Los Angeles Zoo3512

The Los Angeles Zoo doesn't compare to its neighbor to the south in San Diego, but it's an excellent option for animal lovers, sitting on over a hundred acres of hilly, wooded land in Griffith Park.

The Winnick Family Children's Zoo includes Muriel's Ranch, an animal contact area that's staffed with zookeepers and safety zones, where children and animals can safely mingle. You'll also find Kids' Korner Restaurant, Adventure Theatre (where kids don costumes and help act out stories about animals), and a new animal nursery exhibit - the Winnick Family Animal Care Center.

It's a bit of a walk to the Main Zoo, but you can stop along the way to watch the meerkats, the amazing, although somewhat smelly, flamingos, or take a pit stop at one of the many refreshment and souvenir kiosks.

Kids tend to have a special affinity for the snake house, the habitat for orangutans, and the state-of-the-art chimpanzee exhibit. The koalas are housed in a darkened building, which is fun for older kids but can be scary for little ones.

Guided tours are available for groups and families who make advance reservations. Request a variety of tours by calling 323.644.4700.

Picnic areas and a variety of restaurants are scattered throughout; most of the restaurants have special children's meals, with hot dogs or chicken, a drink and a small plastic toy.

At the farthest end from the entrance is a popular playground with climbing equipment and slides. There is an adjacent picnic area, restrooms, and plenty of adult seating. However it's not fenced in, and the equipment is not safe for toddlers unless carefully supervised.

Distances can be very long for shorter legs; the Zoo runs a regular shuttle (Adults $4; Children $2 for unlimited use during the course of one visit). And strollers are available for rental just inside the entrance (singles are $7/day; doubles $11/day).

Bathrooms with changing stations are easily found. The first aid station is by the front gate.

Programs and classes at the LA Zoo invariably require pre-registration, and are less expensive for members. For information and/or reservations call 323.644.4211.

Zoo Camp is a fun summer activity for fans of the zoo, ages four to 12. Full or half-day programs are available on a weekly basis, and fill quickly.

A must-do at the zoo is a sleep-over at one of the famous Sundown Safaris! You can fall asleep to the roaring of lions and wake up to the singing of siamangs. The Zoo provides dinner, breakfast, and a special after-hours tour. You can bring your own tent or rent one. Sundown Safari begins at 5pm as the Zoo closes, and ends at 9am the next day. Call 323.644.4253 for information.

Plan a birthday party among the animals; the Zoo has a variety of birthday plans available at varying costs. Call 323.644.6047 for information.

Membership offers many benefits, and, if you plan to visit more than once a year, is worth the investment. Prices are $45 for Individual; $65 for Family.