Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Discover over 270 animal species and 800 plant species across lush botanical gardens at the historic Los Angeles Zoo.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover over 270 animal species and 800 plant species across lush botanical gardens at the historic Los Angeles Zoo.
"A beautiful zoo built into a hill, with amazing animals and stunning botanical gardens!"
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Look for deals on Groupon/Goldstar to save money. Buying in advance also saves time at the entrance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is built on a hill with many inclines. Good walking shoes are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The LAIR Reptile House
Reptile House
Explore a fascinating collection of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates, including unique snake-necked turtles.

Majestic Elephants & Giraffes
African Savanna
Marvel at the gentle giants, including the zoo's beloved elephants and graceful giraffes, a favorite for many visitors.

Lantern Light Festival (Seasonal)
Various locations
Experience the magic of thousands of illuminated lantern sculptures during this dazzling seasonal event.

Lush Botanical Gardens
Throughout the zoo
Wander through diverse plant collections, showcasing over 800 species amidst the animal exhibits.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Smart Savings & Snacks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Look for deals on Groupon/Goldstar to save money. Buying in advance also saves time at the entrance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is built on a hill with many inclines. Good walking shoes are a must!
🍎 Pack Your Own Lunch
Food inside can be expensive and not great. Utilize free in-and-out access to eat in your car.
☀️ Stay Hydrated & Cool
Summers are hot! Bring water bottles and wear light clothing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Look for deals on Groupon/Goldstar to save money. Buying in advance also saves time at the entrance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is built on a hill with many inclines. Good walking shoes are a must!
🍎 Pack Your Own Lunch
Food inside can be expensive and not great. Utilize free in-and-out access to eat in your car.
☀️ Stay Hydrated & Cool
Summers are hot! Bring water bottles and wear light clothing.
👶 Bring a Stroller
Little ones will appreciate a stroller for navigating the zoo's hilly terrain.
🐍 Don't Miss The LAIR
This reptile exhibit is a must-see, featuring unique species like snake-necked turtles.
📸 Capture the Magic
The zoo offers stunning photo opportunities, especially during seasonal events like the lantern festival.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise the Los Angeles Zoo for its diverse animal collection and beautiful botanical gardens, with the LAIR exhibit and large mammals being particular highlights. However, some find the zoo's hilly terrain challenging and suggest bringing your own food due to cost and quality concerns.
"The Zoo was good in general but I only give it 4 stars because a lot of the exhibits were closed, either without any reason or for renovation. Sadly the elephants are also at another Zoo for the time being, so you won't be able to see any. Other than that I had a good time and it's worth visiting considering the price is also pretty low. Try to arrive as early as possible as it is very big and you will need a lot of time to properly visit everything."
Sebastian Banica
"The animals look extremely healthy and very cared for. However, I couldn't help but feel bad. I noticed that some of them looked very sad. Although it broke my heart, I still captured some very cute moments. Some of the exhibits here were pretty empty as well. I didn't see any of the koala's or elephants. Overall, I'm very happy that I got to experience this."
Traveling With Welt
"I had one of the best experiences visiting the LA Zoo! The animals are clearly well taken care of, with clean enclosures, fresh food, and plenty of space to live. The zoo is beautifully maintained and great viewing areas that allow you to get a close look without disturbing the animals."
Gray Cat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The LA Zoo is located in Griffith Park. You can drive and park (paid parking available), or use ride-sharing services. Public transportation options include bus routes that stop near the park entrance.
Yes, there is paid parking available at the zoo. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as it can fill up quickly.
Several Metro bus lines serve the area around Griffith Park, with stops within walking distance of the zoo. Check the Metro website for the most current routes and schedules.
The zoo is generally accessible, with paved paths throughout most of the grounds. However, be aware that some areas are hilly.
Driving is the most common method. For a more scenic approach, consider biking or walking within Griffith Park, though the zoo itself is quite spread out.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets online through the official Los Angeles Zoo website. It's often recommended to buy in advance to secure your spot and potentially find deals.
Yes, look for special offers on sites like Groupon or Goldstar. Membership options can also provide cost savings if you plan to visit multiple times.
The zoo is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours during certain seasonal events. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.
Yes, the zoo offers free in-and-out privileges, which is convenient if you plan to bring your own food and eat outside the main exhibit areas.
The Halloween candy hunt is a popular event, especially for families with young children. It's a fun way to celebrate the holiday with treats and themed activities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors often rave about the elephants, giraffes, and the LAIR reptile exhibit. Don't miss the chance to see the diverse array of species.
While paved paths exist, the zoo is built on a hillside, meaning there are many inclines. A stroller is highly recommended for young children.
The LAIR (Living Amphibians, Insects, Reptiles) is an immersive exhibit showcasing a wide variety of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. It's a highlight for many visitors.
The zoo offers various educational programs and keeper talks throughout the day, providing insights into animal behavior and conservation efforts. Check the daily schedule upon arrival.
The botanical gardens feature over 800 plant species, including drought-tolerant California natives, succulents, and a variety of flowering plants, adding to the zoo's natural beauty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are several cafes and snack stands within the zoo offering typical park fare. However, many visitors suggest bringing your own food for better quality and value.
Absolutely! Bringing your own lunch and snacks is a popular strategy to save money and ensure you have food you enjoy. You can utilize the free in-and-out access.
While specific options vary, most zoo eateries offer some vegetarian choices. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask staff upon arrival for the most current offerings.
There are picnic areas available, or you can step outside the main zoo entrance to enjoy your meal in your car or a nearby park area.
Compared to bringing your own food, the dining options inside the zoo can be considered pricey. Many visitors recommend eating before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The elephant and giraffe enclosures offer great opportunities for wildlife shots. The botanical gardens provide beautiful scenic backdrops, and the seasonal lantern festival is incredibly photogenic.
While enclosures can present challenges, patience and good timing can yield great shots. Look for moments when animals are active and visible.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always check the zoo's official guidelines.
Mornings often provide softer light and more active animals. Late afternoons can also be good, with golden hour lighting, but be mindful of closing times.
Yes, the Lantern Light Festival is a highly visual event, perfect for photography. The illuminated sculptures create a magical atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic lunch to save money and ensure picky eaters have something they'll enjoy, utilizing the zoo's in-and-out policy. Keep an eye out for seasonal events like the Halloween candy hunt, which add extra fun for children. Arriving early on weekdays will help you avoid the biggest crowds and the midday heat.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for visiting on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds and potentially higher prices. While parking has a fee, it's generally more affordable than some other LA attractions. Consider public transportation if it's convenient for your route.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For truly spectacular shots, plan your visit during the seasonal Lantern Light Festival for a chance to capture stunning illuminated sculptures. Mornings often provide the best light and more active animals. Be patient, as enclosures can sometimes make getting clear shots challenging, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain: Hills and Strollers
Bringing a stroller is highly recommended for families with toddlers and young children. It will make navigating the hills much easier and prevent little legs from getting too tired. Even for older children, a stroller can be a lifesaver for a full day of exploring. If you're not bringing your own, inquire about stroller rentals at the entrance. For those without strollers, be prepared for a good workout and consider taking breaks at shaded benches.
While the zoo strives for accessibility, some of the more rugged paths might be difficult. However, the main thoroughfares are generally paved and manageable. Planning your route and being aware of the hilly terrain beforehand can help you make the most of your visit without overexertion.
Seasonal Spectacles: Beyond the Animals
Beyond the lanterns, the zoo often has themed events throughout the year. For instance, the Halloween candy hunt is a hit with families, offering a festive way to enjoy the holiday with trick-or-treating and animal-themed activities. These seasonal events provide unique opportunities to see the zoo in a different light and offer entertainment beyond the standard animal viewing. It's worth checking the zoo's official calendar for any special happenings during your planned visit, as they can add an extra layer of excitement to your trip.
Smart Visitor Strategies: Tickets and Food
When it comes to dining, a recurring tip from visitors is to bring your own food. While the zoo has several food vendors, reviews suggest that the quality can be inconsistent and the prices are on the higher side. The zoo offers free in-and-out privileges, allowing you to keep your packed lunch in your car and enjoy it outside the main exhibit areas. This strategy can significantly reduce your overall spending and ensure you have access to food you prefer.
Combining these tips – booking tickets ahead and packing your own provisions – can lead to a more enjoyable and economical visit, allowing you to focus more on the amazing animals and beautiful gardens.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit