Los Angeles Zoo

The Los Angeles Zoo also known as the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is one of the best zoos of the city of Los Angeles. Ever since the establishment of the zoo in 1966 this zoo has attracted millions of visitors from every part of the world.

The City of Los Angeles acknowledges complete ownership and management of the zoo. Exhibits and animal preservation projects are financed and handled by Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA). GLAZA is a non-profit organization participating actively in the preservation of endangered species and wild life service.

Los Angeles Zoo has been accredited by AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums). John R Lewis is the Zoo Director of the Los Angeles Zoo.

Getting There

Los Angeles Zoo happens to be situated in the northeast corner of Griffith Park, at the point where the I-5(Golden State) and the 134(Ventura) freeways meet. This zoo is also exactly opposite to the Autry Museum of Western Heritage.
The Los Angeles Zoo can be reached via Westbound 134, Eastbound 134, Northbound 5 and Southbound 5. More information along with an elaborate Los Angeles Zoo map can be found on the official website.

Los Angeles Zoo History

It was the year 1912 that saw the opening of the first Los Angeles Zoo. This former site of the zoo was approximately 3 kilometers south of its current location. The little that is left of the old Los Angeles Zoo was also filmed in the movie ‘Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy’.
The actual Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens at Griffith Park was opened over the years on November 28, 1966.

Today the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical garden is loved and frequented by millions of visitors annually. The City of Los Angeles runs and operates the Los Angeles Zoo.

This zoo proudly houses over 1100 birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians that belong to almost 250 different kinds of species. The 29 endangered species out of this lot, reflects the zoo’s dedication towards the preservation of animals and nature as a whole. Moreover the zoo gardens flaunt a spectacular botanical collection comprising of more than 800 plant species with 7400 plants.

Los Angeles Zoo Events

The Los Angeles Zoo is known to host a variety of events. Let us take a look at some of the most popular events.

The 41st Annual Beastly Ball

Beastly Ball 2011 is set to be yet another grand annual celebration of the year of the Asian elephant. Look forward to an awesome evening complimented with excellent service and entertainments of all kinds.
The 41st annual Beastly Ball is scheduled to take place on June 18th 2011. Tickets are priced at $1000 per head. Table reservations beginning from $7500 are also available. For more information on this event please log onto the Los Angeles Zoo website.

Music in the LA Zoo

This event is a haven for music lovers of all ages belonging to different walks of life. Experience a unique musical getaway under the starry night skies of the zoo. The fun filled, musical ambience of the event helps visitors connect with animals in a way like never before. Many of the animals are allowed to stay past the routine time only for this special event.
More information on ticket prices and timings can be found in the official website.

Los Angeles Zoo Exhibits

World of Birds Show

Here is your chance to witness a world class bird show. The performance of these amazing carnivorous birds and rare bird species is sure to fascinate your whole family.

Visit Elephants of Asia!

The exhibit is by far the largest in the history of the zoo. Discover the sheer magnificence of the Asian elephants living in a sprawling area spread over six acres. Learn more about these amazing animals in this great exhibit loved by patrons.

Activities

California Condor Rescue Zone (CCRZ)

The California Condor Rescue Zone is an indoor play centre for children belonging to the age group of six years and above. Kids love every bit of this fun filled and educative activity. The California Condor Rescue Zone throws light upon the endangered California condors, one of the most beautiful and biggest birds of the Northern hemisphere.

Muriel’s Ranch

Muriel’s Ranch is a particular area of the Winnick Family Children’s Zoo that has been allotted to the goats and sheep. Visitors can actually touch and groom these adorable animals. This fun activity attracts jovial families to create memories like never before.

Animals and You Program

The activity provides visitors an up-close experience with all kinds of animals that includes the black widow spider, armadillo lizard, inland bearded dragon and so much more. Prepare yourself to have one of the wildest encounters of your life with these intriguing creatures. You can look forward to the Animals and You Program during the weekdays at the Winnick Family Children’s Zoo.

You can log onto the official website to avail the complete list of animals featured in this activity. Please remember that the different lists get circulated throughout the weekdays; thus the list maybe slightly different and there maybe a change of one or two animals.

Neil Papiano Play Park

The Neil Papiano Play Park has specially been built for children. This park is ideal not only for children of all ages but also for mentally and physically challenged children. Attractions in the park include a large picnic area, big play structures, toddler area, water misters and grassy landscaping.

Los Angeles Zoo Hours

The zoo remains opens from:

10.00am -5.00pm

On June 18th 2011 the zoo will open from:

10.00am – 4.00pm
The timings have been made to adjust preparations for the annual fund raising event.
Los Angeles Zoo is closed on Christmas (25th of December).

Los Angeles Zoo Admission

Los Angeles Zoo ticket prices are as follows:

Adults (13 yrs old and above): $14.00

Senior citizens (62 yrs old and above): $ 11.00

Kids (2-12 yrs old): $ 9.00

Kids (2Yrs and below): Free

Parking: Free

Please take note that the prices are subject to change.

Los Angeles Zoo discounts

The group must comprise of 15 or more people. Visitors are entitled to the following group discounts.
Adults: $11.00 per head (you save $ 3.00 off the regular admission)

Children (between 2-12 yrs old): $8.00 (you save $1.00 off regular admission)

Hotels near Los Angeles Zoo

Some of the hotels that can be found in the area surrounding the Los Angeles Zoo are as follows.

Days Inn Glenade

Homestead Los Angeles – Glenade

Glenn Capri Inn and Suites

Rodeway Inn Regalodge

Hotel Brandwood

Golden Key Hotel

Los Angeles Zoo stands out in its dedication towards the conservation of endangered species. The huge success of breeding programs has made a huge difference in the preservation of rare species like the California condors and Mountain Tapirs.

Contact Details

Los Angeles Zoo
5333 Zoo Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90027

Telephone: 323-644-4200