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Santa Barbara Zoo Tickets

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About Santa Barbara Zoo

Welcome to the Santa Barbara Zoo, a 30-acre private nonprofit AZA-accredited destination at 500 Niños Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93103. Open daily 9:30 AM–5:00 PM with last entry varying by event, the Zoo offers engaging exhibits, a versatile event space, and convenient access to dining and lodging. Whether you're planning a family outing, a wedding, or a private daytime event, we’ve got you covered with practical tips on tickets, parking, transit, and nearby stays.

Secure your seats and experiences with confidence—we’ve got you with straightforward, reliable guidance to help you plan a great day at the Zoo and beyond.

Seating and layout: The Zoo Map outlines visitor flow, viewing areas, and the Discovery Pavilion, a nearly 9,000 sq ft venue ideal for daytime gatherings or private events. General admission includes access to animal exhibits and attractions; separate events may have different entry requirements. Parking is the best available price per vehicle, with limited overflow parking due to field renovations. For those driving from afar, the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort offers a nearby offsite parking option, about half a mile away, making visits smoother. Transit options include the MTD shuttle, while Amtrak is roughly a 35-minute walk from the Zoo for those arriving by rail. Nearby hotels and dining spots provide convenient stays and meals after your visit, with affiliate partners highlighted for easy booking.

Note on events: ZooLights during the holidays brings festive lighting and seasonal activities, while Snow Leopard Festival and sledding events offer unique experiences. Private daytime events and weddings can host 10–300 guests, with the Zoo providing versatile spaces and coordination support. For anyone planning a visit, the Zoo’s schedule and last-entry times may vary by event, so check the calendar before you go.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

  • Address: 500 Niños Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93103.
  • Land area: 30 acres.
  • Venue type: private nonprofit AZA-accredited zoo.
  • Hours: open daily 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM; last entry times may vary by event.
  • Admission (general daytime): adults $39.95, children 2–12 $29.95, under 2 free.
  • Parking: $11 per vehicle; overflow parking limited due to Dwight Murphy Field renovation; Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort offers a nearby offsite option.
  • Transit: MTD shuttle available; Amtrak station is roughly a 35-minute walk to the Zoo.
  • Nearby hotels: Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort (~0.5 miles).
  • Seating/chart: Zoo Map available for layout; Discovery Pavilion is a nearly 9,000 sq ft event space.
  • Notable events: ZooLights (holiday lights), Snow Leopard Festival/Sledding at the Zoo; private daytime events (10–300 people) and weddings.