Zoos
Central Coast Zoo (formerly Charles Paddock Zoo)
📍 9100 Morro Rd, Atascadero, CA 93422🕐 Hours
| Monday | 10 AM–4 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Saturday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | 10 AM–4 PM |
About Central Coast Zoo (formerly Charles Paddock Zoo)
Animals from around the world on 5 acres. Zoo on 5 wooded acres with many animals that are part of globally managed preservation programs. Central Coast Zoo features about 100 species of animals on just 5 wooded acres, making it a compact but diverse collection of globally managed preservation programs. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,612 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Zoo
- Location
- Atascadero, California
- Best For
- All ages
- Accreditation
- Only AZA-accredited zoo on Central Coast
- Featured Animal
- Burrowing Owl pair (produced 8 chicks in 2018)
💡 Did You Know?
- Central Coast Zoo features about 100 species of animals on just 5 wooded acres, making it a compact but diverse collection of globally managed preservation programs
- The zoo offers a unique visitor engagement program where guests can purchase tokens in the gift shop to vote for conservation projects they wish to support
- Central Coast Zoo participates in reciprocal zoo agreements, allowing visitors with tickets from partner zoos (such as LA Zoo) to receive 50% discounts on admission
- The zoo features a hands-on veterinary hospital activity area where children can wear lab coats and learn animal care practices
- Live animal cams are available online, allowing the public to observe animals in action remotely from the zoo
💬 What Visitors Say
- Take advantage of reciprocal zoo memberships - visitors with LA Zoo or other participating zoo tickets can get 50% off admission ($7.50 adults, $5 children instead of $15/$10)
- Plan to spend 2+ hours exploring at a relaxed pace - benches are scattered throughout the zoo, allowing you to sit and observe animals without rushing through exhibits
- Don't miss the bamboo area with red pandas and its scenic overlook - it's highlighted as a particularly lovely spot with excellent viewing opportunities
- Bring kids in lab coats to the veterinary hospital play area where they can learn hands-on animal care, and purchase conservation tokens at the gift shop to vote for animal welfare projects
- Rent a stroller or wagon ($6) if visiting with young children under 2 (free admission) - handicap parking and accessible facilities are available near the entrance
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