Santa Ana Zoo @ Prentice Park

Tucked away in an little corner of Santa Ana, lies a zoo that is perfect for an afternoon of fun without the commitment of an entire day or more. This is not the type of zoo where you will find Zebras or Hippos or where you will spend all day walking the grounds only to be exhausted at the end of the day, still finding that you need more time to see the entire zoo. Don't get me wrong, I do love those outings at times but The Santa Ana Zoo is such a great place because you can really see everything in a few hours time. The price is right at $8 for adults and $5 for kids and Seniors.

Their monkey exhibits are the best around. In fact just last month they have welcomed a rare crested capuchin monkey into the world. The birth of this endangered monkey is part of an important breeding program.

After you make your way around the zoo, you can't miss the Crean Family Farm. You can pet and feed the animals as you get an inside view of life on an Orange County Farm. This one is so much fun for those kids like mine who love hands on fun!

After visiting the Crean Family Farm, make your way over to the Zoofari Express. You will love the 6 minute ride. This is an environmental friendly electric train which also cuts down on the noise for the benefit of the animals. The train features six cars and a caboose. They offer a very entertaining tour of the zoo pointing out exhibits and species as you meander through the park. This is great for little ones as well and they offer Free rides to those 2 years and under.
For those of us over this age, the train is a whopping $3 a person. What a deal!


Last but definitely not least, you can't leave until you have seen and taken a whirl on The Conservation Carousel. This unique carousel features 33 endangered animals to ride on including a wheelchair accessible Swan Chariot. Each of its riders receives a special information card on one endangered animal explaining why it is endangered. This is such a great way to teach our kids what we can do to help these endangered animals. This definitely tops the afternoon of fun right off.

Along with the normal exhibits and attractions, The Santa Ana Zoo is host to very special events and kid's camps for the summer. The Sunset at The Zoo Summer Concert Series kicks off on June, 13th 5:30-7:30pm. Be sure to check out their website for all the info on these fun events!

For more information on FREE and Low Cost activities in Orange County visit http://www.ocfunguide.com/ . Be sure to sign up for our monthly calendar feature FREE and Low Cost events and activities in Orange County. Don't miss another event and hear about it after.

Happy Trecking!

OC Fun Guide received no compensation for this post.

All photos courtesy of Santa Ana Zoo