Santa Barbara Zoo

The basics

Visitors to Santa Barbara Zoo can take a trip around the world in the company of animals. From the gorillas of the Congo to lions of the savannah, from Australian koalas to gibbons out of Asian rainforests, the zoo offers the chance to observe a wide variety of wildlife up close. Children will love watching the playful antics of the Humboldt penguins, native to the southern regions of Chile. Interactive exhibits, including giraffe feeding and a petting farm, plus a climbing wall and the charming zoo train, keep the fun going all day.

The zoo is also home to the California condor—the largest land bird in North America and a highly endangered species. Visitors can learn more about the conservation of this rare creature and ongoing efforts to save the species.

Things to know before you go

• Maximize your time at the zoo by purchasing tickets in advance.

• The zoo is wheelchair accessible and wheelchairs are available to rent on site.

• There are two on-site restaurants, plus vending carts around the zoo.

How to get there

The zoo is located at 500 Ninos Drive in Santa Barbara. There's paid parking on-site, or you can take the waterfront shuttle trolley car, which connects the zoo with Santa Barbara’s Amtrak station.

When to get there

The zoo is open every day of the year, but closes early on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. The parking lot fills up quickly during the summer and on the weekends, so plan to get there early if you're driving.

Visit the Santa Barbara Waterfront

For a taste of the California coast, take a stroll or hop on your bike and explore the Santa Barbara Waterfront. With three beaches—offering adventures including guided kayak tours and stand-up paddleboarding—plus a kid-friendly aquarium and waterfront restaurants, there’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy.