Sacramento Zoo Tours

Sacramento Zoo which includes bird life
Sacramento Zoo which includes dangerous animals
Sacramento Zoo featuring animals
Sacramento Zoo featuring land animals and zoo animals
Sacramento Zoo which includes bird life


Up-close encounters with red pandas and giraffes, as well as a host of activities for children, have made the Sacramento Zoo a family favorite for over 85 years.

At the Sacramento Zoo you can observe lions, zebras and other beasts of the African savannah lazing in the sun or peek into the Australian outback where kangaroos spring between groups of emus. An area dedicated to the weird and wonderful world of reptiles will fascinate adults and children alike. Don’t miss the star attraction, the teddy bear-like red pandas gazing back at you from the trees.With an area of 14 acres (5.6 hectares), Sacramento Zoo is easy to navigate on foot, and you can take your time visiting over 500 animals in the different habitats. If you are traveling with children, however, it’s a good idea to start your visit to the zoo with a ride on the train. It will take you on a guided trip around the zoo’s main attractions. Also popular with children is the Conservation Carousel at the front of the park, which features 32 hand-carved and painted animals, including a jaguar, a flamingo and a ladybug. Whatever your age, you’ll feel tiny as you hold an acacia branch up toward the towering giraffes at feeding time. Opportunities to feed the giraffes are daily check with the admissions area when you enter for specific times. Other interactive events, such as the Wildlife Stage Show and chats with various animal keepers, are held daily in summer and on weekends during winter. Enjoy the artwork as you make your way around the zoo. Pieces including Fish Fountain and Pig in a Blanket are positioned at various points throughout the zoo. If you get hungry, Kampala Café and Savannah Snacks offer a range of burgers, sandwiches and drinks. Sacramento Zoo is open daily year-round. It’s located in William Land Park, south of Sacramento city. Parking is free or you can take a bus from the city. Schools often make trips here from Tuesday to Friday mornings, so come on a Monday morning or a weekday afternoon to have the zoo to yourself. Weekend mornings are also fairly quiet.

Plan a trip to see Sacramento Zoo

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Hilton Garden Inn Davis Downtown
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Reviews of Sacramento Zoo

4.1
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
149
5 - Excellent 46%
4 - Good
106
4 - Good 33%
3 - Okay
49
3 - Okay 15%
2 - Disappointing
5
2 - Disappointing 2%
1 - Terrible
17
1 - Terrible 5%

2/5 - Disappointing

Mr

Don't go until they decide what they are going to do with it. There are barely any animals left...

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

I recommend buying the bracelet for carousel and train rides

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

They do have little wagons to take the kids around in which is helpful.. rather small zoo but it does have quite a few animals and a park in the zoo.. would’ve been better to go when it wasn’t mid summer the heat was stifling and not many animals were out and about.. funderland right by the zoo was fun for the kids with little rides and pretty good prices but again it was difficult because the heat made all the seats very hot.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

We always go to the zoo

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Don't ever go to the place

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

if you buy the wristband for kids, expect to have to purchase your own ticket for the train

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Sacramento Zoo

The Westin Sacramento Riverfront Hotel & Spa

The Westin Sacramento Riverfront Hotel & Spa

4 out of 5
4800 Riverside Blvd, Sacramento, CA
The Westin Sacramento Riverfront Hotel & Spa
Hyatt Regency Sacramento

Hyatt Regency Sacramento

4 out of 5
1209 L St, Sacramento, CA
Hyatt Regency Sacramento
Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown-Arena by IHG

Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown-Arena by IHG

3 out of 5
300 J St, Sacramento, CA
Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown-Arena by IHG
Charming-Land Park-3 bdrm home-mins to downtown

Charming-Land Park-3 bdrm home-mins to downtown

Sacramento
Charming-Land Park-3 bdrm home-mins to downtown
Kimpton Sawyer Hotel by IHG

Kimpton Sawyer Hotel by IHG

4 out of 5
500 J Street, Sacramento, CA
Kimpton Sawyer Hotel by IHG
Luxury Modern House with Pool and Fountains

Luxury Modern House with Pool and Fountains

3 out of 5
Sacramento
Luxury Modern House with Pool and Fountains
Charming Storybook Home by Carr Jones

Charming Storybook Home by Carr Jones

Sacramento
Charming Storybook Home by Carr Jones
Modern-Fully Loaded-EV Charger-Big Yard-10 Min DT

Modern-Fully Loaded-EV Charger-Big Yard-10 Min DT

West Sacramento
Modern-Fully Loaded-EV Charger-Big Yard-10 Min DT
Vagabond Inn Executive Old Town

Vagabond Inn Executive Old Town

2.5 out of 5
909 3rd St, Sacramento, CA
Vagabond Inn Executive Old Town
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Sacramento Zoo

At Sacramento Zoo, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including outdoor relaxation and recreational experiences. The zoo is a great spot for a trip, offering engaging wildlife exhibits and beautiful landscapes. Nearby, you can explore additional outdoor experiences, catch live music, or enjoy local theater performances, making it a perfect destination for a fun-filled day in Sacramento.

Shopping

The nearest shopping options near Sacramento Zoo include Downtown Commons, just 3 miles away, offering a vibrant city experience, and Midtown Farmers Market, also 3 miles away, perfect for local goods. If you're up for a drive, head to Arden Fair Mall, located 6 miles away, featuring diverse shops and entertainment.

Recreation

At Sutter Health Park, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of a sports facility just 3 miles from the zoo. For a serene escape, head to William Land Park, only 0.4 miles away, offering peaceful trails and relaxation vibes. The West Sacramento Recreation Center, 2 miles away, is perfect for wellness activities.

Adventure

At Sacramento Zoo, you can splash into fun at Raging Waters, a thrilling waterpark located 5 miles away, perfect for families seeking adventure. Explore the scenic Loch Leven Lakes Trail, only 3 miles from the zoo, or bike along the American River Bicycle Trail, also 5 miles away, for outdoor excitement.

Nightlife

After a day at the Sacramento Zoo, enjoy a show at the Memorial Auditorium, just 3 miles away, for a captivating night of culture and romance. For a more adventurous vibe, visit Land Park Lanes, 1 mile away, or catch a performance at the Sacramento City Actor's Theatre, only 0.7 miles from the zoo.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Sacramento Zoo

Visiting the Sacramento Zoo offers a delightful mix of urban parks, history museums, and event venues, perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Within the zoo and its surroundings, you can explore Capitol Park and discover engaging attractions that provide both outdoor experiences and educational insights. Be sure to check out reviews and plan your trip to make the most of your visit to this vibrant destination in California.

  • Golden 1 Center: Located 3 miles from Sacramento Zoo, this state-of-the-art arena offers a lively atmosphere perfect for families. Home to the Sacramento Kings, it hosts various entertainment events, from concerts to sports, making it a vibrant hub for local culture.
  • Discovery Park: Situated 4 miles away, this expansive urban park is a family-friendly oasis. With scenic walking trails, picnic spots, and stunning views of the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers, it’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to relax and enjoy nature.
  • Sacramento Convention Center: Just 3 miles from the zoo, this modern event venue is perfect for business travelers. It hosts conferences, trade shows, and community events, providing a bustling environment that showcases Sacramento’s professional side.

Best time to go to Sacramento Zoo

The best time to visit Sacramento Zoo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February50.5°F (10.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
April59.7°F (15.4°C)No RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May66.6°F (19.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
June74.5°F (23.6°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July77.5°F (25.3°C)No RainSunnyModerately HighAverage
August76.8°F (24.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
September74.5°F (23.6°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October66.4°F (19.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
November54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sacramento Zoo

To save on your trip to Sacramento Zoo, consider visiting between November and January for lower accommodation prices, especially on Mondays. Utilize Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels by sorting options from lowest to highest price, and consider booking a package that includes flights and activities for added savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can unlock exclusive discounts and earn you OneKeyCash for future stays. Additionally, keep an eye out for hotel specials and senior savings to maximize your budget while enjoying the zoo and its surroundings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Sacramento Zoo are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Sacramento Zoo is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Sacramento Zoo is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel style. To discover the best prices and deals available, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Sacramento Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia