Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens

I don’t have kids but I just wanted to see the animals.
I give three stars because Edward G really wanted to see the rhinoceros and hippopotamus but you have to purchase special tickets to meet and greet them. This should be notated at the ticket sales window.

Not really a pro zoo person but went bc of my little nephew who is visiting («I wanna see lions!») the animals seem more active than I expected but I would definitely skip the elephant show, or any show using animals. The bamboo tree area is really awesome and my fav was the giraffes. They seemed very happy and very sociable with the human guests. The food is not the best and is over priced so I suggest you eat before or after the visit.

They do not maintain this place. Poor animals. If you’re going to have a zoo at least have some proper maintenance done. Everything is super old and outdated. Poor animals don’t even have much Space to roam around. Food is terrible and overpriced. San Diego zoo is way better. The animals here look depressed

It’s been years since I’ve been to the L.A. Zoo. What I remember most were the animal shaped French fries and the machine wax figures.
So my sister had tickets and we decided to go and bring my nieces along. You walk for days and there are a lot of hills. Not all the animals can be seen because their napping or hiding. We paid extra for the shuttle ride, and was actually a waste of money because of how the stops are set up. The only good thing about the shuttle is you can ride it, while you charge your battery then get off at different spots.
Considering all the walking you do, the zoo is not that big. It was cool to go back, since it’s been years, but I don’t think I’ll return anytime soon. After a while, I was board out of my mind. It also breaks my heart to see all these animals in closed. The zoo setup can be a bit confusing.
Everything is on the pricy side, but you are able to bring your own food and eat in the picnic area which is cool on their part if your on a budget. The picnic area is where the playground is at. They also have a few rides and some other stuff to do. The churro sundaes were yummy. If you buy the plastic animal drinking sippy cup, throw out the liquid, it taste disgusting.

I’ve always wanted to visit the Los Angeles Zoo ever since I’ve watched reruns of «Threes Company».
I guess in the grand scheme of Zoos this place probably falls in the upper middle range. It’s definitely a few notches below the San Diego Zoo, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit. There’s a beautiful Botanical side to this zoo and a good walking day is in store. Overall I enjoyed my visit, there are a few quirks but I feel that it’s worth visiting once during your lifetime.
In my opinion there were three great «signature» attractions at the Los Angeles Zoo.
The Lair — If there’s one thing that the LA Zoo has over the San Diego Zoo it’s their «Lair» exhibits. The Lair is a humid tropical exhibit with mostly Plexiglas walls which give you a nose-​to-​nose experience with amphibians and tropical snakes. When not crowded, you really feel like you’re in the jungle somewhere, surrounded by snakes.
The Desert Lair (seems like a newer addition) — One of the best exhibits for desert snakes I’ve ever seen. Its cool lighting and atmosphere along with the the invisible Plexiglass walls made this one of my favorite reptile exhibits of all time. Too bad it’s on the small side.
Chimpanzees of the Mahale Mountains. — The exhibit resembles an abandoned Research building. I spent about 20 minutes here just watching the the interrelations of this troop. You get a first experience on grooming and various other social norms. Even some scary screaming when a younger chimp violates a troop rule. Of course the pooing and peeing always garner laughter and oohing and awing.

Parking was free, but the condition of the tarmac was pretty terrible. What really sucked was the ticket buying process. We arrived before 1PM and there was a pretty long line. What sucked was there were only three windows opened. Then two… I’m not sure why this zoo was so understaffed but I’ve read that other people had the same experience.
Notes
— Bullshit ticket buying process.
— Food options have inconsistent hours of operations and are not close together. Even though this was a busy day, one of the main food places was closed.
— When leaving the Zoo and you’re going North 5 it’s a crazy long out-​of-​the-​way drive to get back on the freeway.
— Some of the areas of this zoo were not well maintained. One exhibit had broken Plexiglas (looked like it was it hit with a high velocity projectile). Many «fit and finish» issues.
.

I was so pleasantly surprised by the zoo today. Most of the animals were in opened enclosures that allowed you to feel like the animals were within arm’s length. For instance the giraffes were 4 feet away from us and it was amazing. They have a great variety of animals and attractions. The crowds were not that bad either but then again we went during off season. The only thing that was a downer was the price of admission. It’s 20 dollars for adults and 15 dollars for children 2 and up. That’s pretty steep in my opinion considering the fact that when I was a kid it was less than 10 dollars. We didn’t get a chance to see everything today and we are hoping to return soon.
4 stars

Pretty good visit to just take a look around and see how it used to be. The exhibits were small but they resemble how they look nowadays. They are a bit small and yes they have graffiti almost everywhere. There are many picnic tables everywhere to chill and Observe the area. The old zoo is small but it’s cool to check out. It is a bit confusing to get too, it’s on Griffin Park Drive and the parking is diagonal and you walk up a walkway and then you see the park, please see the pictures.

My friends had a guest pass for me to use so we all went one day before their membership was about to expire. The zoo is open daily from 10AM-​5PM and parking is always free, outside of their Preferred Parking Program. This program operates on busy days and offers nearby parking for a small cash-​only fee. I’m not sure if this is always the case, but Honda was sponsoring the program the day we went so we were able to park for free nearby since my friend was driving his Honda. Admission is $ 20/​adults but they do offer senior and child discounts.
The zoo is quite large and we were not able to go through all of them since my friend’s young children became tired after a couple of hours. I had not been to a zoo in decades, though, so it was still cool to me to see the various animals. I will admit that it makes me sad to see them trapped in their enclosures, limited to a small amount of space for the rest of their lives, but I tell myself it is for the good of the species (to prevent extinction and increase awareness). We were able to see meerkats, flamingos, elephants, tigers and lions, kangaroos and koalas, otters, various birds and monkeys… we saw a lot of animals! There was also a bird show that we got to see, and it was cool to see how well trained they are.
They allow outside food here, so make sure to pack lots of snacks and liquids since the food/​drinks here are expensive. There is a lot of walking so having a lot of water is always good when you come on a hot day. While I wish I had been able to see more of the zoo during my visit, I am happy that I came and do not really feel the need to come back. If you have young children, however, I think an annual pass would be good since the kids really liked the zoo and they can also only handle a couple of hours here at a time.

Love coming to the Zoo for a family outing! Today was unusually cold for LA (low 60, high 50s for you out of towners’s) but still a great way to be outside. As always, we headed to the Chimpanzees and the giraffes and got to see them eat lunch. We took the shuttle to the top and walked down towards the front (since the LA Zoo is quite hilly).
As the family walked away from the gorilla exhibit I stayed sitting and people watching (almost better than the animals) suddenly all the gorillas came out to the front. I laugh because the family had left because the gorillas were all I hiding when they were there. You just have to be at the right place at the right time.
I have been a member for years yet we rarely come out. This place is a gem here in LA.

Very sad experience
Being an animal lover I am not a big fan of zoos by definition
But LA zoo positioning itself as a «sanctuary» supporting the preservation and well being of the animals I decided to go
Very bad idea
I was ashamed and disgusted by the size of the living spaces for most of the animals
On top of that, patrons feeding the animals and screaming next to the «cages» –despite signs asking not to do so-​, drunk clients behaving like they were the ones belonging in the cages and no zoo keepers to be seen.
A really terrible experience– definitely not recommend

My refuge as a child and young person growing up in LA, the Los Angeles Zoo has always been a place of meditation for me. I’ve seen its many ups and downs over the years, and recent rebirth as a much improved facility. I am considered among the longest standing African-​American members of GLAZA (Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association), having joined in my very early teens when you didn’t see many other blacks at member events.
I’ve been a member of the San Diego Zoo as well, but this is my home zoo and my support for its continued success in conservation and exhibit improvements remains after some 45 years. You want a better zoo for Los Angeles? Visit and support it financially. It’s not just about watching the animals play but helping to conserve some of the most endangered jewels of the earth. This zoo is far from perfect, but is getting better year after year.

My family bought the membership deal and they go frequently so it pays off.
If you have kids it’s a good 2 – 3 hour walk around not including lunch.
Food is very expensive (burgers, chicken tenders, snow cones, etc other standard fare), but many families bring their own picnic!
There are tables and seating in the playground as well… you’ll see many families eating there.
Parking is reasonable, two large lots within eye distance of the entrance.
Lots of animals and exhibits… last time I went I finally saw the brown bear! It’s always sleeping whenever I come haha.
Overall, solid zoo with lots of exhibits and animal. Most popular is probably the chimpanzee exhibit… they are one big family.

If you are coming to LA Zoo during weekend, then come with certain expectations: a fairly long non-​member ticket line (~10 to 15 minutes), crowded parking lot (free parking, but you can pay $ 6 for «preferred parking» — closer to entrance), and possibility of fighting through the crowd just to see certain popular animals (e.g. hippopotamus).
Ticket: $ 20 for «adult» (age 13 – 61), $ 17 for senior (age 62+), $ 15 for children (age 2 – 12), and $ 0 for baby (age 0 – 1). Ticket sale will end one hour before zoo closes (zoo closes at 5 PM). You can also purchase tickets online to avoid the waiting line.
It took me about 2.5 hours to walk the entire zoo. During that time span, I got to see 90 ~ 95% of animals without reading most of descriptions and just took quick snapshots of animals. Unfortunately, most of scariest animals such as snow leopard, tigers, and lions were literally sleeping or taking a nap. If you don’t want to walk, then shuttles are also available ($ 4 per adult ticket, $ 2 for children, $ 1.5 for senior).
***
Cool: American alligator, Muriel’s Ranch (you to get touch and play with goats & sheep), flamingo, toucan, hippopotamus, giraffe, koala, kangaroo, rams, the LAIR (Living Amphibians, Invertebrates, and Reptiles) [rattlesnakes, scorpions, lizards, vipers, etc]
OK: Duikers, various exotic birds in aviary (aviary opens from 10 AM to 4:30 PM), elephant (too far away to see), giant river otters, various monkeys, anteater, snow leopard (can’t spot it), American Black Bear (sleeping), tiger (napping), lion (napping), jaguar (can’t spot it)
Did not get to see: Rhinos (missing), zebras (under construction), World of Birds Show (only available on Sunday, Thursday, and Saturday at 11:30 AM & Hawk Training Demonstration on Saturday and Sunday at 2 PM), Elephant Training Demonstration (daily at 11 AM, except Thursday)
***
Tips: Come early to see various shows (preferably before 10:30 AM) and buy tickets online.
By the way, no pandas here!

So it’s been over 10 years since I last visited «The LA Zoo» (now the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens”. I have to say, it has improved so much since my last visit.
I don’t know if it is due to the great weather, better nutrition, the additional space many of the animals seem to have, or just overall better care for them, but the overwhelming majority of animals we visited were active on our visit. The monkeys were swinging, the hippos were swimming, the meerkats were popping up from their holes and the snakes were slithering. My daughter (who is almost three) was delighted to see so many animals jumping, playing or eating as we watched them.
When we got hungry, we went to one of the various eateries within the zoo. I have to say, the food was pretty darn good and not too overpriced (three chicken strips and French fries and no drink will set you back $ 8.00).
We missed the live exhibits/​shows on our visit because many of them seem to start at the same time. I guess I understand why they do this: to avoid any one exhibit from being overcrowded but, it was a shame we had to leave the zoo without my kiddo being able to participate because all of the afternoon shows were way beyond her nap time (and we had a long drive back home).
Additionally, it took us almost an hour to get into the zoo. They only had one, then, after about a half hour, two ticket cashiers to process everyone waiting to get in. Guess what… had we not waited almost an hour to gain access, we would have made the first elephant exhibit show at 11:00 a.m. Bummer.
Ultimately, I’m still a fan (albeit a new one) of the LA Zoo.

The Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens is a massive complex in Griffith Park. Parking is usually free with somewhat easy access from the freeway. This is the main zoo for the region and is a top destination for school groups and families.
I was here on a weekday in the late afternoon and had the place to myself. Due to its location, the sun disappears much earlier than normal; I recommend coming here early for better lighting. The sprawling layout requires a lot of walking and climbing grades heading from exhibit to exhibit.
Overall, the zoo does a nice job of creating unique and interesting exhibits, but it is not a true destination zoo like Henry Doorly or San Diego. Nevertheless, it is a good place to take the kids, and has a zoo lights program during the darker holiday season.

After so many years of living in California I finally got to the LA Zoo and I thought that it was a little expensive but I’m sure running a zoo does cost quite a bit so I can understand the price. You can tour the whole zoo within 3 hours comfortably and make sure you wear your walking shoes because you have to walk and go up hills.
My favorite part was seeing the koalas. So cute watching them jump around from tree to tree and eating eucalyptus leaves. I also enjoyed the giraffes, Tigers, elephants, and the Rams that were jumping from ledge to ledge on these mountain like structures. It was amazing how they were so agile and had great balance.
The zoo itself was well kept and clean. It wasn’t too crowded for a weekend which was nice and we were able to see everything. I recommend going to this zoo over the Santa Barbara Zoo.

This park could’ve been nicer if there were actual animals present on their habitats. Unfortunately, most of them are either under construction or the animals have been moved or «coming soon» — according to the signs.
The goat and sheep petting area was nice for the kids though. They had fun.
As to the food chains, the service was fast. Food was okay. The restrooms were on average cleanliness.

I love the L.A. Zoo and Botanical Gardens! I’ve been a member for almost a decade and it’s really the best deal in L.A. I started with taking my kids, to just my husband and I and now I’m taking my grandkids.
My favorite time is fall and winter when the crowds die down, the weather gets cooler and the animals seem to come more alive.
There has been a lot of change over the years. New exhibits are being completed and more animal friendly environments are everywhere.
With a membership you get a year of admission. Free And discounted members events. A monthly magazine on featured animals and zoo news. 10% off restaurants and gift shops. It’s really something to consider if you plan on going more than once.
I like to go just for a walk… Or to take my granddaughter to the petting zoo or elaborate carousel or even enjoying the park full of other kids.
There’s so much to do. To conquer the whole park in a day is a feat but not impossible. Wear comfortable walking shoes and layers. Bring sunblock and water. Should you forget anything, the gift shops have you covered. And members receive 10% off.
Great restaurants with healthy food options for adults and kids at reasonable prices. Weekend’s there are more concession stands and carts open. They have caricatures drawings, seasonal activities, kettle corn and sweet almonds as well.
Some of the new exhibits are beautiful but I’m a little disappointed that they don’t accommodate the large crowds that overflow them during the summer months. The LAIR (reptile house) offers great views and habitats, but when it is busy, you’re packed in like a sardine in a hot and humid room. And the gorilla exhibit pools guests in small areas, and although there are multiple viewing spots, people only congregate in the spot they can actually see animals. They have one spot where there is thick glass, and if you’re lucky you can literally come face to face with these magnificent creatures. But just like kids, finger smudges on both sides of the glass make for blurred visuals.
They have labeled many of the plants and trees throughout the park and there is always something in bloom year round. I love that they have incorporated a botanical garden within their grounds. Every time I visit I learn a new plant, animal or continent. It’s educational and fun.
Parking is FREE! During summer months they offer preferred parking for a fee, but honestly it’s not that far of a walk and I’m thankful there is still a few places left in L.A. that offer free parking!
Join their Facebook page for all the latest births and news. I’m a big fan.

To understand my 4-​star rating of the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens, you have to understand my parental perspective.
Also, I am not deterred from environments in which the walking paths are not pristinely cleaned or the animals are jumping with *glee* at the very sight of my face.
While I’ve never been to the San Diego Zoo (by which a comparison is heavily and perhaps unfairly made throughout previous reviews by other Unilocalers), I’ve been to many big city zoos. Of course, they all have their pros and cons. This zoo experience was different for me as it was the first time ever I’ve had my own children in tow.
Our 1 & 2-​year-​olds, my brothers, and I arrived on a Wednesday (8÷5÷15) at 11:00 a.m. We should have arrived as soon as it opened which was (I believe) at 10:00 a.m. It was a rather hot day for L.A. Some of the animals were difficult to view if they sought a cooler area in their section.
PROS
— Free parking.
— Affordable tickets: Adult general admission = $ 20. Child admission ages 2 – 12 = $ 15. Under 2 = free. Honestly, I think a membership would be worth it in about a year when my 1-​year-​old doesn’t need her 2 – 3 hour afternoon nap.
— Restrooms are plentiful. Clean too. Equipped with baby changing stations!
— We got to see an abundance of animals including our group’s favorites: a tiger, hippos, lions, elephants, gorillas, eagles, giraffes… And some animals we didn’t expect to see. For example, the most playful and unexpectedly interactive character of the day: the okapi.
— Most areas are wheelchair/​stroller/​wagon accessible and in good condition.
— I love cacti. There’s an abundance here if you’re observant like that.
CONS
— The signage could be better.
— The gorillas were difficult to see through the glass that had been all scratched up, weatherized, etc. Same with the orangutan.
— Some exhibits were under construction, but not too bad.
WILL TRY NEXT TIME
— The petting zoo to the right at the front entrance of the park
— The playground near the hippos.
— The Churro Factory. It smelled delicious when we walked by. I am still kicking myself for not trying one.
— A membership!
TIPS
— If you have young ones that are wagon-​ready, take it instead of your stroller. We have a Radio Flyer Ultimate EZ Fold Wagon. At the risk of sounding like I work for Radio Flyer (which I most certainly do not), it is… Very easy-​to-​use. Compact. Comes with a canopy. Has seat belts for two kids. Pricey, though. Anyway, it was perfect for our kiddos during this visit.
— Don’t forget sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and bring your own liquids and snacks or pack a lunch!
My only regret this trip: Going here without my better half who had to work.
Review #385
Unilocal challenge 2015 ⁶⁶⁄₁₀₀

SO MUCH FUN! Went to LA with my sister to visit my boyfriend. Zoo Day was my only requirement. Animals are way better than humans, so I wanted to see as many as possible. It wasn’t even busy! I’m guessing it’s not the most popular zoo, but hey, animals are animals. Had the best time and saw the cutest lil guys! Even got to go in a petting zoo and made some goat pals!
X’s and O’s!
J

Zoologico ainda é um passeio legal em muitos lugares, embora estejamos preocupados com segurança e conforto dos animais. Enquanto ainda existem, e alguns são fundamentais para manutenção de população, aproveite para visitar o de Los Angeles num dia não muito quente.
É em geral acessado por carro com estacionamento grátis e uma entrada paga moderadamente cara para ajudar na manutenção do parque. Leve tênis bom para andar e se prepare para caminhadas com aclives e declives que cansarão as crianças menores. Melhor trazer carrinhos para elas ou agendar mais tempo de visita do que as 3 horas normais.