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The Sacramento Zoo, located within William Land Park, has operated as Northern California’s intimate animal sanctuary since its inception in 1927. This 14.3-acre accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) combines historic charm with modern animal care, housing over 500 animals from 120 different species in thoughtfully designed habitats.

Following a $75 million master plan renovation that began in 2022, the zoo is transforming into a cutting-edge conservation center while maintaining its beloved family-friendly atmosphere, which attracts 600,000 visitors each year.

Historical Timeline & Evolution

Early Beginnings (1920s-1950s)

1927: begins with 40 animals (monkeys, bears, and birds).
1937: acquires the first elephant (“Queen Tut”).
1940: Builds the famed WPA-era reptile house.

Modernization Era (1960s-2010s)

1965: Joins AZA accreditation program
1997: Opens Tropical Rainforest building
2014: Launches conservation breeding program

New Vision (2020s-Present)

2022: Commencement of the multi-phase “Zoo of the Future” reconstruction
2025: Anticipated inauguration of the new African Savanna exhibit
2028: Expected finalization of the canopy walk experience

Main Attractions at the Sacramento Zoo

Signature Exhibits & Animal Attractions

African Savanna (Opening 2025)

A 3-acre immersive habitat that includes:

Majestic kopje rock formations
A mixed-species enclosure housing:
Reticulated giraffes
Grevy’s zebras
Ostriches
A 360° viewing lodge offering underwater perspectives

Rainforest Passage

Climate-controlled biodome housing:

Sumatran tigers in a verdant jungle environment
Pygmy hippopotamus in a riverine habitat
Siamang gibbons on steep vertical ascents

Australian Outback

Encounter area for walkabouts featuring:

Red kangaroos (freely hopping in the yard)
Emus and kookaburras
Dingos inhabiting rocky escarpment environments

Historic Reptile House

Structure of the Works Progress Administration in the 1930s

Housing the following species:

King cobras
Gila monsters
Radiated tortoises
Komodo dragon (expected arrival in 2024)

Conservation & Breeding Programs

Species Survival Plan (SSP) Participants

Species	Conservation Status	Program Successes
Red panda	Endangered	6 cubs born since 2018
Snow leopard	Vulnerable	3 generations bred
Panamanian golden frog	Critically Endangered	200+ tadpoles released

Local Initiatives

River Otter Ecology Initiative (Sacramento watershed)
Western Pond Turtle head-start initiative
Pollinator garden for indigenous bees and butterflies

Visitor Experiences & Amenities

Animal Encounters

Experience	Duration	Price
Giraffe Feeding	15 mins	$8
Lemur Keeper Talk	20 mins	Free
Behind-the-Scenes Tour	60 mins	$50

Family-Friendly Features

Zoo Train (a narrated ride spanning 1 mile)
Wildlife Carousel (featuring 30 intricately hand-carved animals)
Adventure Play Area (a playground inspired by nature)

Dining Options

Venue	Specialty	Sustainability Feature
Savanna Grill	African-inspired bowls	Compostable packaging
Canopy Café	Kids’ meals	Local organic produce
Tusk & Trunk	Artisan ice cream	Solar-powered freezers

Educational Programs

School & Youth Initiatives

Zoo School (Field Trips for Grades K-5)
Teen Conservation Leader Program
Overnight Zoo Snoozes

Adult Learning

Zookeeper career workshops
Photography classes
Conservation lecture series

Visitor Information

Hours & Admission

Operating Hours: 9 AM to 4 PM (extended hours during summer)
Admission for Adults (ages 12-64): $21.95
Admission for Children (ages 2-11): $14.95
Parking: Complimentary onsite

Accessibility Features

Sensory-friendly maps
Wheelchair-accessible pathways
ASL-interpreted tours

Future Developments

2026: Expansion of the Primate Forest
2027: Celebration of the Centennial
2030: Installation of the planned solar canopy

Why the Sacramento Zoo Matters

The only AZA-accredited zoo located within a 90-mile radius.
Historic architecture combined with contemporary habitats.
Demonstrated conservation success for endangered species.
A close-knit visitor experience without the presence of large crowds.
An economical family excursion in an urban environment.

From the resonant calls of siamang gibbons at dawn to the joyful squeals of children feeding giraffes at twilight, the Sacramento Zoo provides a deeply personal connection to wildlife. This century-old establishment is continually evolving—not merely in size, but also in its dedication to species preservation and inspiring conservation efforts. Whether you visit for the red pandas, engage in the keeper talks, or come back for the innovative new exhibits, each visit contributes to their essential mission: securing a future where both animals and humans can flourish.

Cost: From $21
Phone: (916) 808-5888
Email: info@saczoo.org
Website: www.saczoo.org
Address: Sacramento Zoo, 3930 West Land Park Drive, Sacramento, CA 95822
Location Map: