I finally started my journey to travel to every single zoo. First on the list was not planned but an opportunity presented itself and i took it! My first zoo trip was to the Los Angeles zoo! Let me first start off by saying the presentation of this zoo was great.(I expected it...it's LA!!) I got excited as I kept getting closer to the entrance. (peep the pic below)
I went on an early Saturday morning, which I felt was going to be a packed day but luckily, it wasn't. That day was a "zoo-wide" enrichment to where the animals received goodies such as popsicles, icesicles, and snow in their exhibit. Most of the animals could care less of what the substance was but a few seemed to enjoy the treat (was it rice?!). The tiger, had a snow man in his exhibit with vegetables for facial features. I truly enjoyed seeing the tiger question this structure in his space while he attempted to swat at the snowman's head. With ease, he succeeded.
One of the most intriguing creatures to me happens to be the silverback gorilla. I urge you to visit a zoological facility to see these beautiful animals up close. Their intellect is evident when you look into their eyes. I wanted to observe them for hours but I had to move on. I definitely needed to get the full zoo experience.
I must say that the Los Angeles zoo was beautiful. The scenery and landscaping was the perfect place for a fall morning. Mountains as a background added to the moment. However, the layout was pretty hard for me to navigate through. I got turned around a couple of times but eventually decided to "chunk" the map and just walk around. I'm excited to see the new exhibits they are building, as they continue to add on to this exceptional facility. I plan on re-visiting when their bug/reptile exhibit is complete (bugs lauren?!?...yea i know..crazy right?). I commend the Los Angeles zoo on their care-giving efforts to the animals in their "health/hospital" ward, the Winnick Family Animal Care Center. They have their own section where visitors can get a glimpse of behind the scenes of how they care for their sick or young animals. It reminded me of a pediatric ward where you can look at the newborn babies through the window, it was similar to that. Also, when you do go, most zoos have volunteer chats where they'll bring out a handling animal, for example a hedgehog or snake, so you can get some up close and personal action. When is the next time you are going to say you touched a chinchilla or alligator?
Overall, the Los Angeles zoo was the perfect way to start my journey. I highly encourage you to visit as they have something for everyone!(great souvenirs!!) I've added a link below to the main website. If you have any additional questions regarding my visit to the Los Angeles zoo, feel free to leave a comment and I'll definitely get back to you. Until next time...Happy traveling!
Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Address: 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Time: Monday - Sunday 10am -5pm
Price: Adult 13+ $16
Child 2-12 $11
Parking: FREE!!
Fun: Priceless!
DON'T FORGET!!!!
Be sure to get a schedule and flier upon entrance to time your tour around the hilly park. You don't want to miss keeper talks (zookeepers interact with the animals, i.e. enrichment, feeding, checkups). Lastly, visit the Children's Zoo area, you'll have a great chance of touching an animal you wouldn't normally...(ooohhh scary!)
