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Monterey Zoo

4.0 (211 reviews)
Closed 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Monterey Zoo Photos

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Cheryl B.

The Monterey Zoo is a wonderful place to visit. We really enjoyed our time visiting the animals (especially the lemurs and lions) and walking around the property. I was impressed with how clean, quiet and how large the enclosures were. The habitats and walkways had lots of trees and plants. We were very impressed with the customer service and felt the prices were a good value. We will definitely visit Monterey Zoo next time we are in the area.

Lions
Chas A.

This is a nice zoo in Monterey. Here are just a few things I took notice of and liked- they have a variety of animals, the property is clean, it isn't crowded, there are many shaded areas and well maintained facilities, you hear serene water sounds from the water fountains for every animal in exhibit, and there are many sitting areas with shade. We went at around 11am and many animals were asleep, except for a few. We also saw a brown bear that was awake and pacing around its area and caught one of the lions sit up from it's nap. We definitely need to try one of their feeding events in the future as that looks so much fun. All in all, we're enjoyed our visit and hope to visit again when we're in Monterey county.

Amazingly close!

BEST zoo I've ever been to. All the same animals as major zoos like SF Zoo or Oakland Zoo but a much more private, smaller, less touristy experience. Someone in a review below called this Zoo"quaint"...I would compare going to this zoo to riding on a private jet vs taking a commercial plane. Thev had all the exotic animals you'd expect (Lions, tigers, rhinos, bears, alligators, leopards, kangaroos, zebras, cobra) and the overall venue is cleaner and smaller and much less tacky than typical big-city zoos. I can't imagine why anyone would go vet his place less than 5 stars so I looked at the reviews below...one person said they wished there were more food options. There was a snack truck and plenty of beverage machines. I didn't really mind that there weren't giant pretzels or whatever else you get at the SF zoo. Also I thought the price was fair - the woman at the front desk even pointed me towards a discounted Groupon ticket available online and immediately helped us save $5 per person. Last comment...all the animas were much closer and easier to see than at other zoos. Im not sure my photo below of the rhinos does this zoo justice.

Guy C.

We revisited and did the tourist thing today... Beautifully maintained facility, friendly staff and definitely attentive to the animals. I am also sure they're super well looked after, it's a gr8 educational site for locals but on editing my photo stash it's stuck me in a really melancholy mood !... I guess thats the two sides of the zoo coin !

Tortoise
Lisa V.

Great little zoo where you really get to see the animals! This place is SO clean, the employees were friendly and shared bits of knowledge as they walked by tending the animals. They have 2 juvenile lions who are so playful! The young camels are cute and friendly too! The monkeys are so cute and the baboons a little scary! As others have said, yes there are signs about that say don't touch everything, but it's sad but if parents actually watching their kid it would be fine and no signs needed. No food allowed but they do have some drink machines. We had a great time!

Michael S.

Fantastic little zoo to bring your kids for some close up animal experiences! Please just bare in mind there are small enclosures for a small zoo, so seeing animals not given the space they deserve is quite saddening and heart breaking but you can tell staff here do the best they can by keeping their cages clean and animals fed. Parking is up the hill, one way up, one way out, and have to walk down a pathway set for pedestrians. We purchased our tickets from GroupOn - look for those discounts! Despite purchasing ahead of time, recall you're at a small zoo and staff is limited, so unfortunately you'll have to line up with everyone else. We were surprised to see bears, lions and lionesses, rhinos, wildebeasts, zebras, a hyena, and other animals typically not available in smaller zoos! My wife and I had a fantastic time with our 3 and 4 year old. Definitely a fun stop on the way to Monterey or Carmel by the Sea.

Dana D.

My family had pleasure of booking a personalized tour--and wow, it far exceeded my expectations! From start to finish, the experience was nothing short of amazing. The tour allowed us to get up close and personal with so many incredible animals. Some highlights include meeting the rhinos, kangaroos, and skunks (I had no idea you can get rid of their smell). We got to spray scents for the lions and feed lions blood popsicles. In addition to the lions, we saw many other exotic cats, each with their unique traits and personalities. The care and respect shown for all the animals were evident, which made the experience even more heartwarming. It's clear that the staff at Monterey Zoo are deeply passionate about the animals and their well-being. The tour was perfectly paced, educational, and so much fun. I left with a newfound appreciation for wildlife and our kids smiles will lasted for days. I cannot recommend the Monterey Zoo enough--thank you Charlie, Sanka, Danille, and everyone else for a memorable day.

This is one of the most Beautiful and clean zoos I've ever been to. It is well worth taking your time away from the beach. They have so many animals I haven't seen in years. I will be telling everyone I know who comes to the area regularly. Keep up the good work. Even the gift shop is affordable and has best variety of different stuffed animals.

Josh L.

We always wanted to visit Monterey Zoo and finally made it happened today. The experience exceeded our expectations and staff were super friendly. The exhibits offered a little bit of everything with animals from around the world. Great visit!

It was a very nice zoo in a very nice location. It's a smaller zoo but it gives the opportunity to get to see some of the animals up close!

White Tiger
jeannette h.

Monterey Zoo was a very quaint zoo with great enclosures that seemed to hold happy animals. Kids were especially excited because all the animals were easily visible. Only downside was selection of animals (kids loved elephants), but they had different lions, tigers, cougars, bears, and other smaller animals. Would definitely be back next time we are in the area.

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Charlie S.

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Thank-you so very much Mike. I means the world to us.

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Well run zoo with a great variety of wildlife to see. It's far enjoy away from the coast to have great weather.

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Ask the Community - Monterey Zoo

How much does parking cost? Or is if available with the purchase of a day pass

Please visit www.montereyzoo.org for answers to all you questions and more.

Can you bring food in to picnic?

At this time for permit, staffing and animal security reasons, food is not allowed in the zoo.

Is there a petting zoo section and if so what animals are there for petting?

Although this is a wonderful, well presented zoo they do not offer a petting zoo. Kids can ride on the oversized animal scooters around the zoo. If you pay for a private tour you can pet a rhino and lnyx and take pics with a lemur. The safari tents… Read more

Can I bring my puppy to the zoo?

I’m afraid not as dogs terrify many of the animals in the zoo and our goal is to make our animals feel as safe and comfortable as possible in our care. We are also very cautious of disease transmission which is very concerning in the zoological… Read more

Can I bring a wagon stroller?

Stollers, wagons and the like are permitted. There is an $8 stroller fee for each, with children under 2 yrs. of age they carry being free. There is no outside food allowed in the zoo and contents of strollers and wagons must adhere to the rules… Read more

Do we have to enter at 10am....or anytime between 10-3pm?

You can come in at any time they are open, just make sure you give yourself enough time to see everything before they close...

Is appointment required to visit the park with COVID situation?

No appointment necessary, please visit our website at montereyzoo.org for ALL answers to such matters as well as requirements.

Can you buy food here?

No. No food stands or food options when we went 4/23

Is the business fully open for tourist/visitors yet?

Yes we are. Please visit our websites at MontereyZoo.org and visionquestranch.com for details.

Is it stroller friendly?

Yes! Very wide, smooth paths.

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Review Highlights - Monterey Zoo

I went to this adorable little zoo with my 2 grandchildren (3 & 7) and we had such a great time.

Mentioned in 15 reviews

Read more highlights

Vision Quest Ranch - Bathroom (walls and canvas top) not pictured is mini fridge

Vision Quest Ranch

3.8(317 reviews)
0.0 mi

We booked on Groupon so we could save some $$ which was good so we could do thr two activities…read more later afternoon. On the email it doesn't provide crunchtime with the Tigers which starts at 4:20 and then Buddy's bedtime which starts at 5pm so good thing we arrived at 2:40 for checking in since by 4pm Angie was already gone. We stayed in the #1 bungalow which was nice, Angie was able to add my 2 daughters on the reservation so they set up the futon as a bed. Sam was great for the crunchtime tigers feeding but the other gal who didn't introduce herself for the Rhino bedtime seemed flustered and not friendly at all. After watching the mandatory video of how the rhinos came to VQ, we proceeded to their area. Another gal (Danielle?) joined her and same no welcome, no friendliness. Almost felt these 2 gals were forced to interact with other humans and sure they prefer the animals. At night the Lion constantly roared which didn't bother me since I was knocked out. Angie delivered the continental breakfast which was nice. 9:30 we went to feed the camels and once again the 2 non friendly female staffers were back at it with the camels. Angie and Sam are great and made the visit memorable and worth it. I did knock off a star since if we would of arrived close to 6 as mentioned in the email, we would of missed the 2 activities offered in the evening.

We had a great time in the Monkey Manor! It's right next to the lions and you can hear them roar SO…read moreLOUDLY! The bungalows are spread out with tall grasses in between so there is plenty of room. There is a viewing area overlooking the zebra/rhino/water buffalo area that is great to eat breakfast at. In the afternoon they bring you 2 different animals for a private viewing, we had a skunk and an alpaca. In the morning we got to feed camels! For extra at 5:00 pm they have a rhino bedtime experience where you get to go into the rhino sheds and then give them pats and rubs! What an experience! Also included is one day at the zoo and they even bring your breakfast at your bungalow! We loved our visit!!

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Vision Quest Ranch - Bungalow number two: monkey manor

Bungalow number two: monkey manor

Vision Quest Ranch - Outside Big Cat Bungalow

Outside Big Cat Bungalow

Vision Quest Ranch - Feeding the tigers

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Feeding the tigers

Animal Art Farm

Animal Art Farm

5.0(29 reviews)
28.5 mi

This place is awesome. The owner is extremely energetic with both my little girls. Animals are…read moresuper friendly and there is so many fun activities around this whole area. There's also a spot where the animals are not in so yhe kids can play with the toys and sand. 100% would recommend and we will be returning. The owner said they are going to be open on the weekends, certain days.

I happened to visit this magical place today for a child's birthday party. My visit today had a…read moreprofound impact on my life, and that's not an exaggeration. I have been in a bit of a funk for the past several days due to an upsetting issue that I have been dealing with. I have been struggling to get my own energetic vibration back up to a comfortable place and maintain it there. As such, I have been walking around feeling like a character from an antidepressant commercial with a dark, rainy cloud hanging over my head. Every now and then, the rain would stop for a while, but the cloud persisted. Until today. I experienced true bliss every moment that I spent at Farmer Jen's farm today. I pet the most docile llamas with the beautifully soulful eyes. I painted with an adorable, super chill bearded dragon named Sunshine relaxing on the table. I pet beautiful corn snakes, helped children tie knots for a craft, made my own craft (which involved painting chickens on rocks while surrounded by the unusually friendly chickens), and watched my kids joyfully paint and play. It was almost as though we stepped into a movie, complete with background music from a perfectly curated playlist. One of the partygoers was crying about their artwork not turning out the way they wanted, and Farmer Jen jumped in and beautifully helped them (and literally turned their frown upside down with her compassionate words and actions). My blues seem to have vanished after visiting this idyllic farm and spending time with these strangely mellow creatures. It struck me that Farmer Jen never once expressed concern over kids interacting with her animals. She is super mellow and happy, and her calm and content energy seems to permeate her entire property and all of the creatures there. I'm so grateful for today's experience, and can't wait to go back there again someday.

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Animal Art Farm
Animal Art Farm
Animal Art Farm

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Happy Hollow Park & Zoo - Closer look at the oldest turkey I've seen .

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

4.0(1.1k reviews)
52.2 miEast San Jose

I am honestly so floored by Happy Hollow Park & Zoo being operated for 65+ year and there doesn't…read moredoesn't seem to be any signs of that changing. This establishment opened its doors back in 1961 and I have fond memories of visiting here on elementary field trips. I now get to make new ones with my toddler.... Being born and raised in the East Side, I am ashamed to admit that it took for my daughter to go on her 1st Pre-K fieldtrip to officially experience Happy Hollow. To my defense, there were covid worries swirling around her first few years of life and being a first time mom, staying in just seemed like the safer bet. LMAO- tell me I'm not the only one who felt this way?? Since then, we have made 2 trip with her school and a few random visits on the weekends. I can confirm that my 6 year old is absolutely a fan. Here you will find: a zoo, rides, puppet theater, large play structure, & petting zoo. The zoo is quite small and although it is listed as having 60 different species, I don't find that number as being accurate. I caught wind of a new red panda being welcomed here but there was no sign of him. To be honest, a lot of the enclosures seemed empty whenever we visit. The rides are great for kids- they compliment younger kids due to the lack of speed. The puppet theater is always enjoyed- no only does it provide entertainment but it gives you a break from being on your feet. The play structure is always a crowd favorite where all the kiddos can run wild and free. [[Parents, this is your time to re-fuel with some much needed caffeine.]] Last but not least, our favorite-EST thing to do here is visiting the petting zoo where you are able to interact with goats and sheep. They unfortunately got rid of quarter machines allowing visitors to feed the animals. My child can literally spend hours here brushing and cuddling up with the animals- my only advice is watching where you step because these creatures will relieve themselves without warning. 4 stars. Be advised that parking is an additional $10 prior to you even purchasing passes to enter the park.

If you didn't grow up going to Happy Hollow, and you say you're from San Jose, are you REALLY?…read more Happy Hollow will always have a special place in my heart. I grew up going there as a kid, and now getting to bring my own child feels really full circle. There's something so nostalgic and magical about it, one of those places that truly spans generations. From the rides to the animals to the play areas, there's just enough variety to keep kids entertained without it feeling chaotic. My child absolutely loves it every time we go. What I appreciate most is how it still holds onto that classic charm while staying clean, well-kept, and family-friendly. The food is pretty good, too! Special shout out to David for being super friendly and helpful. Become a member if you have kids, it is so worth it!

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Happy Hollow Park & Zoo - My son looking at the turkey

My son looking at the turkey

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo - Oldest turkey I've ever seen ..

Oldest turkey I've ever seen ..

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo - Mini cars for small kids

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Mini cars for small kids

Seymour Marine Discovery Center - 2025

Seymour Marine Discovery Center

4.5(194 reviews)
34.6 mi

You need a whaling of a good time... This is the place to go…read more Pro tip: it's past past the butterflies Parking is free in weekends but there are plenty of park to pay machines around Things to touch, yes! Walking paths, yes! Gift shop, yes! Super friendly staff, yes! Support science! Highly recommend!

B A C K G R O U N D:…read more This place is the true definition of a hidden gem! It is a small but mighty center I wish I had found sooner! My family and I enjoyed ourselves so much that we knew-within ten minutes of visiting-that we would be back! I can't compare Seymour to Monterey Bay Aquarium since I haven't been to the latter for many years, but my husband recalls this center being more interactive: there are cheerful staff sharing their knowledge all around the center, and there is a mini tour that offers gorgeous views (this tour is included in cost of admission, so be sure to do it!!). V A L U E: -Exceptional value for all ages (and free for children under age 3). L O G I S T I C S: -You can book tickets ahead of time online, but it also seems you can pay at the door. -Parking is free on weekends and holidays. There is a spacious lot right by the entrance. E D U CA T I O N A L E X P E R I E N C E: -highly informative for all ages. I especially appreciated the climate change focused information. -Staff led a great tour that was interesting but not too long. They even had props to pass around while we listened, which kept my small kids engaged and quiet. Thank you, Kade and Shannon! G O O D T O K N O W: -You can pet a swell shark! -There are microscopes for children to see seashells up close. -There are plenty of books, coloring sheets, games, and toys in a corner if you have small children who you'd like to keep in one space.

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Seymour Marine Discovery Center - 2025

2025

Seymour Marine Discovery Center - 2025

2025

Seymour Marine Discovery Center - Wedding reception

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Wedding reception

Monterey Zoo - zoos - Updated May 2026

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