ZooCalifornia, US

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo offers a delightful blend of animal encounters and family-friendly amusement.

About

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo offers a delightful blend of animal encounters and family-friendly amusement. This 16-acre destination in San Jose, California, uniquely combines an accredited zoo with an amusement park, providing engaging experiences for visitors of all ages. As a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), Happy Hollow is committed to high standards of animal care, education, and entertainment, with a strong emphasis on conservation and sustainability.

The park is home to a diverse array of animals, including a majestic male Jaguar named Kianto, playful Ring-tailed, Black and White Ruffed, and Red Ruffed Lemurs, and curious Meerkats. Other notable residents include Red Pandas, Giant Anteaters (Xander and Xena), and the fascinating Fossa from Madagascar. Beyond the animal exhibits, guests can enjoy a variety of gentle amusement rides like the iconic Danny the Dragon train, the charming Keep-Around Carousel featuring endangered species, and the family-friendly Pacific Fruit Express roller coaster. Imaginative play areas like Redwood Lookout and the whimsical Crooked House offer additional fun for children.

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo provides an enriching and memorable day out, where education meets entertainment. Visitors can learn about wildlife conservation through engaging exhibits and daily animal meet-and-greets, connecting with nature in an interactive environment. Its unique blend of zoo and amusement park attractions, coupled with a focus on family fun and educational programming, makes it a cherished community asset that inspires a love for the natural world. Eager to name that creature? Identify any animal you find during your visit using the Snappit app.

The genesis of Happy Hollow Park & Zoo dates back to 1956 when Jaycees members Alden Campen and Ernie Renzel began planning a children's park for San Jose, inspired by similar concepts elsewhere. The city acquired the initial 7.5 acres of land within what is now Kelley Park, and Happy Hollow officially opened its gates on March 27, 1961, offering attractions like puppet shows and gentle rides. In 1977, the adjacent San Jose Zoo merged with Happy Hollow, leading to its renaming as Happy Hollow Park & Zoo and expanding its animal offerings. The park has undergone several significant improvements over the decades. In the 1980s, animal enclosures were modernized, and an education program was introduced. A major $52 million renovation project in 2008 led to its reopening on March 20, 2010, transforming it into the modern facility seen today, with enhanced exhibits, rides, and educational facilities.

What to do here

Explore the diverse animal exhibits, enjoy unlimited rides with admission, catch a puppet show, visit the petting zoo, let kids burn energy in the play areas, and attend zookeeper talks or animal meet-and-greets.

Seasonal info

San Jose can experience warm temperatures, so planning for sun protection is advisable. Hours vary by season, so check the official website before your visit. Special events and programming occur throughout the year.

Accessibility

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is ADA compliant, offering wheelchair accessibility throughout. Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent on a first-come, first-serve basis. Service animals are welcome but must remain on a leash/harness and maintain a six-foot distance from zoo animals.

Don't miss

Jaguar Exhibit

Observe the magnificent male jaguar, Kianto, in his habitat.

Lemur Exhibits

See various species, including Black and White Ruffed, Red Ruffed, and Ring-tailed Lemurs, with a unique "Parallel Play Area" near the lemurs where children can play alongside them.

Red Panda Habitat

Spot these elusive and adorable creatures.

Giant Anteaters

Witness Xander and Xena, the Giant Anteaters, known for their two-foot-long tongues.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

House Sparrow

Bee

Eastern Gray Squirrel

American Robin

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Arrive early

** Aim to arrive around opening time (typically 10 AM) to experience fewer crowds, more active animals, and shorter lines for rides.

Wear comfortable shoes

There is a good amount of walking involved, often on outdoor surfaces like cement, grass, and dirt.

Pack sun protection

Bring sunscreen and hats, especially since many areas are outdoors, and San Jose can get hot.

Check the website beforehand

Verify current operating hours, special event schedules, and any policy updates before your visit.

Utilize reciprocal memberships

If you have a membership to another AZA-accredited zoo or aquarium, check if Happy Hollow offers reciprocal admission discounts, which must be redeemed in person.

Bring your own snacks/lunch

While food is available for purchase, bringing your own snacks or "brown-bag" picnic can be cost-effective and convenient.

Frequently asked questions

: Yes, individual "brown-bag" picnics and snacks are allowed inside Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, and seating is available. However, coolers and commercially prepared foods from outside restaurants are prohibited.
: Reservations are no longer required for entry, but they are highly recommended for quicker park entry. Discounted tickets for reciprocal members, military personnel, and seniors must be purchased in person with valid identification.
: Yes, Happy Hollow Park & Zoo offers stroller and wheelchair rentals on a first-come, first-serve basis. These can be obtained at the Explore & More store, located inside the main entrance.