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Best of California

Cool zoos

You want to spend your day at the zoo and you are only interested in the spots that actually have a cool factor.

Based on 444 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Orange County Zoo image 1
Orange County Zoo image 2
Orange County Zoo image 3
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Zoo sits within a large park shaded by tree canopy, creating a peaceful family atmosphere. Enclosures feature water elements and offer clear views of animals like jaguars and mountain lions. A petting zoo with goats and pony rides adds interactive experiences for children.

Entry costs just $2, making it very affordable. The zoo is small and family friendly, easy to walk, and great for kids.

Short outings feature cool exhibits like mountain lions and jaguars. Being close to native wild animals feels really neat and the big cat upgrades add to the cool vibe.

People are saying

"I found the zoo to be a fun place with a great petting zoo."

"I thought the zoo was affordable, with entry costing only $2."

"It's really cool to be so up close to native wild animals."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is only $2 per person, with children under 2 entering for free.

2

Parking costs $5 per car, but finding a spot can be challenging.

3

The zoo hosts community events like Star Wars day that are enjoyable for the whole family.

02
Old Los Angeles Zoo image 1

Abandoned animal cages and overgrown paths create a hauntingly beautiful and mysterious vibe. Graffiti and street art add an urban grit that contrasts with the peaceful, quiet atmosphere. The site feels like a hidden spot with great photo opportunities and space for relaxed walks or picnics.

Abandoned enclosures and old animal cages create a hauntingly beautiful and atmospheric setting. Trails wind through the area offering well-groomed paths for hiking and biking with views of the city.

Urban exploration reveals creepy old zoo enclosures with graffiti adding an urban feel. Hiking trails offer awesome views and cool spots to chill and explore.

People are saying

"It's cool exploring the old abandoned zoo enclosures."

"Parking was easy and available, with plenty of free spots nearby."

"I found the abandoned zoo hauntingly beautiful and atmospheric."

Good to know

1

Parking is usually available nearby, and it's free.

2

Nearby restrooms are accessible at the Old L.A. Zoo.

3

The site is perfect for photographers or families seeking something offbeat outdoors.

03
Irvine Park Railroad image 1
Amusement park

Large park offers train rides, pony rides, and bike rentals amid festive decorations. Atmosphere feels natural and peaceful with a family-friendly vibe. Seasonal events and well-lit areas create a relaxing experience for all ages.

Admission costs just $2, free for kids under 2, making it very affordable. The zoo features wild animals like jaguars and mountain lions, along with birds, reptiles, and farm animals, all in a clean, well-maintained environment.

Pony rides next to the train offer a fun and unique experience. The billboard tracks provide an engaging activity for kids, making the whole place feel lively and entertaining.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with train rides and pony rides."

"The zoo here is really fun for kids and families."

"This place is really cool for a fun day out."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $5 per car to enter Irvine Park Railroad.

2

Arriving after 10:00 AM could result in waiting up to an hour to get in.

3

Online tickets for Halloween events sell out quickly, so buy in advance.

04
The Reptile Zoo image 1

Small space with exhibits resembling cages offers a calm, cool atmosphere. Visitors can interact directly by feeding turtles and tortoises or holding snakes and lizards. Gift shop and decorative items like a dinosaur statue add to the unique setup.

The zoo features an incredible variety of reptiles including snakes, lizards, gators, and monitors. It cares for exotic reptiles and even takes in baby geckos, offering a memorable experience for families and reptile enthusiasts.

A double-head snake exhibit stands out as a unique feature. Feeding fishes and water turtles worms adds a hands-on experience. The collection includes venomous species like king cobras and vipers.

People are saying

"The staff at the Zoo were so friendly and knowledgeable."

"It's a cool place with tons of interesting reptiles."

"Feeding the turtles and tortoises was a super fun activity."

Good to know

1

Admission costs $15 per adult to enter.

2

The zoo offers free parking within walking distance of places to eat and shop.

3

You can buy food at the entrance for $5, which includes lettuce and carrots.

05
Santa Ana Zoo image 1

Landscaped grounds with shaded rest areas and natural habitat exhibits create a pleasant, quiet atmosphere. Play areas include a working train, carousel, and Ferris wheel, offering hands-on fun for children. Layout features multiple trails that help reduce crowding and enhance the experience.

Small size suits young children well with two play areas and a working train, carousel, and Ferris wheel. Animal habitats and landscapes stay well-maintained and the zoo remains very clean and informative.

Active construction brings new exhibits soon. Shady vegetation keeps the park cool and beautiful. Birds fly overhead in the bird enclosure, and the butterfly enclosure adds to the cool vibe.

People are saying

"It's a cute little zoo, perfect for younger kids."

"I found the admission prices to be affordable compared to other zoos."

"It's a pretty cool and well-kept zoo."

Good to know

1

Admission is $12 for adults and $10 for children.

2

Parking is free at the zoo.

3

The zoo offers rides only on weekends.

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