Los Angeles Zoo

Los Angeles Zoo is a public animal park in Griffith Park that covers a wide area and houses more than 1,700 animals from numerous species in naturalistic habitats and themed exhibits. The grounds are divided into different sections organized by geographic regions and ecosystems, allowing visitors to walk through different climate zones and landscapes.

The current facility opened in 1966 as a replacement for the earlier zoo in Griffith Park and was built at a new location within the same park. During the 1990s, a comprehensive renovation program began that fundamentally modernized enclosures and facilities.

The zoo takes its name from the city where it stands, while pathways between enclosures pass through shaded areas planted with native California vegetation. Families with children use picnic areas scattered among the animal exhibits to pause during their visit and enjoy the surroundings.

Visitors should plan several hours for a full tour, as the grounds are hilly and distances between sections can be considerable. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are advisable on warm days, especially in open sections without natural shade.

Part of the grounds is dedicated to a breeding program for California condors that played a decisive role in saving the species from extinction. The number of birds has increased considerably since the 1980s, and some young birds are later released into the wild.

Location: California

Inception: 1966

Address: 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00-17:00

Phone: +13236444200

Website: http://lazoo.org

GPS coordinates: 34.14810,-118.28400

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:15