Explore the wonders of the natural world at the Santa Barbara Zoo, where the beauty of the wildlife is matched only by the lush grounds and sweeping views. Located just two miles from State Street, this 30-acre park is home to more than 146 species, including mammals, reptiles, birds and insects, exhibited in open, naturalistic habitats overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains. Some of the Zoo’s most famous residents include penguins, giraffes, anteaters, gorillas, and a flock of native California condors.
The Zoo can be toured in about two hours, but you’ll likely be tempted to linger longer. Described by the Food Network as “the Audrey Hepburn of zoos—petite, charming and beautiful,” it’s a must-see Santa Barbara attraction, especially for families with kids. Meet the Zoo’s tallest creatures during giraffe feeding time, or take a relaxing ride around the park on the Zoo Train. Don’t miss the Ridley-Tree Animal Kitchen, where you can observe the impressive food-prep process for the Zoo’s 500+ animals.
Zoo Hours, Admission & Parking
The Santa Barbara Zoo is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. by online reservation only. The Zoo occasionally closes early for special events.
Admission is $25 for adults (age 13+) and $15 for children (age 2–12). Admission is free for children under two years old. (The Zoo Train, giraffe feeding, and other attractions are an additional cost.) Parking is $11/vehicle.
Tips for Your Visit
Note that on summer days and weekends, the parking lot fills early. You may be able to find parking outside the Zoo, or consider taking alternative transportation, such as the trolley. The Santa Barbara Amtrak station is a 35-minute walk to the Zoo, or find more Santa Barbara Car Free transportation information here.
The Santa Barbara Zoo is fully accessible to people with disabilities. Wheelchairs and electronic convenience vehicles (ECV) are available for rent at the main gift store. The ECV supply is limited, so call 805-962-5339 before your visit to make a reservation. Parking for the disabled is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Zoo offers many delicious dining options, including the Ridley-Tree House Restaurant, the Wave café and several seasonal specialty food carts and vending machines throughout the park. Beer and wine are available at both the Ridley-Tree House and the Wave.
Need a break? Stop by the Kallman Family Play Area across from the Zoo Train station and let the little ones run wild. They can hide inside of kid-sized dinosaur eggs, make like a spider crawling across the rope web or slide down the giant ant hill.
Not only is the Zoo a great place for a family excursion, it’s also a unique place to host a special event. The scenic seaside hilltop is ideal for weddings and company picnics, and indoor event spaces include the beautiful, state-of-the art Discovery Pavilion. Find information about hosting a private event at the Santa Barbara Zoo here.
