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Location
Parking
free parking
Best time
Visit on weekday mornings for the best experience with smaller crowds and easier parking, as weekend parking can be difficult
Visitor tip
The train ride is a must-do with kids and the conductor provides entertaining, knowledgeable commentary - it's especially valuable for younger children who need a break from walking
About Santa Barbara Zoo
Compact zoo with hundreds of animals. Small zoo with hundreds of animals in natural habitats, a miniature train ride & picnic spots.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Zoo
- Highlights
- Masai Giraffes, Humboldt Penguins, Red Pandas, Asian Small-Clawed Otters
- Hours
- 9:30 AM - 7:00 PM (March 13 – September 7 Twilight Hours)
- Parking
- Free parking
What visitors say
Great zoo. Mornings are best. Ample parking. Or visit during the winter holidays and enjoy Zoo Lights. Great display of handcrafted silk-covered lanterns in shapes of animals and flowers. More than 50,000 LED bulbs.
Great medium sized zoo. Grounds are very clean, beautiful and well maintained. Terrific diversity in species. All habitats and animals reflect a very caring staff. Lots of areas designed to give kids space and things to play on and…
Nice sized zoo for younger kiddos. Enclosures were smaller but it's understandable for the size of facility. It was easy to walk and the train was fun as well. The conductor was very fun and knowledgeable. There was a fun play…
From 6,767 Google reviews Read all reviews
Did You Know?
- The miniature train ride is the most frequently mentioned feature in visitor reviews with 340 mentions, making it the zoo's most distinctive attraction.
- The zoo features a seasonal Zoo Lights display during winter holidays with over 50,000 LED bulbs integrated into more than 50 handcrafted silk-covered lanterns in animal and flower shapes.
- Santa Barbara Zoo offers extended Twilight Hours from March 13 through September 7 with evening hours until 7 PM, featuring live music, entertainment, and guided walking tours.
More Family Fun Nearby
Other venues within driving distance:
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center
AquariumsSanta Barbara, CA
1 miles away
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
Children's MuseumsSanta Barbara, CA
1 miles away
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