Zoos and aquariums

Santa Ana Zoo
1801 East Chestnut Ave.
Santa Ana, CA  92701
Office: (714) 835-7484
Website: http://www.SantaAnaZoo.org

The Santa Ana Zoo has a peculiar yet amusing history that dates back to the early 1900’s. Its beginnings can be attributed to J.E. Prentice and his fascination with monkeys… yes, I did write monkeys. As one of Santa Ana’s wealthiest citrus ranchers, Mr. Prentice generously donated 12 acres of land to the city of Santa Ana for a park. However, his fascination with monkeys lead to a stipulation that required Santa Ana to keep at least 50 monkeys within the city always.

Jack Lynch, an eager enthusiast of animals as well, went to City Hall to request the hefty task of designing and building cages for the animals. And the Santa Ana Zoo was born. Jack took care of the Zoo and its animals by himself in the early years but as it began to grow, the responsibilities became too much for one man to handle. Jack then suggested to the city they form a Zoological Society for support. Now called the Friends of Santa Ana Zoo (FOSAZ), they continue to privately fundraise to keep the Zoo alive.

By fostering love and respect of animals, the Santa Ana Zoo remains committed to excellence in education “while bringing the message of conservation to the Zoo's many visitors”. ~ Zoo Education

Visit the Santa Ana Zoo for a fun-filled day of fascination and charm! It’s right around the corner from your home.

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San Diego Zoo
1801 East Chestnut Ave.
Santa Ana, CA  92701
Office: (714) 835-7484
Website: http://www.SantaAnaZoo.org

The Zoological Society of San Diego represents the largest Zoological membership association worldwide. Its half million members enjoy free admission to the Zoo and Wild Animal Park, a subscription to ZOONOOZ and more. With 100 acres of land, 4000 rare and endangered animals, and an incredibly large collection of exotic plants, it’s no wonder the Zoological Society of San Diego continues to build its memberships every year.

From Monkey Trails and Forest Tales to Tiger River to Reptile Mesa, and more, you’ll have to come back a second day to get everything in!

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Aquarium of the Pacific
100 Aquarium Way
Long Beach, CA  90802
Office: (562) 590-3100
Website: http://www.aquariumofpacific.org

Meet and Greet the Society of the Sea!

As one of the largest aquariums in the United States, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach provides an exceptional experience to all to learn about aquatic life in the Pacific Ocean. Dedicated to “instill a sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its inhabitants, and ecosystems” the aquarium will take you on a journey through the deep waters of the Pacific Ocean, meeting more than 12,500 animals from Southern and Baja California, the North and Tropical Pacific.

Visit the Shark Lagoon for an interesting look into the lives of different sharks and even get the chance to touch some of these incredible animals! Some of their other current exhibits include:

WHALES: A Journey with Giants
Southern California/Baja Gallery
Northern Pacific
Sea Jellies
And more!

If you can’t seem to get enough in one visit, be sure to visit again or become a volunteer!