SAN FRANCISCO ZOO
Address: Sloat Boulevard at the Great Highway, San Francisco
Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Ticket prices: With S.F. residency—Adults ages 15–64, $20 | Seniors ages 65 and over, $14.50 | Children ages 4–14, $13.50 | Children ages 3 and under, free. (Prices for non-S.F. residents differ.)
Home to over 2,000 exotic flora and fauna varieties, this 1,000-acre urban oasis is located in the southwestern corner of San Francisco, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The San Francisco Zoo and Gardens allows for much more than just admiring the wildlife. Featuring a state-of-the-art, three-acre African Savanna exhibit; the four-story Osher Rainforest; and lush gardens, the zoo gives visitors an opportunity to connect with the wondrous wilderness. Is there anything better than feeding a red panda, admiring birds (especially the American pelicans, who have a nine-foot wingspan), or watching cute penguins inhabit their own tiny island? We think not, so spend your time wisely amongst these adorable animals.
The fun doesn’t stop here—for those interested in studying life-like sculptures of living organisms, go to the Sculpture Learning Plaza. The Leanne B. Roberts African Savanna is also one of the most popular exhibitions. Featuring African wildlife living in an open-spaced harmonious environment, this exhibit lets you observe giraffes, zebras, kudus, crowned cranes, ostriches, and marabou stork.
PALO ALTO JUNIOR MUSEUM AND ZOO
Address: Cubberley Community Center, 4050 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Sunday, 1–4 p.m.
Ticket price: There’s a suggested $5 donation per person.
Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo is the perfect place to go with your kids. Aside from housing over 200 indigenous species—such as bobcats, hedgehogs, a giant tortoise, and raccoons—the institution also boasts a 2,500-square-foot indoor exhibition that gives kids an opportunity to learn through a fun and engaging process. The displays here are designed to help children better connect with nature and experience science through hands-on lessons.
The zoo is relatively small in size, which makes it even more attractive for parents. Your kids won’t easily get lost and will be able to stay alert and focused during their entire exploratory experience. The zoo even offers programs for communities and schools and hosts summer camps, workshops, and family birthday parties.
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