Educator Package: Includes educational resources, interactive project ideas, trip organization, direct experiential opportunities to help better connect the experience with your students and complimentary chaperone ticket. Does not include student ticket.
 
Student Package: Includes engaging pre and post educational visit activities, trip organization and student ticket.
 
 
About the Santa Barbara Zoo
The Santa Barbara Zoo, located in a picturesque setting overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offers an engaging and educational experience with a wide variety of animals from around the world. The zoo is dedicated to animal care, conservation, and providing an immersive learning environment for visitors of all ages.
 
Historical Overview
Foundation: The Santa Barbara Zoo was founded in 1963 and has since become a beloved institution in the community. The zoo is known for its beautiful landscapes, innovative exhibits, and commitment to conservation efforts.
Purpose: The zoo aims to connect people with animals, inspire conservation of the natural world, and provide a world-class experience for visitors through educational exhibits and programs.
 
Key Features and Exhibits
African Veldt: This expansive exhibit replicates the African savanna, featuring giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and antelopes. The open landscapes and mixed-species habitats provide a naturalistic environment for the animals.
Cats of Africa: Home to African lions and other big cats, this exhibit offers a close-up view of these majestic predators. Educational displays provide insights into their behavior, biology, and conservation status.
California Trails: This exhibit highlights the diverse wildlife native to California, including Channel Island foxes, desert tortoises, and California condors. The exhibit emphasizes local conservation efforts and the importance of protecting native species.
Elephant Walk: Featuring Asian elephants in a spacious and enriching environment, this exhibit provides visitors with the opportunity to learn about elephant behavior, care, and the conservation challenges they face in the wild.
The Forest’s Edge: This exhibit features Western lowland gorillas in a habitat designed to replicate their natural environment. Visitors can observe the gorillas’ complex social interactions and learn about efforts to protect them in the wild.
Australian Walkabout: An interactive exhibit that allows visitors to walk among kangaroos, wallabies, and emus. This immersive experience highlights the unique wildlife of Australia and the zoo’s role in their conservation.
Reptile House: Home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians, the Reptile House features snakes, lizards, frogs, and more. Interactive displays educate visitors about these often misunderstood creatures.
Kids’ World: Designed for younger visitors, Kids’ World features a petting zoo, educational play areas, and exhibits that introduce children to the wonders of the animal kingdom in a fun and interactive way.
 
Visiting Tips for Families
Plan Ahead: Check the Santa Barbara Zoo’s website for current exhibits, special events, and educational programs to make the most of your visit. Check operating times to ensure the zoo is open during your planned visit.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking through the zoo’s exhibits.
Bring Essentials: Pack water and snacks. The zoo also offers dining options, and there are picnic areas available for those who prefer to bring their own food.
Engage with Staff: Utilize the knowledgeable staff and volunteers who can provide insights and answer questions about the animals and conservation efforts.
Participate in Activities: Encourage students to participate in any available interactive exhibits to enhance their learning experience and enjoyment of the zoo.
 
By visiting the Santa Barbara Zoo, families can explore a wide variety of wildlife and learn about the importance of conservation and biodiversity. The zoo provides a dynamic and educational environment that inspires curiosity, respect for animals, and a deeper understanding of the natural world. Whether observing gorillas, exploring the African Veldt, or enjoying the interactive Australian Walkabout, the Santa Barbara Zoo offers an enriching experience for visitors of all ages
 
Please note: some animals (such as the lions, gorillas, and otters) have early bedtimes and will not be out after 4:30 PM.
 
Train Ride Add On: 
Embark on a journey "around the world" in just ten minutes aboard the Zoo Train! A beloved choice for families, it offers a delightful blend of fun facts about the animals, insights into the zoo's conservation initiatives, historical tidbits, and exclusive peeks behind the scenes of select exhibits.
Operating daily from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, weather permitting.