Monterey Zoo Experience: Where Education Meets Conservation
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Experience unforgettable, up-close encounters with exotic wildlife at Monterey Zoo. Education, fun, and conservation for all ages!
Highlights
- Daily Admission to Monterey Zoo, open 7 days a week
- Interactive and educational tours with animal encounters
- "Very Important Animal Person" Tour with deli lunch and behind-the-scenes access
- Witness thrilling feeding sessions and learn about endangered species
What To Expect
Accredited by the Zoological Association of America in June 2020, Monterey Zoo stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of those who helped build it with limited resources. The Monterey Zoological Society is deeply committed to providing an entertaining, educational, and conservation-driven experience that promotes public awareness and fosters respect for wildlife.

Home to over 100 exotic animals, including everything from spiders to rhinos, Monterey Zoo offers an immersive experience where guests can explore diverse species in a safe and engaging environment. The zoo also runs year-round educational programs, reaching thousands of children and adults each year, ensuring that its mission of wildlife conservation is shared with the community.
Plan Your Visit
Opening Hours: Open 10 AM - 3 PM every day (Closed on Easter, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day).
Ticket Options
-
Adult Daily Admission: For ages 15+
-
Child Daily Admission: For ages 2-14
-
VIAP Tour (Very Important Animal Person): This 3-hour adventure allows guests to experience personal and hands-on encounters with four of our "Wild Things." The tour includes a catered deli-style lunch with the keepers and a behind-the-scenes look at the animals. This private group tour is reservation-only and offers an educational experience with opportunities for photos and videos. The animals showcased vary depending on season, weather, and trainer availability. Valid up to 2 people; ages 4+.
-
Children under 2 years enjoy free daily admission.
Experience unforgettable, up-close encounters with exotic wildlife at Monterey Zoo. Education, fun, and conservation for all ages!
Highlights
- Daily Admission to Monterey Zoo, open 7 days a week
- Interactive and educational tours with animal encounters
- "Very Important Animal Person" Tour with deli lunch and behind-the-scenes access
- Witness thrilling feeding sessions and learn about endangered species
What To Expect
Accredited by the Zoological Association of America in June 2020, Monterey Zoo stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of those who helped build it with limited resources. The Monterey Zoological Society is deeply committed to providing an entertaining, educational, and conservation-driven experience that promotes public awareness and fosters respect for wildlife.

Home to over 100 exotic animals, including everything from spiders to rhinos, Monterey Zoo offers an immersive experience where guests can explore diverse species in a safe and engaging environment. The zoo also runs year-round educational programs, reaching thousands of children and adults each year, ensuring that its mission of wildlife conservation is shared with the community.
Plan Your Visit
Opening Hours: Open 10 AM - 3 PM every day (Closed on Easter, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day).
Ticket Options
-
Adult Daily Admission: For ages 15+
-
Child Daily Admission: For ages 2-14
-
VIAP Tour (Very Important Animal Person): This 3-hour adventure allows guests to experience personal and hands-on encounters with four of our "Wild Things." The tour includes a catered deli-style lunch with the keepers and a behind-the-scenes look at the animals. This private group tour is reservation-only and offers an educational experience with opportunities for photos and videos. The animals showcased vary depending on season, weather, and trainer availability. Valid up to 2 people; ages 4+.
-
Children under 2 years enjoy free daily admission.
Need To Know Info
- Children must be at least 4 years old for VIAP Tour.
- Each person attending the tour needs a paid ticket.
- No cancellations past 7 days before your visit.
- No pets allowed.
- Tickets are non-transferable and non-exchangeable.
- Tours continue rain or shine.
- Admission to the zoo is not included with the purchase of a combo tour.
- For daily admission: under age 2 enter free – $8 stroller fee.