Santa Barbara Zoo, Santa Barbara

Known as “one of the world’s most beautiful zoos,” the Santa Barbara Zoo is located on 30 acres of botanic gardens and is home to nearly 500 animals. The giraffes have a view of beach volleyball, due to their location on a hill overlooking popular East Beach and the Pacific Ocean. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, representing the highest level of animal care, and participates in endangered species programs for Asian elephant, Amur leopard, and Western lowland gorilla, among others. Newly returned to the Zoo after a four-year hiatus are the world’s largest rodents…the capybaras! These cute critters share exhibit space with giant anteaters. The California Trails exhibit features endangered and threatened animals from the Golden State, including rare California condors, island foxes, and desert tortoises. African species include lions, Masai giraffes, slender-tailed meerkats, and Western lowland gorillas. Asian small-clawed otters, golden lion tamarins, and Amur leopards are perennial visitor favorites, while bird fans flock to see the Zoo’s Humboldt penguins and Chilean flamingos. Live stage shows star high-tech dinosaur puppets, including Duncan the T. rex, or Tiny the storytelling grizzly bear. Guests can also ride the Zoo Train, pan for gems at Rattlesnake Quarry, or climb for condors on a 26’ rock wall. Food, snacks, and local beers are available at the Zoo’s restaurants, and great souvenirs are found at the Zoo Gift Shop and Explore Store.