Burlingame California Zoos & Animal Parks


Listed below are top destinations for zoos and animal parks for Burlingame, California.


1. Big Bear Alpine Zoo

Big Bear Lake California See rescued mountain animals like bears, eagles, and foxes at a high-altitude rehabilitation-focused zoo. Compact pathways, snowy winters, and a focus on native species give it a distinctly alpine character.


2. Lindsay Wildlife Experience

Walnut Creek California Get close to rehabilitated hawks, owls, and other native species at a pioneering wildlife hospital and education center. Indoor exhibits, live demonstration programs, and viewing areas into treatment spaces highlight behind-the-scenes care.


3. Sacramento Zoo

Sacramento California Explore a compact city zoo with big cats, primates, and birds in mature tree-filled grounds. New projects and a planned move to a larger site aim to expand habitats and improve visitor amenities over time.


4. Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park

Santa Ana California Visit a neighborhood zoo known for its primate collection, farm animals, and child-friendly attractions. Train rides, playgrounds, and seasonal events give families multiple ways to structure a short visit.


5. Aquarium of the Pacific

Long Beach California Discover sharks, rays, penguins, and colorful reef life in a major waterfront aquarium focused on Pacific Ocean ecosystems. Outdoor habitats, touch pools, and seasonal events add extra reasons to linger along the harbor.



6. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

San Pedro California Learn about Southern California’s coastal ecosystems through touch tanks, local marine exhibits, and beachside programs. Outdoor tidepooling, educational labs, and frequent public events keep the focus on nearby ocean life.


7. Sequoia Park Zoo

Eureka California Enjoy intimate exhibits for red pandas, river otters, and other species in one of California’s oldest small zoos beside a redwood park. Elevated walkways, a nearby forest playground, and a relaxed pace suit slower, half-day visits.


8. California Academy of Sciences

San Francisco California Combine a major indoor aquarium, rainforest dome, and natural history museum under one green-roofed city landmark. Living exhibits, planetarium shows, and hands-on science spaces make it an all-day Golden Gate Park stop.


9. Orange County Zoo

Orange California Meet native California animals like black bears, bobcats, and owls in a compact zoo inside Irvine Regional Park. Picnic areas, pony rides, and surrounding park trails make it easy to pair animal viewing with outdoor play.


10. Aquarium of the Bay

San Francisco California Walk through underwater tunnels to watch sharks, rays, and schooling fish from San Francisco Bay glide overhead. Interactive touch pools and pierfront views connect the exhibits directly to the surrounding waterfront.



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