Kid-Favorite Petting Farms & Zoos Near LA & OC

Kelly R:  We love the Safari Park! The focus on conservation and large, natural habitats means there is a LOT of walking, so be prepared for that. We generally avoid coming during the summer months because it is located inland and gets very hot. Don't miss the guided open-air tram ride through the large African savannah (included in the price of admission), and plan to hit that early because the line gets long.

Kelly R:  I think this is the best zoo in the US. One of the things that strikes me about it is how beautiful all of the surroundings and plant life are, even as you're just walking around between exhibits. There is definitely a lot of uphill walking that can tire us out pretty quickly, but the benefit of that is many of the exhibits can be viewed from different high and low vantage points. The new children's area is pretty amazing and has so much to do (including water features, so plan for that if your kids can't resist getting wet).

Llamas, sheep, guinea pigs, bunnies, goats, & cows...Zoomars Petting Zoo has them all! For a small petting zoo, Zoomars packs a lot of punch! In addition to up-close animal encounters, kids love the mini train, pony rides, mining for 'gold', and the outdoor playground.

For an experience that's hands-on and educational, head to the OC Zoo! With a focus on animals native to the southwestern United States, you'll find everything from black bears, mountain lions, porcupines, and ocelots to bald eagles, red tailed hawks, coyotes, and more. Visit the barnyard to get up close to pot bellied pigs, goats, sheep, and other domestic farm animals.

Alexandra F.:  We are at this zoo almost every week, and I can’t speak highly enough about it! It is the perfect place for curious toddlers and preschoolers, as the zoo is small enough that you can walk around to all or most of the exhibits without little legs getting too tired. Plus, there are so many cool animals to see even with the smaller size (the sloth, giant anteater, bald eagle, monkeys and camels are a few favorites!), and even opportunities to pet the goats and other small animals from time to time. We always make a stop at the playground, too, so it’s a fun and full couple of hours. It’s my favorite outing with my two active little guys!

Experience farm life right at the OC Fair & Event Center! This three-acre working farm is home to chickens, pigs, oxen, and other livestock. Animal educators are on hand to share their knowledge and answer questions.

This pet store turned entertainment venue features interactive displays and more than 100 exotic species, giving kids hands on experiences with reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids from around the world.

The Aquarium of the Pacific celebrates life in the Pacific Ocean. Exhibits include everything from jellies and frogs to Shark Lagoon, featuring several species and sizes of sharks - some of which you can even touch! The sea otter and penguin habitats are sure to be kid-favorites, and you can also book special Animal Encounters for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Located in Griffith Park, the LA Zoo is owned and operated by the City of Los Angeles and features more than 270 different species of mammals, birds, amphibians, fish, and reptiles.

STAR Eco Station is a exotic wildlife rescue center for illegally-trafficked exotic animals. The sanctuary features a tropical jungle setting that is home to birds, reptiles, mammals and ocean life, and operates with the mission of "Preservation through Education." Animal encounters are available on Saturdays and Sundays only through guided public tours that start every hour on the hour. Tours last 45-60 minutes and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Jenny:   Wildlife Learning Center (WLC) is a zoological park nestled in an old olive grove in Sylmar, California, with animals from around the world. Provides life-long care to more than 100 displaced, rescued, and zoo-born wild animals from about 50 different species.

This kid-friendly aquarium is home to over 100 local marine species on exhibit. Kids most enjoy the touch tanks and the many fun and educational, hands-on activities and programs.