Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Los Angeles - a city with many buildings
1 / 10

Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens

4.4
·21k reviews·Los Angeles, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Los Angeles - a city with many buildings

Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.4
(21k reviews)

"A beautiful zoo built into a hill, with amazing animals and stunning botanical gardens!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The LAIR Reptile House

The LAIR Reptile House

Reptile House

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

Majestic Elephants & Giraffes

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)

Lantern Light Festival (Seasonal)

Various locations

Experience the magic of thousands of illuminated lantern sculptures during this dazzling seasonal event.

Lush Botanical Gardens

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

Weekdays are your best bet for a less crowded experience at the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Arrive early, especially during spring when school field trips are common. Summers can be very hot, so pack light clothing and stay hydrated.

Smart Savings & Snacks

Consider purchasing tickets online in advance, as special deals are often available. Bringing your own lunch is highly recommended, as food options inside can be pricey and not always the best quality. You can keep it in your car and utilize the free in-and-out access.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Spring, afternoons
Why
Beautiful blooms, mild weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall, evenings (seasonal)
Why
Lantern Light Festival magic
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Are you a fan of appreciating lights? ✨👀 In Los Angeles Zoo there's now a thousands of lantern sculptures for them to amaze you 🤩💗 Don't miss out this amazing experience! You've got til January 7 to v...
tripsst.la
126 likes • 2.8K views

🎟️ Buy Tickets Online

Look for deals on Groupon/Goldstar to save money. Buying in advance also saves time at the entrance. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo is built on a hill with many inclines. Good walking shoes are a must! Reddit

🦁We went to the Los Angeles zoo and wow what an incredible zoo, it is in a beautiful place surrounded by lots of vegetation, trees, flowers, it is a very beautiful hill near the Hollywood sign, it is ...
traveling_dove
1.1K likes • 3.2K views
Had an amazing day with my little one at the Los Angeles Zoo! @lazoo 🦁🐒 We saw so many fascinating animals, and the Halloween candy hunt was a hit – we ended up with a whole bag of treats! 🍬🎃 Such a p...
kislaya_marina
41 likes • 3.8K views

🍎 Pack Your Own Lunch

Food inside can be expensive and not great. Utilize free in-and-out access to eat in your car. Reddit

☀️ Stay Hydrated & Cool

Summers are hot! Bring water bottles and wear light clothing. Reddit

Our favorite part was seeing the elephant and the giraffes 💛 There were so many more animals at the LA Zoo. For the complete list of animals please visit the zoo link below: https://lazoo.org/exp...
fomomommy
39 likes • 2K views

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. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo is built on a hill with many inclines. Good walking shoes are a must! Reddit

🍎 Pack Your Own Lunch

Food inside can be expensive and not great. Utilize free in-and-out access to eat in your car. Reddit

☀️ Stay Hydrated & Cool

Summers are hot! Bring water bottles and wear light clothing. Reddit

👶 Bring a Stroller

Little ones will appreciate a stroller for navigating the zoo's hilly terrain. Reddit

🐍 Don't Miss The LAIR

This reptile exhibit is a must-see, featuring unique species like snake-necked turtles. Reddit

📸 Capture the Magic

The zoo offers stunning photo opportunities, especially during seasonal events like the lantern festival. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(21k reviews)

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

Diverse animal species
Beautiful botanical gardens
LAIR reptile exhibit

What People Dislike

Hilly terrain
Food prices/quality

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. TikTok

Yes, there is paid parking available at the zoo. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as it can fill up quickly. Reddit

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. TikTok

The zoo is generally accessible, with paved paths throughout most of the grounds. However, be aware that some areas are hilly. Reddit

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

🎫 🧭 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. InstagramReddit

While paved paths exist, the zoo is built on a hillside, meaning there are many inclines. A stroller is highly recommended for young children. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTokInstagram

While enclosures can present challenges, patience and good timing can yield great shots. Look for moments when animals are active and visible. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always check the zoo's official guidelines. TikTok

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. TikTok

Yes, the Lantern Light Festival is a highly visual event, perfect for photography. The illuminated sculptures create a magical atmosphere. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Los Angeles Zoo is a fantastic destination for families. Prioritize bringing a stroller as the zoo is quite hilly, and little ones will appreciate the ride. Reddit Don't miss the LAIR exhibit for an exciting look at reptiles and amphibians, and the elephants and giraffes are always a hit. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit Keep an eye out for seasonal events like the Halloween candy hunt, which add extra fun for children. Instagram Arriving early on weekdays will help you avoid the biggest crowds and the midday heat.

💰 Budget Travelers

To visit the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens on a budget, buy your tickets online in advance and look for deals on sites like Groupon or Goldstar. Reddit The biggest money-saver is to pack your own lunch and snacks. The zoo allows you to leave and re-enter, so you can keep your food in your car. Reddit

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

The Los Angeles Zoo offers a variety of photographic opportunities. The elephants and giraffes provide classic wildlife shots, while the botanical gardens offer lush, scenic backdrops. Instagram+1 The LAIR exhibit presents unique close-up opportunities for reptile and amphibian photography. Reddit

For truly spectacular shots, plan your visit during the seasonal Lantern Light Festival for a chance to capture stunning illuminated sculptures. TikTok 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

The Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens is uniquely situated within Griffith Park, meaning it's built into the side of a hill. This creates a beautiful, naturalistic environment but also means there are significant inclines and stairs throughout the park. For visitors with young children or those with mobility concerns, this can be a challenge. Reddit

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. Reddit

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

While the primary draw of the Los Angeles Zoo is its incredible collection of animals, the zoo also hosts special events that transform the experience. One of the most popular is the Lantern Light Festival, which typically runs during the holiday season. This event features thousands of intricately designed lantern sculptures that illuminate the zoo after dark, creating a magical and visually stunning spectacle. TikTok

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. Instagram 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. TikTok

Smart Visitor Strategies: Tickets and Food

To make your visit to the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens as smooth and cost-effective as possible, strategic planning is key. Purchasing tickets online in advance is a common recommendation, not only to save time at the entrance but also to potentially snag discounts. Websites like Groupon or Goldstar often feature special deals for the zoo, making it a more budget-friendly outing. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2