Animal museums in California

San Diego Zoo Safari Park, previously known as San Diego Wild Animal Park until 2010, is a sprawling 730-hectare zoo located in the San Pasqual Valley area of San Diego, California, in close proximity to Escondido. This vast expanse of land is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a popular destination for tourists and animal enthusiasts alike.

The Aquarium of the Pacific, previously known as the Pacific Aquarium of Long Beach, is a public aquarium that spans 5 acres in Rainbow Harbor, Long Beach, California. This location is a significant attraction in the United States, offering a wide range of marine life exhibits and educational programs.

The San Diego Zoo, nestled in Balboa Park, San Diego, California, is home to a diverse range of wildlife. It boasts a collection of 4,000 animals from 800 different species, all residing in a 40-hectare wooded area. This vast space allows for a unique and immersive experience for visitors, offering a glimpse into the natural habitats of these animals.

The La Brea Tar Pits is an area in the American city of Los Angeles where asphalt seeps from the ground to the surface. This unique geological phenomenon has led to the area being designated as a park. The tar pits are a fascinating sight to behold, with the asphalt appearing to bubble up from the ground.

The San Francisco Zoo, nestled in the southwest corner of San Francisco, California, is a sprawling 100-acre park that is home to over 260 different species of animals. The zoo is conveniently located between Lake Merced and the Pacific Ocean, making it a scenic destination for visitors. It is easily accessible via the Great Highway, which runs along the western side of the zoo.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, located in Los Angeles, California, is the largest natural history museum in the western United States. Its extensive collections include nearly 35 million specimens and artifacts that span 4.5 billion years of history. This vast collection provides a comprehensive view of the natural world and human history, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in natural history and culture.

Aquarium of the Bay is a public aquarium situated on The Embarcadero in San Francisco, California. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique opportunity to explore the aquatic life that inhabits the San Francisco Bay and surrounding waters.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium (MBA) in Monterey, California, is recognized as one of the largest public aquariums globally. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a diverse range of marine life in a single location. The aquarium's size and variety of exhibits make it a significant attraction for tourists visiting Monterey.

The California Academy of Sciences, located in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California, is a unique blend of a science academy and a natural history museum. It features a planetarium, an artificial rainforest, and a large aquatic area. This combination of features offers visitors a diverse and comprehensive experience, allowing them to explore various aspects of natural history and science in one place.

The Giant Forest Museum is a natural history museum situated in Tulare County, California. It is nestled within the Giant Forest of Sequoia National Park and is operated by the National Park Service. This museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about the natural history of the area and the diverse wildlife that inhabits it.

The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, founded in 1966, is a 133-acre park located in the city of Los Angeles, Southern California. The city of Los Angeles owns the entire zoo, its land, facilities, and animals. It offers a unique combination of a zoo and botanical gardens, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore a diverse range of animal species and plant life in one location.

The Point Reyes Lighthouse, also known as Point Reyes Light or the Point Reyes Light Station, is a significant landmark located in the Gulf of the Farallones on Point Reyes in Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, California, United States. This lighthouse is a key feature of the area and offers visitors a unique insight into the region's maritime history.

The San Diego Natural History Museum, originally known as the San Diego Natural History Society, was established in 1874. This makes it one of the oldest scientific institutions in Southern California and the third oldest west of the Mississippi. The museum's rich history and longstanding commitment to scientific culture in the region make it a significant landmark for visitors interested in natural history.

Joshua Tree National Park is situated in the southern part of California, United States. It is positioned to the east of the region between Los Angeles and San Diego, and north of Palm Springs. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting these popular cities.

Heal the Bay Aquarium, which was previously known as the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, is a unique private-public aquarium. It is situated beneath the Santa Monica Pier, right next to the Pacific Ocean. This location not only provides a stunning backdrop for the aquarium but also allows for a direct connection to the marine life it houses.

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, located in Santa Barbara, California, is a hub for nature enthusiasts. Each year, it reconnects more than 150,000 people to nature, both indoors and outdoors. The museum is a great place for tourists who are interested in natural history and want to learn more about the natural world.

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, previously known as the Living Desert Museum, is a non-profit organization that operates a zoo and a desert botanical garden. It is located in Palm Desert, Riverside County, California, United States. This unique combination of a zoo and botanical garden is dedicated to the deserts of the world, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about desert ecosystems and their inhabitants.

SeaWorld San Diego is a renowned American amusement park situated in California. It is owned and operated by the SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment group. The park was established in 1964 by four graduates from the University of California. Initially, the idea was to construct an underwater restaurant, but due to technical difficulties, the concept evolved into a public aquarium and zoo.

The Birch Aquarium is a public aquarium located in San Diego, California. It is home to more than 3000 animals, representing 380 different species. This diverse collection of marine life provides visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about and appreciate the biodiversity of our oceans.

Point Reyes National Seashore is a vast nature reserve spanning 287.44 km², located on the Point Reyes peninsula in the western part of Marin County, California. The area was designated as a National Seashore in 1962, which placed it under the protection of the National Park Service. This designation allows for traditional ranch farming and oyster farming, which would not be permitted if it were classified as a National Park.

The Oakland Museum of California is a highly regarded institution in the San Francisco Bay Area, offering visitors the opportunity to explore art, history, and natural sciences. Located between Lake Merritt and downtown Oakland, the museum houses over 1.9 million objects, including fundamental works of art, historical and ethnographic objects, natural specimens, and photographs.

Sea Life is a renowned chain of aquatic interest centers that are spread across various continents including Europe, Asia, the United States, and Oceania. These centers are owned and managed by Merlin Entertainments, a leading name in the world of entertainment and leisure activities. Visitors to these centers can expect a unique and engaging experience, with a wide range of aquatic life on display.

The Sacramento Zoo, nestled in the heart of William Land Park in Sacramento, California, has been a staple of the community since its opening on June 2, 1927. Starting with a modest collection of 40 animals, the zoo has grown and evolved over the years, becoming a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

The Big Bear Alpine Zoo, located in Big Bear Lake, California, is one of only two Alpine zoos in the United States. This unique zoo specializes in the rehabilitation and release of local Alpine species, providing a safe haven for injured, orphaned, and imprinted wild animals. It's a place where wildlife gets a second chance, with 90% of all animals brought to the zoo for rehabilitation successfully released back into their native environment.

The Discovery Cube Orange County, located in Santa Ana, California, is a science museum that was previously known as the Discovery Science Center and the Taco Bell Discovery Science Center. The museum is home to over 100 hands-on science exhibits that are designed to ignite the natural curiosity of children. These interactive exhibits provide an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Turtle Bay Exploration Park, situated in Redding, California, is a unique blend of museums and natural spaces that aim to interpret the relationship between humans and nature. This complex offers a variety of attractions including a botanical garden, arboretum, natural history and science museums, and educational programs on history and science. It is located next to the Sacramento River, providing a beautiful backdrop for exploration and learning.

Turtle Bay Exploration Park, situated in Redding, California, is a unique blend of museums and natural spaces that aim to interpret and showcase the intricate relationships between humans and nature. The park offers a diverse range of attractions, from botanical gardens and arboretums to natural history and science museums, providing a comprehensive and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary, located in Folsom, California, has been welcoming visitors since 1963. Unlike traditional zoos, this facility operates more like a sanctuary, focusing on the care and rehabilitation of animals rather than breeding or trading them. This unique approach to animal care makes the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary a distinctive destination for animal lovers and those interested in wildlife conservation.

The Fresno Chaffee Zoo is a popular destination located in the heart of Roeding Park on Belmont Avenue, east of SR 99, in Fresno, California. The zoo spans an area of 7.3 hectares and is visited by over half a million people each year. It offers a wide variety of animals and exhibits, making it a great place for family outings and educational trips.

The University of California Museum of Paleontology (UCMP) is a unique destination for those interested in the history of life on Earth. Located on the campus of the University of California in the Valley Life Sciences Building, the museum offers a glimpse into the world of paleontology and the rich fossil record that it studies.

The Museum of Vertebrate Zoology (MVZ) is a zoological museum that is situated on the campus of the University of California. It is housed in the Valley Life Sciences Building. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are interested in exploring the diverse collection of vertebrates that the museum has to offer.

The Western Science Center, previously known as the Western Center for Archaeology & Paleontology, is a museum situated near Diamond Valley Lake in Hemet, California. This location is ideal for tourists who are interested in archaeology, paleontology, and the natural history of the region.

The Charles Paddock Zoo is a quaint community zoo situated in the city of Atascadero, California, within San Luis Obispo County. Despite its small size of just 5 acres, it offers a unique experience for visitors, being the only zoo in the Central Coast area of California.

The Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science is a prominent natural history museum situated in the heart of Bakersfield, California. It is conveniently located in the downtown Arts district, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.

Safari West is a private wildlife preserve that spans 400 acres. It is situated 12 miles north of the city of Santa Rosa in Sonoma County, California. The preserve is owned and operated by Nancy and Peter Lang. This location offers a unique opportunity to experience wildlife in a preserved environment.

The University of California, Riverside, Botanic Gardens is a sprawling 40-acre botanical garden that is home to a diverse collection of over 3,500 species of plants from all corners of the globe. This vast collection provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about a wide variety of plant species in one location.

Cabazon Dinosaurs, previously known as Claude Bell's Dinosaurs, is a roadside attraction located in Cabazon, California. The main attractions of this site are two large, steel-and-concrete dinosaurs named Dinny the Dinosaur and Mr. Rex. These impressive structures are visible from the freeway, making them a notable landmark for travelers passing by on Southern California's Interstate 10.

The Discovery Cube Orange County, previously known as the Discovery Science Center and the Taco Bell Discovery Science Center, is a science museum located in Santa Ana, California. The museum is home to over 100 interactive science exhibits that are designed to ignite the natural curiosity of children. These exhibits provide a hands-on learning experience, making science fun and engaging for all ages.

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, previously known as the Ty Warner Sea Center, is a museum situated on Santa Barbara's Stearns Wharf. The museum's primary focus is on the marine life and the conservation of the Santa Barbara Channel. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the diverse marine ecosystem and the ongoing efforts to preserve it.

Trees of Mystery is a unique park and tourist attraction located along U.S. Route 101, close to the coastal town of Klamath in California. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area, with its Giant Redwoods and unusual tree formations. It's an ideal destination for those who appreciate nature and are interested in learning more about the local flora.

The Big Bear Discovery Center is a regional visitor and nature center situated in the scenic Big Bear Valley of the San Bernardino Mountains. It is nestled within the San Bernardino National Forest, in San Bernardino County, southern California. This location offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of the region.

The Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History, located in Morro Bay State Park, Morro Bay, California, United States, has been welcoming visitors since its opening in 1962. This museum is a part of the California State Park system and is the only natural history museum within it. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural history of the region.

The Living Coast Discovery Center, located in the Sweetwater Marsh Unit of the San Diego National Wildlife Refuge in Chula Vista, California, is an environmental education center. It features exhibits of marine animals, other animals, and birds. This center provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about and interact with various species in a controlled environment.

CuriOdyssey is a unique combination of a science museum and a zoo, offering visitors the opportunity to explore interactive science exhibits and observe a variety of animals. The museum is home to nearly 100 rescued animals, most of which are native to California and unable to survive in the wild. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about these animals and their habitats in a safe and educational environment.

The Orange County Zoo, nestled within the expansive 477-acre Irvine Regional Park in Orange, California, spans a modest 8 acres. Despite its size, the zoo offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife native to the Southwestern United States, all within the heart of a bustling city.

Oakland Zoo is home to over 440 native and exotic animal species. The zoo has always prioritized naturalistic animal care, aiming to provide the most authentic and comfortable habitats for its residents. This approach not only benefits the animals but also offers visitors a more realistic and educational experience.

The Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park is a 20-acre zoo located in Santa Ana, California. The zoo primarily focuses on the animals and plants of Central and South America, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about and experience the diverse wildlife of these regions.

The Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose is dedicated to early childhood education, building and displaying interactive exhibits that cater to this focus. The museum's exhibits, programs, and initiatives have received local, regional, and national attention. Some of its exhibits include life-size replicas of Columbian mammoths, explorable vehicles like a fire engine and a Wells Fargo stagecoach, and five visual and performing arts spaces.

A small, interactive aquarium where your children will admire manta rays, starfish and sharks, and learn about their habitats.

The Lindsay Wildlife Experience, previously known as the Lindsay Wildlife Museum, is a unique combination of a family-friendly museum and a wildlife rehabilitation center located in Walnut Creek, California. This establishment is not only a place of learning and exploration but also a sanctuary for injured, sick, or orphaned wild animals. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with wildlife and understand the importance of co-existing with nature.

The Lindsay Wildlife Experience, previously known as the Lindsay Wildlife Museum, is a family-friendly museum and wildlife rehabilitation center located in Walnut Creek, California. It is a unique destination that combines education, conservation, and rehabilitation efforts under one roof. Visitors can explore various exhibits, learn about California's native wildlife, and even get a behind-the-scenes look at the wildlife hospital.

The Cal Poly Humboldt Natural History Museum is a prominent natural history museum located in Arcata, California, United States. It offers a wide range of exhibits and collections that cater to the interests of various visitors, making it a significant destination for those interested in natural history.

The California Academy of Sciences, located in San Francisco, California, is a research institute and natural history museum. It is among the largest museums of natural history in the world, housing over 46 million specimens. This makes it a significant destination for those interested in natural history and scientific research.

The Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science is a renowned natural history museum situated in the heart of Bakersfield, California. Its location in the vibrant Arts district makes it easily accessible and a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, located in San Jose, California, is a compact 16-acre zoo and amusement park. The park, which first opened its doors to the public in 1961, offers a unique blend of animal exhibits and amusement rides. Despite its small size, the park is packed with a variety of attractions that cater to both children and adults.

Fresno Discovery Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit family science center open to the public in Fresno, California since 1954. Our property has 5.5 acres of outdoor exhibits, play structures, gardens, and animals to visit in a park setting. Our indoor Science Center provides science exploration through e

The Essig Museum of Entomology, located at the University of California at Berkeley, is a research museum dedicated to terrestrial arthropods. It is a unique place where visitors can explore the fascinating world of insects and other arthropods.

The Raymond M Alf Museum of Paleontology, located in Claremont, California, is a unique institution as it is the only nationally accredited museum situated on a secondary school campus in the United States. This museum is part of The Webb Schools, a renowned educational institution. Visitors to the museum can expect to explore a wide range of paleontological exhibits, all within the unique setting of a school campus.

The California Living Museum, also known as CALM, is a zoo located in Bakersfield, California. The museum's primary focus is on the plants and animals that are native to California, with a particular emphasis on those found in Kern County. This unique focus allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem and the diverse species that inhabit it.

The Bunny Museum, opened to the public in 1998, is a unique institution dedicated to all things rabbit. It is located in a mid-century building in Altadena, California, US. This museum offers a unique experience for visitors interested in rabbits and their representation in various forms of art and memorabilia.

The Manhattan Beach Pier is a significant landmark located in Manhattan Beach, California. It stretches 928 feet (283 m) into the Pacific Ocean and is situated at the end of Manhattan Beach Boulevard. This pier is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding area.

The Randall Museum, located in central San Francisco, California, is a unique institution owned and operated by the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department, with the support of the Randall Friends. This museum offers a diverse range of exhibits and activities, making it an interesting destination for tourists of all ages.

The Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo is situated in the city of Palo Alto, California. It is a part of the City of Palo Alto's Community Services Department (CSD). This location offers a unique blend of educational and recreational activities for visitors of all ages.

The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History is situated in Pacific Grove, California, United States, in close proximity to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. This museum is dedicated to the natural history of the region, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the local flora, fauna, geology, and cultural histories.

The Maturango Museum, situated in Ridgecrest, California, is renowned for its guided tours of the Coso Rock Art District, which is located on the China Lake Naval Weapons Station. These tours provide a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the rich history and cultural significance of the area.

Mendocino Headlands State Park, located in Mendocino, California, is a vast expanse of 347 acres of untouched seaside bluffs and islets. The park, which surrounds the town of Mendocino, features two beaches - Big River Beach and Portuguese Beach. Additionally, the park includes the Big River Unit, a larger area that stretches for eight miles along both banks of the nearby Big River.

The Blackhawk Museum, established in 1988, is located in Danville, California. It is home to five unique galleries that house a significant collection of classic, rare, and unique automobiles. This museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike, offering a glimpse into the evolution of automotive design and technology over the years.

The Sequoia Park Zoo is situated in Eureka, California, and is managed by the City of Eureka. This zoo is part of a larger park complex that includes a 60-acre mature second-growth coast redwood forest, Eureka's largest public playground, a duck pond, and both formal and natural gardens. The zoo is open to the public daily, except in winter when it is closed on Mondays.

The UCR Entomology Research Museum is a part of the Department of Entomology at the University of California, Riverside. It is a significant collection of insects that provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the diverse world of entomology.

The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, fondly referred to as "the Whale Museum", is one of the earliest museums in the state of California. It was established in 1905, originating from the collection of Laura Hecox. This museum is a testament to the rich history and natural diversity of the region, making it a significant destination for tourists interested in natural history and the cultural heritage of Santa Cruz.

The Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology (WFVZ) is a non-profit organization located in Camarillo, California. The foundation's primary focus is on bird conservation, conducting research and providing education on the subject. As a charitable organization, it is dedicated to preserving and promoting the importance of bird species and their habitats.

The Interpretive Center opened in 1984 with a mission to present and interpret the unique features and history of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. The almost 10,000 square foot expanded Interpretive Center, re-opened on July 15, 2006, features exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the Peninsula

A visit to this center with a 700,000 year old Columbian Mammoth tusk and hundreds of other fossils from nearby Fairmead site is time well-spent.

Amazing natural center that aims to promote environmental issues and raise our awareness. Plenty of animals in a beautiful settings.

Micke Grove Zoo, located in Lodi, California, is a small 5-acre zoo that was established in 1957. The zoo is part of the larger Micke Grove Regional Park, which also includes a Japanese Garden, the San Joaquin County Historical Society and Museum, an amusement park, and facilities for picnics and Frisbee golf. This makes it a versatile destination for tourists, offering a variety of attractions beyond the zoo itself.