The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Natural Wonders and Conservation Efforts in the Desert
Address: 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260, United States
💲 Adult entry from $39.95
👩🦽 Wheelchair accessible
🍽️ Dining options (open 9am-5pm daily)
🚽 Public Restrooms
Where can I find The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens?
Found in Palm Desert, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is set against the stunning backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains.
It is easily accessible from Palm Springs, just a short drive away, in the heart of the Coachella Valley.
Why should I visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens?
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens signals conservation, education, and preservation of desert environments and their inhabitants.
It spans 1,200 acres, where you can explore North American and African exhibits and a range of plant and animal life - you can even feed the giraffes!
What are the opening hours at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens?
General opening hours
October 1 - May 31
Monday - 8am - 5pm
Tuesday - 8am - 5pm
Wednesday - 8am - 5pm
Thursday - 8am - 5pm
Friday - 8am - 5pm
Saturday - 8am - 5pm
Sunday - 8am - 5pm
From June 1 to September 30 the zoo is open from 7am - 1.30pm.
Last admission is one hour before The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens closes.
Closures and holidays
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is closed December 25.
Be sure to check for latest guidance for any other closures on the official website.
Where should I park when visiting The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens?
Free parking is available at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens main entrance.
There's ample space for visitors, with designated areas for buses and larger vehicles.
Is The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens accessible by public transportation?
Public transportation options are limited to the Palm Desert area when visiting The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.
However, taxi and rideshare services are readily available to and from the zoo, making it accessible from nearby cities and accommodation.
When is the best time to visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens?
The best time to visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is early in the morning, especially during the summer months, to enjoy cooler temperatures and active animal behavior.
Fall and spring also offer pleasant weather and the opportunity to see the desert in bloom.
What are the best things to see near The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens?
There are plenty of great places close to The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens to also explore. Here are some favorites.
- Palm Springs Aerial Tramway - Travel here and you can expect jaw-dropping views of the desert below.
- Joshua Tree National Park - A vast protected area, scattered with rugged rock formations and stark desert landscapes.
- El Paseo Shopping District - Known as the Rodeo Drive of the desert, it features a wide range of shops and restaurants.
- Indian Wells Tennis Garden - A premier tennis facility hosting the annual BNP Paribas Open.
Common questions about The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Springs and you can expect a wide range of desert animals and plants, educational exhibits and plenty of natural beauty. Here is what else you can find.
Is The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens accessible to those with lower mobility?
✔️ Yes, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens are accessible, with wheelchair rentals available at the entrance.
Is The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens free to enter?
❌ No, there is an admission fee to enter The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, which supports conservation and education efforts.
Is The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens pet-friendly?
❌ No, pets are not allowed for the safety of the animals and visitors to The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.
Is The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens child-friendly?
✔️ Yes, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens offers a wide range of educational and engaging activities for children.
Is The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens a year-round attraction?
✔️ Yes, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is open year-round, offering different experiences with the changing seasons.
Are refreshments available at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens?
✔️ Yes, there are multiple dining options at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.
Are there restrooms at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens?
✔️ Yes, there are multiple restroom facilities throughout The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.
What else is useful to know before I visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection, especially during the summer months.
Check the zoo's schedule for special events, animal encounters, and keeper talks to enhance your visit.
Where to stay near The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
There are plenty of great hotel options in the Palm Springs, for all budgets, to head back to after exploring The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Check out some of our favorites below.
Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel, an IHG Hotel - Staying at The Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel you can expect luxurious comfort, rooftop views, refined dining, all set in a prime downtown location.
Life House, Palm Springs - You can expect a tranquil setting, lush gardens and pool, and contemporary décor when you stay at Life House, Palm Springs.
The Paloma Resort - A visit to The Paloma Resort is anything but budget, with luxury surroundings, chic, retro design, and top-notch service.
