In the Spotlight
The Los Angeles Public Libraries
The Los Angeles Public Library has much to offer preschoolers including puppet shows, arts and crafts and story time.
Developmental or Academic Preschool?
Which is best for your preschooler?
Your Los Angeles Regional Correspondent
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Los Angeles Zoo
The Los Angeles Zoo offers families with preschoolers an opportunity to hike, climb, swing, ride and enjoy viewing wildlife in natural habitat settings.
What preschoolers will love about the Los Angeles Zoo:
In addition to visiting all of their favorite animals your preschooler won’t want to miss the other preschooler friendly attractions the Los Angeles Zoo has waiting for them:
The Winnick Family Children’s Zoo: The petting zoo gives preschooler’s a chance for “hands on learning”. Preschoolers are able to walk among animals they may have only seen previously in picture books or on television.
The Neil Papiano Play Park: Preschoolers will love to take a break from the delights of the zoo to enjoy this fantastic play area with climbing equipment, picnic areas, slides and much more. This is a great place to eat if you have brought your own lunch.
LA Choo Choo: Is your preschooler a train lover? If so, he or she will enjoy the LA Choo Choo. For a moderate fee your preschooler can ride this cute train around a small oval track. Be aware however that age requirements are pretty rigid, only riders from 3-7 years old can participate
What parents of preschoolers will love about the Los Angeles Zoo:
Hand washing stations: These handy stations are located just outside the entrance of the petting zoo. The posted signs ask that you wash before coming in contact with the animals. I recommend that you don’t miss the wash stations on your way out as well!
Restrooms: There are a total of 10 restrooms placed strategically around the park. No matter how deep into the property you venture, there is sure to be a restroom nearby. We didn’t visit all of them, but the restrooms we did use were clean, well maintained and sufficiently stocked with necessities.
Restaurants: If you choose to purchase food at the park there are many options. In total there are 7 establishments to choose from, ensuring you can find something for a picky preschooler.
Picnic Areas: If brown bagging it is more your style the grounds offer abundant shade and plentiful benches as well as formal picnic areas.
Free Shows: If your preschooler tires of walking around take in one of the many free shows the Los Angeles zoo offers on a daily basis. The World of Birds showcases many wild and exotic birds of prey performing for your enjoyment. Adventure Theater is a fun interactive story telling experience that encourages audience participation. Riordan Kid’s Korner (Named for former Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan) is an interactive story time for young children that showcase small animal visitors. Animal Encounters gives preschoolers and their families a close up look at some of the exotic residents of the zoo.
Tips for enjoying the Los Angeles Zoo:
Map: Take the time to review your map before starting out. There are some shaded tables just inside the entrance perfect for doing this. The Los Angeles Zoo is very large and has many inclines. A preschooler may tire easily so check the map for locations of exhibits you don’t want to miss!
Wagons: If your vehicle allows, bring a wagon for your preschooler. They are so much easier than strollers for your preschooler to climb in and out of as they view exhibits, run or rest. They are also perfect for stowing picnicking supplies!
Shoes: Make sure you and your preschooler are wearing comfortable walking shoes. The Los Angeles Zoo is located among the hills of Griffith Park and it is quite a hike, at least you won’t have to worry about getting to the gym the day you visit!
General Information:
Parking: Parking is plentiful and free of charge at the Los Angeles Zoo.
Tram: Visitors who would rather ride than walk can enjoy the zoo via the tram for a nominal fee.
Stroller Rental: If you forget your stroller or wagon, or decide once you get there that you wished you had brought one a rental service is available. I took a peek at the strollers and they were quite nice. Because of the steep inclines the strollers are three wheeled jogging type. They have a shade canopy and plenty of room for a preschooler to stretch out their legs.
Hours of Operation: The Los Angeles Zoo is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM with the exception of Christmas Day.
Address: 5333 Zoo Drive Los Angeles California 90027
Other Information: To find out more about the Los Angeles Zoo or check out the Events calendar be sure to visit the Los Angeles Zoo website.
To get directions to the Los Angeles Zoo check out the map.