Santa Barbara Zoo
500 Ninos Drives, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, 93103
On a 30-acre (12-hectare) plot overlooking the ocean, the Santa Barbara Zoo is home to over 140 different species, which live in habitats designed to mirror their native environments. Adults and children will both find plenty to enjoy here.
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.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!