Long Beach California Zoos & Animal Parks
Listed below are top destinations for zoos and animal parks for Long Beach, California.
1. San Francisco Zoo & Gardens
San Francisco California Visit a large coastal zoo at the edge of the Pacific with a broad mix of global species. Ocean views, historic zoo architecture, and kid-focused attractions like the Little Puffer steam train round out the experience.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Safari West
Santa Rosa California Join guided safari drives past giraffes, antelope, and other African wildlife at a private preserve in Sonoma’s hills. Optional overnight stays in tent cabins turn a day visit into a full safari-style getaway.
5. Birch Aquarium at Scripps
La Jolla California Look out over the Pacific while exploring marine science exhibits, tide pool plazas, and local ocean life. Hands-on displays and research links to Scripps Institution of Oceanography emphasize ocean discovery and conservation.
6. 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.
7. Oakland Zoo
Oakland California Ride a gondola to hilltop habitats and explore modern exhibits that spotlight wildlife from Africa, California, and beyond. Conservation projects, ropes courses, and sweeping Bay views give this zoo a distinctive regional feel.
8. Santa Barbara Zoo
Santa Barbara California Enjoy coastal views while visiting giraffes, penguins, and other animals in a compact, walkable zoo above the beach. Lush landscaping, hilltop viewpoints, and a laid-back pace fit well with a Santa Barbara getaway.
9. San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Escondido California Ride safaris past wide-open savanna habitats where giraffes, rhinos, and antelope roam across hundreds of acres of rolling hills. Tram tours, walking trails, and special animal encounters create a full-scale safari experience just inland from the coast.
10. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Palm Desert California Walk desert trails past giraffes, bighorn sheep, and cactus gardens in a zoo focused on arid-land wildlife and plants. Seasonal nighttime events, hiking loops, and scenic mountain backdrops make it a standout Coachella Valley attraction.
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