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Exploring the world of adventure at Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Welcome to a magically adventurous world. Here at the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens the wonders of nature come alive! Nestled in the heart of Griffith Park lies this sprawling oasis, which promises unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. Let’s start by taking a trip through the extensive plant life, some curious creature lurks round every corner, and astonishing exhibits. 

The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is like no ordinary zoo. It is a refuge where creatures live in surroundings that mimic the wilderness they come from, while plants from all over the world thrive in decorative gardens. Whatever your passion is- be it nature or animals-picnicking next to the monkeys or just hanging out with all members of your family. This Zoo should be able to answer these yearnings in you; a bestial, blithe blast from civilization’s throbbing heart! 

Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens photo scaled

Wander around the Los Angeles Zoo

Animals

The Los Angeles Zoo is home to many animals and among them are majestic elephants and a wide range of primates. These animals fascinate people of all ages, juvenile and adult. In the African savanna, watch giraffes eat the leaves of trees with dignified grace; in the Rainforest of the Americas however expect the lesser-known beauty. At the zoo you might meet any number of amazing critters because over its 4,000 beautiful trees and grassy acres there are more than 1,400 animals representing 270 different species. The zoo is home to amphibians, fishes, birds, invertebrates, mammals and reptiles. 

Exhibits

The zoo offers a large variety of displays, each one providing a unique perspective on wildlife conservation. Get inside the Winnick Family Children’s Zoo, where children can meet farm animals and exotic birds up close and personal. These exhibits tell about the work to save these wonderful animals and their natural homes. 

  • Campo Gorilla Reserve: Providing a safe environment for the Gorillas, this beautiful multilevel exhibits is adorned by lush green grass and waterfall. 
  • Chimpanzees of Mahale Mountains: Taking care of the endangered species here, this area is known as world’s one of the best chimpanzee habitats. 
  • Elephants of Asia: A habitat to large number of pachydermic elephants, this is a 6.5 acre area that consists of sandy hills, waterfalls, bathing pools, etc. For the elephants to feel home.  
  • Rainforest of the Americas: This wonderous area is designed in such a way that the visitors experience the rainforest of Amazon. 
  • Red Ape Rain Forest: Build 25 feet high with elevated platforms and much more, this forest makes it a comfortable place for the orangutans. 
  • The LAIR: Here you can find a variety of amphibians, invertebrates and reptiles that are one of their kind. 
  • Conservation Focus: It has continuously emphasized conservation efforts, education, and animal welfare, contributing to various global conservation programs.

Plants

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Also, the Los Angeles Zoo is home to a botanical garden that has collections of rare or endangered plants. Meander through lush landscapes decorated with plants from around the world, tall palms and tiny orchids alike. The gardens are a balm for all one’s senses–a riot of color, flower scents so strong they make your head spin in wonder at their beauty. 

Reach your Destination and Wander

The zoo is located at in the Griffith Park in Los Angeles. The address to the zoo is: 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027. The best ways to reach the zoo is either driving or by Metro. Apart from these, the visitors can also choose to reach the location by rideshare services or simply walk if they are staying nearby the destination. 

Navigating the sprawling grounds of the zoo is easy, thanks to its well-planned layout and convenient amenities. Hop aboard the zoo’s miniature railroad for a scenic tour of the park, or rent a stroller or wheelchair for added comfort and convenience. With ample signage and helpful staff on hand to assist you, getting around the zoo is a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time with the animals and plants. 

Savor the Flavor

After wandering the zoo, the visitors can refuel themselves from many dining opportunities. Whether you want a quick bite to eat or leisurely sit-down meal, there is good taste waiting for you all round. At a casual cafe get a hot dog or burger and then sit down for dinner that boasts panoramic views of the zoo at an on-site restaurant. The options available are: 

  • REGGIE’S BISTRO 
  • ZOO GRILL 
  • SWEET TREATS 
  • BEAN SPROUTS CAFÉ 
  • CHURRO FACTORY 
  • FORK IN THE ROAD 
  • MAHALE CAFÉ 
Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Garden photo scaled

Accommodation

The Los Angeles Zoo offers a variety of overnight accommodations options for those who want to the party. It’s all there: from camping in Griffith Park under stars or in a nearby hotel, whatever your taste (or pocketbook) demands. Wake up to the sounds of birds chirping and be among the only people in the zoo ‘s exhibits with this exclusive early-morning access–it will be an unforgettable experience. 

Tickets and Operating Hours

Looking to start your own adventure at the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens and skip the queue? Save yourself from that stressful day by purchasing your tickets in advance from the website with choices ranging from one-day admission tickets to annual memberships, zoo tickets that are valid all year round or specially contracted performance events, there is something to meet every accommodation. Ticket prices start from $17 for children to $22 for adults in case general admission. The combo of zoo and aquarium ticket prices to almost $48. So get your family and friends together, load up your sunscreen and camera ready yourselves for an unforgettable day of discovery and adventure in the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens. 

Please note that the Zoo operates from 10am to 5pm every day. It remains closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Last entry everyday is at 3:45pm.  

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