Reviews of Santa Ana Zoo (Zoo)

Samuel Eun

This is well organized but seems to be for toddlers. Don't expect many animals, most of them are livestocks here. They run small rides, but charge you every time. Foods are the worst. They don't allow you to bring your own food, but their foods are expensive. Good for one time visit, but I don't want to come back. Not recommend, either.

Tomas Aranda

I been going to the Santa Ana Zoo for the past 30 years. I love going because I can take my own food and have a picnic with my family and enjoy seeing al the animals, just like my parents use to do with me When I was a child.

Jim Z

This small zoo is a great family option if you don't want to spend an entire day to only see part of the LA Zoo. Kids like it here and was great when they were young. Easy to see the whole thing in a couple hours. Free parking and I've always found a parking space easily. Eat before you go; not at all imprwssed by the food they sell.

Maria

Great place to take the kids! Price is very reasonable. Can't take your food or drinks inside but you can take your ice chest with your lunch and drinks. They have a vety nice shady picnic area right outside by the free parking lot. plenty of parking.

ceejcake xD

Is pretty epic :) Not much to say I guess, but it’s good

William Andreozzi

Great place to take the family; always something new to see. The animals come out at various times; so you may need to come back to see some of them.

Benjamin Philpott-Matson

Nice place to walk around and see monkeys, anteaters and other neat creatures. Also, they have a Ferris wheel and playground.

Lena Balak

Nice zoo. Not very many animals but there is a lot for kids to do. A playground and grass area and it's an easy day out.

mishelle hampton

Alot of animals were unavailable the ones that were seemed sedated except one set of monkeys and camels

A F

This place is awesome! Only downside is that parking can be tough, street parking is available if the zoo lot is full. Saw quite a few neat animals, notably ocelot, sloth, and giant anteaters, along with several different monkey and ape varieties. A good way to spend a couple of hours

Ozzie Montejo

Cause it's a zoo! Also the little private area is nice for family time

Lindsey Benton

Small quite zoo, to bring kidos here. There is also a lot of monkeys here haha so if you like them.. :)

Sal Aduna

Nice little place to take your family and have fun

David Roundy

Lots of monkeys in a pleasantly small zoo that can fit into a morning.

Jan Woodman

Many of the animal enclosures were empty. We didn’t see even one bird in the aviary until at the end where there were a few ibis in a tree. The ride area was only open from 11-2:00. The food choices were ridiculous and over priced. Very disappointing to our 4 year old granddaughter. The thing she liked the best was the playground and we could have done that at any number of parks, but instead we paid $27 for a very marginal zoo.

Melz T

This is a small local zoo with a wide variety of primates as main attraction. We have a 4yo and 2 yo and this is a place they can come time after time and not get bored so the $99 annual family membership was worth it for us plus you get discounted or free entry to other venues. They also have a playground, train, wheel, and carousel. Lots of shaded sitting areas for pic nic or you can enjoy their Bean Sprouts cafe with a good selection of food and they also serve coffee, tea, and smoothies.

joshuapope2001

Very disappointing. The size of the zoo and collection of animals makes this the worst $12 I ever spent. There were many enclosures that had nothing in them. According to signage many enclosures were undergoing work. This was only apparent in one. The animals seem to be healthy. Most staff were nice and welcoming.

Shauna Williams

Kinda small but nice way to see some animals without having to walk around all day. It needs some upgrading, more interactive for the kids to do, more food options and the first rest room for the ladies needs to be fixed before the toilets fall off the wall. Overall the kids enjoyed themself and thata what counts.

Slick Dick

I live across the street from the zoo and the parking is packed at night on the street. The zoo needs to keep the gates open 24/7 so that the residents have a parking space for the night. The zoo parking should not be left useless in the night time. If the zoo won't give us overnight parking in the parking lot then this place should be gone and be replaced with a new shopping center.

raul bustos

Good friendly place near home to take the kiddos on a Sunday afternoon casual stroll like taking a walk on the park only with lots of different types of species to see . I like it cause my kids ages from 1 1/2 yr & 3 yr & 6 yr & 12& 13 yr all can have fun being at the same place ! Thank Sabra ana cause it doesn’t break my pocket it’s fairly reasonable going here !

chula D.L.T

Small few animals but kids loved it . Mine where 2 n 9 so it was perfect for them .

Demetria Schulmeyer

Great for kids, clean, all animals were actually awake and out. Has a Couple of playgrounds and rides for kids as well.

Tyler santiago-gamble

Small zoo, pretty good for what it is. It has a lot to improve upon but is going in the right direction

Celina Ruiz-Cortez

Great little zoo for the little ones and for a nice family picnic.

Lindsay Koehle

We really enjoyed seeing all of the different types of monkeys but unfortunately there wasn't a very big variety of other types of animals. The aviary seemed like it would be a neat exhibit, but we only saw two birds when we walked through, which was disappointing. We also were led to believe there would be an area for petting some of the farm animals but there was just a sign saying that the animals were not available for petting at this time. Although the admission fee was quite reasonable, we found the rides to be expensive (and of course our son wanted to try all of them so that brought the overall cost of the trip up). We also would have liked it if there was a change station in the men's washroom (dads change bums too!).

Waed Abualhaj

It was almost empty of animals, I don't like it and it is not worth the ticket

Tina Cahill

Only $12.00 bucks or a Year Family pass for only $99 bucks couldn't believe it. It's a great place to relax with the family and walk around under the beautiful trees and see all the different animals. Free parking and the kids had fun. We laughed couldn't believe such a nice place right in the middle of the city of Santa Ana, it's like a tropical escape.

Colby Wakeman

Fun little zoo in the heart of Orange County. Great for a fun short adventure. We spent about two hours here. More time can be spent if the kids are more into the animals. There are a few pay to ride activities such as train ride, merry go round, and Ferris wheel

David Christensen

They try selling an upgrade to an annual pass, that gives you discounts at other zoo's. Which is nice, but their exhibits are mainly vacant. Therefore you walk through the zoo in next to no time. Previously we had gone on a rainy day and thought that may have been the reason for the exhibits being empty unfortunately that doesn't seem to be the case. It's a neat Zoo with lots of potential but could use some attention.

Lily Yee

Great neighborhood place for younger kids. Playground with sand, rides (train, ferris wheel, carousel), zoo animals, farm animals. Inexpensive. Friendly staff.

Kristen Knecht

Perfect little zoo for small children. Not as diverting for older children.

Maxine Walsh

My grandkids really enjoyed it it was amazing. Thank you.

to do

Lots of monkeys that's about it. Kinda makes me happy that not many captive animals. The bald eagle is beautuful.

ericka alonzo

Tried the food this time and we both loved it. Great park when the animals are active. Kiddo loved to play here regardless.

Julie Freistat

First time. A lot of fun. The monkey exhibit was the best.

Rosalia Olguin

Kinda small and i felt bad for the animals in that enviroment. I do think it's a nuce playground for kids to hang out.

Jason Ramierez

This place can be a nice little day date or a wonderful time with friends and family. Super Kid friendly. This Cali gem will certainly bring the kid out of you.

Gertrude George

the Santa Ana Zoo is a nice small zoo. The day we were there it was cool, so there were several animals moving around in their habitat it was “Fun Time!” This is a wonderful zoo and an entertaining place for small children. It is a good place for a morning trip or an afternoon visit. Camels, and Ocelots were our fav. Sunsets at the zoo is great too with live music, is a MUST.

Art Harrington

Came on a Sunday in July. Not very crowded at all. As a first time visitor to this zoo I kind of expected a little more to see. Lots of monkeys, didn't see any tigers, saw lots of birds and an ant eater. Go ahead and bring your snacks. They didn't even check our bags. No AAA discounts. $12 for adults. Train ride was 5 minutes long $9.50

Fernando Rosendo

Wonderful place to bring curious children who want to meet and learn about animals. Small and cozy without the large crowds

Chris Warren

Very interesting, saw the tiniest monkey and an owl that was so different. I hope they can change the ocelot exhibit as it just went back and forth and it was so sad to see that. Worth visiting again and a new water exhibit coming soon!

Bryce Ramos

The animals are cool and it's always great to be around an exotic ambience. The staff is pleasant and welcoming. 10/10

sukanya govindan

Neat little place to take the kids. Little small but makes it a cozy place to visit. kids love it.which is all that matters

Bekah B

Always love going here. The monkeys are always so animated. The zoo is kinda small but it's also nice to be able to see everything and just watch the animals. We watched the hawk eat a mouse last time which was VERY interesting! I go with my family as a tradition and it's a wonderful time. It's nice they let you bring a picnic in too and there is a playground as well. I recommend.

MeshariM2O

Nice place to spend time in the weekend with the family around the neighbourhood. I loved the scenery and they've got some nice collection of different animals

Betty Holmes

This zoo is perfect for a day to get out and have lunch and see a camel, monkey some birds. It really is a beautiful place with lots of shade to walk around. Small kids will love it and it is very cute for a small Zoo.

Patricia Huizar

Great Zoo to bring the little kids. Bring food and kids love playground. This Zoo is less stress on parents. It's not crowded and small. No big animals but that perfect for us.

Josiah Canto

Over 60 species of monkeys right now, very cool!

Kay Hamilton

Very nice and fun little zoo!! Great for all ages. Great new Farris Wheel.

Alexandra nionok

Really small zoo, don't expect much. The choice of food in a cafe is really poor, and there's nothing around, so carry some snacks. Many shady places to sit and relax which is a definite plus! It is a good place to spend couple hours, not more. There is no petting zoo. And there was no feeding at the farm when we were there.

Connor Norvell

Awful zoo. Half or more of the animals were not there, like, empty cages. Including the ocelot that they have pictures of all over the zoo. the bird exhibit had 1 bird, and it was a duck. Multiple animals can only be seen by buying a 5 minute train ride for $10ish. Rides were shut down, playground had boards blocked parts of it and caution tape around other parts. Massive waste of time and money.

Virginia Pender

Kids loved it. Wish there were more animals.

Gabriel Rodriguez

This is possibly one of the WORST Zoo's i've been in. Worst excuse for a Zoo....oohhh and I hope you guys enjoy the coming soon signs. No interesting animals. The only enjoyment you're going to get is leaving. I hated it.

Ever Purple

Liked their collection of monkeys. They were very active when I visited, swinging from branch to branch.They have two very cute looking healthy camels and parakeet. It's a small zoo but perfect for little kids. They have reserved party areas and tables and chairs for dining and relaxing

The Sqootz

So many monkeys! This is a great place to bring young ones. In addition to the many monkeys, there are plenty of other fun creatures. There is also a traditional playground, kiddie rides, and educational exhibits. If you are going more than a few times, get the annual membership.

V Lord

So much more improved over the past decade! Well kept, super easy parking, adorable. Great SoCal feature. Great for dates. Nice day out

Ron Salazar

If you like monkey's, this is the place for you. It is very, very small, with very few exhibits, and what they do have are mainly monkeys. It was okay, came with a school group, but I don't think I'd personally come outside a school field trip.

Patricia Espinoza

I wish this wonderful Zoo was closer to home! I have to drive close to an hour to get there but... I just love this perfect sized Zoo. Very kid friendly nice train and kid rides as well as a dual playground. Excellent little cafe servings healthy kid snacks and drinks. My daughter enjoyed it so much she left kicking and screaming! This place is a must!

Danielle Zambrano

During the week there are no shows. If there was some especially during summer time would be great but overall perfect for my 2 year old to run around have lunch and spend an afternoon.

Daniel Garcia

Great place to take your kids for a couple hours. Easy access and free parking. Reasonably priced.

Leslie Gonzalez

This zoo is the greatest thing ever. That's on periodt. The goats are the only thing that makes me happy and I have the chance to feed them. Like this place is not just for kids. Its is for people who want to live out their dreams. Thank you Santa Ana Zoo. Yeah I guess the monkeys are cool too.

Dick Beck

This is a really nice zoo in the middle of the city. It you like tiny monkeys you're gonna love this zoo. If you like sloths prepare to be disappointed because despite going several times we've never seen the sloth. Are you even real Inigo? Or are you nothing but a plaque that carries your name?

Richard Kim

The Santa Ana Zoo membership is great for the family. We frequented the place for the carousel and train ride. The kids loved it. The animals are great to visit and revisit because they always do something different.

dan henderson

Great place to take little kids. Small town zoo.

James Melton

This zoo is great for the family, especially with little kids. Large play area and fun activities.

Hayden Richey

Lots of Monkeys Mainly But Good For a Day Trip

ted rodriguez

I went on a. Saturday morning at 10:30. Parking was easy and free. It took 2 hours to see everything and ride the train and carousel. It's pretty basic but good for a 2 year old.

Shae fearence

Mostly monkeys here not alot of animals but it was okay no complaints

Hal Weiss

It's a quaint local zoo. It has nice collection of animals, a few kiddie rides, and a small playground for the young ones. There's also healthy food to be purchased and a small gift shop. I bought the annual pass so I can bring my grandson whenever we fee like dropping by.

Brooke Hill

We needed something to keep our kids entertained for a few hours. We got to the zoo right after it opened in the morning. It was nice and quiet, and we werent really sure where to go. For a small town zoo it was ok, but for the price i was not impressed. My kids wanted to do the rides and train but we passed due to how pricey they were!! We were sad there weren't many big animals. We will try the other local zoo next time and hope for a better outcome.

Quamisha Harris

Very small zoo with small animals but small children will enjoy

Debo Domin

Gets only 4 stars only because it is small and towards the back the animals are all the same (monkeys). But overall, a cute place to visit especially for children less than 8 years old. We love the short train ride. During the month of October they have several safe Halloween trick or treating nights. This is always a fun event for us.

Cesar Castro

It's very small and well kept

Jamie Moseley

It's a small zoo but well maintained. The highlight of my trip was the Amazon Bird Aviary. The zoo is very kid friendly.

Misty Gray

Nice place for a quick outing, and affordable. First time here and I grew up in the area. I will deffinatly return!

Richard Jamison

Really good for a small zoo. It has a selection of monkeys and some exotic birds. It has two camels, one of which is named Humphrey. Be sure to catch the train ride.

Alexander Passmore

Small kids? Romantic couple? Older folk wanting a stroll and a coffee amongst the monkeys? This is the place for you! Especially if you like monkeys. This place has one of the largest collections of different species of monkey in the State, maybe even the country. As such you will see types of monkey not found anywhere else. You will see troop of monkeys screaming, and chasing and generally acting out. There is plenty of shade, and plenty of seating, and plenty of parking. What more could you ask?

robert byrne

Great for small kids but the rides will kill the wallet. Playground and gift shop allow for lots of things to do and the animal exhibits are good. The annual pass is a bargain.

Debra Eubanks

Not to crowd. Great prices. Places for private parties. Playgrounds for children and rides.

Betty Carpio

I just want to say WOW! What a difference from the La Zoo. For 1) the prices are affordable 2) They have a food stand that only sells healthy food for you and your family 3) They have a play area for the kids and rides. I would totally come here again!

Lilly FlowersDream

So I went with my friends on a field trip and then there was only 1 food court, she waited in line for 1 hour along with many other students from out school, and guess what it ended up wasting the time of me and my friends. I was so upset and would be greatly appreciated of you were to build another food court.

Vipada D

This place is more of a park with animals rather than a zoo. You could easily walkthrough it in about an hour and a half. It is still a nice place to bring younger kids, get in some walking, and being outside. The play area is nice but the rides could get a tad pricey.

Megan Gearhart

Like lots of other people have shared this place is PERFECT for the 8 and under set. My three year old loved everything about it, and I loved that it was just big enough to be exciting but no so big that we got lost. Nice variety of animals too.

Jacquie Michael

It's a very small zoo with not very many animals! The food, however, was good!

Abby Meline

When your children are very young it's difficult for them to make it through a big city zoo. But Santa Ana Zoo is just the right size and offers a close-up look at the animals, in particular, the monkeys. Because Mr. Prentice, the property owner, made the city of Santa Ana promise to always keep at least 50 monkeys at the zoo, they are known for their monkeys. A nice place to visit and you're finished in one afternoon.

tania rubio

The third Sunday of every month is free for Santa Ana Residents with a valid ID

Matthew Morgen

Surprised at how nice this was! Very compact, but had mountain lions, bears, petting zoo... Lots for kids

Vanessa Flores

Relaxing but not very many animals to see mostly birds and farm animals lots of stalls empty there was a volunteer named Jose who was quite knowledgeable about the animals there we had a great conversation!

Sommer Garcia

What a gorgeous place to take a stroll. Although not as large as big names zoo's, this quaint zoo features an assortment of animals. The staff was super friendly and helpful. Their map was easy to navigate. Pricing is fair considering this a small nonprofit educational facility. This place is definitely a treasure in the heart of Santa Ana. It's a great place to bring children and explore different animals, exhibits while learning about new creatures. You can really tell that the staff and zoo keepers really care about this place. Overall, great experience and great establishment.

QUEEN ELIZABETH

we went on a field trip with my sons school WE LOVED IT!! We will be back with the family very soon

Sarah Fiske

Worst zoo in California... maybe the world. Other than a handful of monkeys their was no zoo animals. This was the biggest disappointment and a huge waste of time. The kids were bored and thought it was as lackluster as the adults did. Don't take your family here. Save yourself the money and go somewhere else!! The only positive thing that happened was getting a full refund for joke of a zoo.

Roderick Conwi

The Santa Ana Zoo is a nice small zoo in Orange County. There are monkeys, camels, parrots, camels, and more. My youngest son really likes the bald eagle exhibit. I would say that it’d be a good half-day trip. There is a kids playground along with a train and Ferris wheel. The gift shop, like the rest of the zoo, is small, but nice. Parking is free, which is a plus. I’ve been here twice and my family and I had a food time every time.

Patricia Euzarraga

Have not been here in long time, it is the except you have a carousal and faire wheel. Ok.

Paul Williams

Hot! The zoo on a July afternoon is hot! There are some monkees, a bald eagle and a barn owl or two.... The kids enjoy the monkees, But, I enjoyed sitting on the bench in the shade!

Aaron Kantarovich

A very fun, exciting place to come and visit. Admission prices are good. There is great food to order if anyone is feeling hungry. This zoo has lots of interesting animals to watch in their habitats. My favorite are the monkeys here!

Kimberly Gerbrand

Super family fun. My kids and I loved it. And really enjoyed that they had a playground there. Will be coming back soon.

Rachel B

This is a fun zoo. Not big but cozy enough to bring your toddlers and feel safe in this environment. They have changed their menu to an healthier one and have added rides to their park. Very enjoyable

Jesse Human

Nice zoo. We come here often with the kids. It's cool that they keep adding new animals over the last couple years.

Andy Biolchino

Great monkey exhibits, and fun rides.

Kevin Moran

Small zoo but enough to keep the kids occupied for a few hours. Reasonable prices for entry and drinks.

Marcelo Orellana

Great place to spend time with your little ones. The train and carousel make is really fun and exciting. The Ferris wheel is a must for everyone. The ticket prices are priced well. My favorite is the American Bald Eagle, our little just loved all the animals. The restaurant is now Bean Sprouts which my wife and I were very pleased to see because we enjoy feeding our little our little healthy and nutritious food.

Alayna W

Went here with my kids. It was good fun, but a little crowded. The kids had fun with all the different animals. Parking was ok, but could be improved.

Yesenia Ponce

Small cute place to visit..bit pricey on the kids rides

Terrisa P

Very fun and educational Project: "Growing Up Wild" 2020 Yay!!!

Justin Skiba

We love this zoo. Whenever we are in the area, we love to bring our kids. It is clean, well-organized, and offers a lot of unique animals to see and a nice train ride.

Maribel Hernandez

My Son Matthew Arriaga works here. Me and some family members went yesterday had really good time would definitely visit again soon all the staff here are real friendly people. A real nice place for kids. Kids of all ages.

Sandra Johnson

Good for small children; petting and feeding areas were closed.

gaby angel

Excited for the new projects there not much right now its under construction . donation will do well !! Love bringing my kids here