractions include the 70-foot shark tunnel, Skyfari (the open-air chairlift), and the African Grasslands exhibit where guests can feed a giraffe. Unique species include David’s deer, bongos, Amur tigers, and bush babies.

Pro Tip: Golf cart tours are available for those who don’t want to walk around the large and hilly zoo.

4. Bronx Zoo

New york city, new york.

As the largest metropolitan zoo in the U.S., the Bronx Zoo is a remarkable urban oasis teeming with wildlife. Situated on 265 acres of parkland, the zoo houses over 10,000 animals of more than 700 species. Its incredible variety of exhibits, including Tiger Mountain, Jungleworld, and the Children’s Zoo, allow visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of the animal kingdom. Treetop Adventures invites visitors to don a harness and tackle the ropes course high in the trees and ride the zipline over the Bronx River.

5. Saint Louis Zoo

St. louis, missouri.

Nestled in Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo is renowned for its commitment to conservation and exceptional animal care. Several structures built for the 1904 World’s Fair have been repurposed to showcase over 16,000 animals across the zoo’s 90 acres. With over 600 species, this zoo offers a captivating experience for visitors, featuring exhibits like River’s Edge where visitors can observe hippos, elephants, and gorillas in their natural habitats.

6. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Cincinnati, ohio.

Combining a stunning botanical garden with a top-notch zoo, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is a delightful attraction for nature lovers. Home to adorable hippo siblings, Fiona and Fritz, this zoo showcases a vast collection of animals — over 500 animal and 3,000 plant species — while providing educational programs and conservation initiatives. Check out the University of Cincinnati mascot, the bearcat, in the Night Hunters habitat.

7. ZooTampa At Lowry Park

Tampa, florida.

Situated along the scenic Hillsborough River, ZooTampa at Lowry Park offers a fantastic blend of entertainment and education. Known for its immersive exhibits and interactive experiences, this zoo provides visitors with an opportunity to get up close with animals like manatees, giraffes, and orangutans.

Although it only takes up 24 acres, its habitats are home to 1,100 Asian, African, and Australian animals, plus native Florida wildlife. ZooTampa is also noted for its animal veterinary care and rehabilitation of endangered species.

8. Fort Worth Zoo

Fort worth, texas.

With its commitment to animal conservation and an extensive collection of species, the Fort Worth Zoo stands as a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Spanning 64 acres, the zoo features exhibits like Texas Wild! and African Savanna, providing visitors with a chance to witness the incredible diversity of animal life.

9. Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield, illinois.

Situated in a suburb of Chicago, the Brookfield Zoo is a beloved attraction that combines education, conservation, and family fun. Home to a wide range of animals — including lions, gorillas, and dolphins — Brookfield Zoo offers engaging exhibits and interactive experiences that captivate visitors of all ages.

Over 200 acres feature large exhibits in a wooded setting because it is also an arboretum. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you walk around the flat, midwestern forest. Lying at the center of grassy lanes, the Roosevelt Fountain makes for a great spot to meet up.

10. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Tucson, arizona.

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum offers a unique and immersive experience that showcases the beauty and diversity of the desert ecosystem. Combining a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum, this remarkable institution allows visitors to explore the desert landscapes while encountering animals like javelinas, desert tortoises, and Mexican wolves.

11. Lincoln Park Zoo

Chicago, illinois.

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., offering a delightful escape within the bustling city of Chicago. With its free admission policy, the zoo provides access to a diverse range of animals, from playful primates to majestic big cats, while fostering a deep appreciation for wildlife conservation.

Read more from our 2023 Best Of Travel Awards .

Related Reading:

• 10 Zoos To Visit In The Midwest
• 10 Fantastic U.S. Zoos With Free Admission
• 12 Best Aquariums To Visit In The U.S. (2023)

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

• Activities for Kids
• Uncategorized

What to See & Do at the LA Zoo—an Insider’s Guide to the 133 Acre Park

Mischievous meerkats? Most definitely. Territorial tigers? Totally. Slithering snakes? Sssssertainly. There’s no better place to turn your own wild animals loose than within the spacious grounds of the Los Angeles Zoo that is home to more than 2,100 mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles representing more than 270 different species, of which more than 58 are endangered. And while the zoo is a wonderful place to explore and observe, you can make your visit even better with our in-the-know tips on everything from which exhibits to see and where to get the best eats . Who knows, maybe your kids will soon be leading zoo tours of their very own!

What’s New at the Los Angeles Zoo

If you haven't visited the Los Angeles Zoo recently, there's been some new animals added to the 133 acre park. 

Two new chimpanzees: 22-year-old, Pu’iwa and 8-year-old, Mshindi have arrived and while they are still getting integrated, guests can catch a peek of them in the penthouse habitat which can be viewed from the perimeter of the Safari Shuttle.

And this past April, Masai giraffes, Zainbu and Phillip, welcomed a healthy male calf that stands 6 ft. and 7in. tall—the tallest calf in LA Zoo history! Visitors are invited to view the new calf bonding with mom and dad along with the rest of the giraffe herd, weather permitting.

Everyone has their favorite animals they’re dying to see and when interests vary between kids, it can feel daunting to make everyone happy. Our recommendation is to create a list of the highest priority animals that each member of your pack wants to visit. If the animal is not out when you stop by, ask a nearby volunteer or docent when the animals may out and about again—they are also full of great info about the animals.

Here’s an itinerary that has worked for us and will help make the most of your time at the zoo.

1. Take a quick peek at Reggie the Alligator sunning himself on his favorite rock.

2. Say hi to the pretty-in-pink flamingos as you walk past—make sure to hold your nose cause they are stinky!

3. Then slither over to the LAIR (Living Amphibians, Invertebrates, and Reptiles) . Housed in two, side-by-side buildings, these 49 beautifully themed exhibits feature snakes, scorpions, tarantulas, lizards, frogs, salamanders and other creepy crawlies are sure to knock the scales off of your tiny tadpoles. For those who are looking for a bigger reptile fix, head to the Australia section and drop in on the world’s largest lizard at the Komodo Dragon exhibit.

4. From there, swing over to the Wasserman Family Thai Pavilion at the Elephants of Asia habitat to check out the zoo’s 7,000-pound pachyderms in action. The exhibit features four spectacular viewing areas to watch beloved elephants: Billy, Tina, Jewel and Shaunzi. In addition to the large demonstration yard and stunning waterfall, zookeepers hide treats throughout the habitat for elephants to discover.

5. After you stop for lunch, we recommend heading over to the gorilla habitat. The shady seats by the window are a lovely spot to digest and kids can spend lots of time watching the gentle giants lumber, eat and play. Much like your own young, the juvenile gorillas get pretty feisty after lunch making them even more fun to observe (and relate to).

Insider Tip: For a few extra bucks, you might want to take the Safari Shuttle to the top of the zoo and then walk back toward the entrance, which is mostly downhill. When you get to the top, stop by the Neil Papiano Play Park—because no matter how much you want to check out the animals, your child’s favorite spot is bound to be the playground (where they can go wild and you can have a moment of zen).

As you begin your descent downhill, swing by the Rainforest of the Americas. This two-story Amazonian stilt house serves as an impressive gateway to this multi-species jungle adventure. Here you'll see all sorts of rainforest creatures like howler monkeys, jaguars, otters and stingrays.

Insider Tip: If you're here on the weekend, before heading home, catch a ride on the the Tom Mankewicz Conservation Carousel. It is a does make for a perfect ending to your zoo adventure. Tickets are $3 per ride.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Los Angeles Zoo (@lazoo)

Where & What to Eat at the Los Angeles Zoo

If you opt to bring food from home, our favorite picnic spot is on the shaded steps in front of the chimpanzee exhibit. Watch the chimps do their thing in a habitat Jane Goodall would be proud, while refueling for the rest of your day.

The Neil Papiano Play Park also has picnic tables and restrooms, making it a convenient eating spot, but be forewarned that this place is busiest from noon to 1 p.m. Next to the play area is an edible garden where volunteers grow certain plants as special treats for the animals such as roses, figs, and beets. Catnip grown in this very space provides hours of play for the Zoo’s resident cat population (hey, tigers just want to have fun!).

If bringing your own food isn’t your thing, there are plenty of places throughout the zoo to purchase lunch and special treats. Check out the newly opened Bean Sprouts Cafe—a kid-friendly dining option that specializes in healthy foods for kids and adults including pizza, smoothies, and sandwiches as well as "Imaginibbles," a signature line of themed, hand-held foods designed to make eating healthy fun. 

The Zoo Grill is also a safe bet with some pretty darn delicious chicken tender baskets, hot and cold sandwiches and a decent variety of healthy kids' meals. Or if you want something with more of an upscale feel, check out the gourmet salad and sandwich options at Reggie’s Bistro at the front of the zoo.

And don't forget dessert! The churro sundae with chocolate sauce and whipping cream from the Churro Factory will give everyone the energy kick they need to get through the day.

Everything You Need to Know Before You Go to the LA Zoo

• Advance online reservations are required, and walk-up tickets are not recommended or guaranteed.
• Last entry to the zoo is 3:45 p.m.
• Pack sunscreen, water, snacks, camera, baby wipes and hand sanitizer.
• Don’t feel like lugging a stroller? Rent one at the zoo for $10 (double strollers are $14).
• Here’s the buzz on bees—they love sweet treats like cotton candy and snow cones so keep an eye out. Also, leave sugary drinks at home.
• Need cash? There’s an ATM located at the front of the zoo, just past the International Marketplace. 
• Small coolers and picnic baskets are welcome on zoo grounds. However, glassware and small plastic items such as straws and cup lids are not.
• The LA Zoo is completely wheelchair accessible. From large print maps and wheelchairs for rent to service dogs and guided tours, kids with special needs will be well accommodated!

The LA Zoo Has Received KultureCity's Sensory Inclusion Certificate This mean the LA Zoo supports and provides an enhanced experience for Angelenos with autism, dementia, PTSD, and other sensory needs. According to the Zoo, "If you need support, head to the International Marketplace where you'll find sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads, available to all guests who may benefit from their use. And prior to visiting the Zoo, families can download the free KultureCity App from the App or Google Play Stores where they can view what sensory features are available at the Zoo and where they can access them. Also, on the app, is the Social Story, which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying a day at the L.A. Zoo. Guests interested in knowing more about the new sensory inclusive experience at the L.A. Zoo should visit the Zoo’s website ."

The Best Time to Go to the Los Angeles Zoo

If it jives with your schedule, try to hit up the zoo during the week right after they open when most families are at school or work. Obviously, weekends seem easier for visits, but they’re a total “zoo” people wise.

The earlier in the day you can go, the better as the animals are more active in the mornings, and parking is plentiful! You’ll also get a jump on the heat and avoid those mid-afternoon meltdowns (yours and your kiddos’). Animals start to go inside for the night at 4 p.m., so be sure to allow enough time to see everything before then.

Another great time to visit? Chilly or overcast days often mean that you'll have the zoo all to yourself and you're likely to see animals that hide out on warmer, sunnier days.

Insider Tip: The cycad garden at the front of the zoo contains some of the world’s oldest plant species—so valuable that they contain GPS chips to prevent theft. In fact, these are the exact plants that dinosaurs ate! Be sure to point these incredible specimens out to your little herbivores on the way out of (or into) the zoo.

Good to Know: Want to take your zoo experience on the road? The Los Angeles Zoo sometimes offers travel packages to visit far-flung places where the zoo is making a difference in global wildlife and habitat conservation. Currently on the docket? A 13-day wildlife safari to Botswana. For more information, contact Melissa Grossenbacher at: [email protected] .

Currently Closed Due to COVID-19

As of press time, some of the LA Zoo attractions remain closed due to COVID-19. Out of abundance of caution for the animals, zoo staff and guests, the following activities and exhibits are closed, but please keep checking the LA Zoo website for further updates and possible re-openings.

• Muriel’s Ranch Contact Yard 
• Angela Collier World of Birds Theater & Show
• Talks & Presentations 
• Giraffe Feedings
• Flamingo Mingle
• Treetops Terrace
• California Condor Rescue Zone
• Face Painting
• Caricature Artists
• Australia House
• Various Roundhouses (please refer to signage at those locations for specifics)

Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day Cost: Ticket prices run $22 for adults (ages 13 – 61), $17 for children (ages 2 – 12) and infants (ages 0-23 months) are free.

Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Garden 5333 Zoo Dr. Online:  lazoo.org

–Jenifer Scott & Jennifer O’Brien

RELATED STORIES: More Amazing Animal Encounters in LA New & Improved! Our 100 Things to Do in LA List Is Here Why Oceanside Is the Laid-Back Vacation We All Need

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Many years after the reign of Caesar, a young ape goes on a journey that will lead him to question everything he's been taught about the past and make choices that will define a future for a... Read all Many years after the reign of Caesar, a young ape goes on a journey that will lead him to question everything he's been taught about the past and make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike. Many years after the reign of Caesar, a young ape goes on a journey that will lead him to question everything he's been taught about the past and make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike.

• Josh Friedman
• Amanda Silver
• Freya Allan
• Kevin Durand
• Dichen Lachman
• 3 User reviews

• Proximus Caesar

• Youngster #1
• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

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• Trivia This film is not a reboot and is set after the previous trilogy.

Proximus Caesar : What a wonderful day!

• Connections Featured in H-Cast: Insiders Expose Marvel! Blade Reboot, The Marvels & MORE! The H-Cast EP 78 (2023)

User reviews 3

• May 8, 2024

New and Upcoming Sci-fi & Fantasy

• When will Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes be released? Powered by Alexa
• May 10, 2024 (United States)
• United States
• Planet of the Apes Ride
• Helensburgh, New South Wales, Australia
• Disney Studios Australia
• Jason T. Reed Productions
• Oddball Entertainment
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

• Runtime 2 hours 25 minutes
• Dolby Digital
• 12-Track Digital Sound
• Dolby Atmos
• IMAX 6-Track

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La Fonda Mercado y Taqueria

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1000 Fulton St W

Grand Rapids, MI 49504

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Overall rating

Originally a speciality grocery store, they have a fairly large restaurant located within its doors. Affordable and authentic Mexican cuisines. We both got enchiladas which were delicious and filling.

This is a Mexican grocery store with a restaurant counter in the back. The signage out front changed recently and they seem to be advertising the food a lot more, so I made note of it and Nate and I stopped in recently before a zoo visit. I was surprised at how large the seating area is, and there are some really nice murals on the walls. The menu is large with a lot of specialties I haven't had before, like garnachas, huaraches, entomatadas, and enfrijoladas. We were just getting a snack so we each got two tacos - I got asada and chicken, and Nate got the al pastor and lengua. We also chose a Jarritos soda from the cooler. They have other beverages like agua frescas and horchata. Our food was ready quickly and we enjoyed it in the dining area. The grocery store was pretty warm, but I didn't mind. Plus it didn't take us long to devour our tacos! These were some of the best tacos I've had in awhile. Definitely on par with the former Taqueria San Jose. The meats were nicely cooked and seasoned, and the corn tortillas were really fresh and tender. The hot sauces and lime slices were a perfect addition. I'm looking forward to coming back and trying more food! If you like a good hole in the wall taco spot, definitely add La Fonda to your list.

See all photos from Katy C. for La Fonda Mercado y Taqueria

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