ZooCalifornia, US

Santa Ana Zoo

The Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park is a charming 20-acre wildlife sanctuary focusing on animals and plants from Central and South America, with a unique emphasis on its diverse primate collection.

Official website Open in Maps

About

The Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park is a charming 20-acre wildlife sanctuary focusing on animals and plants from Central and South America, with a unique emphasis on its diverse primate collection. Established with a specific stipulation to always house at least 50 monkeys, the zoo delivers an engaging blend of recreation, education, and conservation, providing an intimate connection with nature for visitors of all ages.

Explore a fascinating world through exhibits like "Tierra de las Pampas," home to impressive Giant Anteaters and Guanacos, and "River's Edge," where playful spider monkeys and Asian small-clawed otters can be observed. The "Colors of the Amazon Aviary" offers an immersive walk-through experience with vibrant South American birds like Scarlet Ibises, while the "Crean Family Farm" allows for up-close encounters with domestic animals such as Dexter cows and miniature donkeys. Don't miss the seasonal "Flight! Butterfly Experience" for a magical encounter with hundreds of butterflies.

Beyond animal viewing, the Santa Ana Zoo provides memorable experiences with attractions like the Zoofari Express train ride, the Conservation Carrousel featuring endangered species, and the 64-foot-tall "50 Monkeys Ferris Wheel" offering panoramic views. Its manageable size makes it ideal for families with young children, ensuring an enjoyable and educational outing without overwhelming visitors, while inspiring an appreciation for global biodiversity and conservation efforts. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.

The Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park opened its doors on March 8, 1952, on land generously donated by Joseph Edward Prentice. Prentice's donation came with a distinctive condition: the zoo must always maintain a collection of at least 50 monkeys, a legacy that continues to shape its extensive primate offerings today. Over the decades, the zoo has evolved from a recreational spot to a significant center for education and conservation, achieving accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and undergoing various expansions and improvements to its exhibits and facilities.

What to do here

Engage with educational programs and keeper talks, explore interactive play areas like the Rainforest Adventure Maze and Exploration Outpost, or simply enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds for picnicking and relaxation.

Seasonal info

Weather: Southern California's pleasant climate generally allows for year-round visits, but mornings are best to avoid afternoon heat, especially in summer.

Animal Activity: Animals tend to be more active in the cooler parts of the day.

Seasonal Events: The "Flight! Butterfly Experience" is open seasonally from approximately June 1 through October 15. The third Sunday of each month offers free admission for Santa Ana residents.

Accessibility

The Santa Ana Zoo is committed to accessibility, with paved, wheelchair-accessible pathways throughout the grounds. Service animals as defined by the ADA are permitted, though there are restrictions in certain animal contact areas like the Colors of the Amazon Aviary, Goat Interaction Yard, and the Flight! Butterfly Experience. Sensory bags, including noise-canceling headphones, are available at the ticket booth (with a refundable deposit).

Don't miss

Primate Collection

Explore a wide variety of monkeys, including Black Howler Monkeys, Spider Monkeys, Golden Lion Tamarins, and Black-and-white Ruffed Lemurs.

Tierra de las Pampas

Observe Giant Anteaters and Guanacos.

River's Edge

Discover Asian Small-Clawed Otters and newly arrived Spider Monkeys in an expansive habitat.

Colors of the Amazon Aviary

Walk through this vibrant habitat filled with South American birds like Scarlet Ibises and Blue-Crowned Pigeons.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Bee

Western Fence Lizard

Monarch Butterfly

American Crow

Cooper's Hawk

Mourning Dove

Snap map for this place

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

Loading map…

Good to know before you go

Arrive early

** Visit on weekday mornings, especially in cooler months, to experience more active animals and fewer crowds.

Plan your rides

The Zoofari Express train and 50 Monkeys Ferris Wheel often have specific operating hours (e.g., Friday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., weekends 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), so check the schedule upon arrival.

Bring snacks and water

While food is available, bringing your own can save money and cater to specific preferences.

Utilize accessibility features

If needed, inquire about sensory bags with noise-canceling headphones at the ticket booth.

Check for events

Look up the zoo's calendar for special events, educational talks, and free Santa Ana Resident Days.

Wear comfortable shoes

The zoo features paved pathways, but comfortable footwear will make exploring the 20-acre grounds more enjoyable.

Frequently asked questions

: The Santa Ana Zoo is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., though guests may remain in the zoo until 5:00 p.m. It is closed on Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and Thanksgiving Day. General admission is $14, children (ages 3-12) and seniors (60+) are $11. Children aged 2 and under are free. Santa Ana residents receive free admission on the third Sunday of every month with proof of residency.
: Absolutely! The Santa Ana Zoo is very family-friendly, offering popular attractions such as the Zoofari Express train ride, the Conservation Carrousel with endangered animal figures, and the 64-foot "50 Monkeys Ferris Wheel." Children can also enjoy the Crean Family Farm for close-up encounters with domestic animals, as well as the Rainforest Adventure Maze and Safari Playground.
: Yes, visitors are permitted to bring their own food and beverages, including ice chests (excluding glass containers and alcohol). This makes it a great option for picnics. The zoo also has dining options, such as Bean Sprouts Café, offering healthy choices and alcoholic beverages for adults.