The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Closed now

Neighborhood: South Palm Desert
Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (last admission 4 p.m.)
Checked Oct 2026; confirm with the venue before you go.

Address: 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260
Phone Number: (760) 346-5694
Website: livingdesert.org

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a nonprofit, AZA-accredited zoo in Palm Desert dedicated to the deserts of North America, Australia and Africa. More than 600 animals live across its habitats and botanic gardens, and the 1,200-acre property also includes miles of hiking trails. It is one of the easiest half-day outings in the valley for families, and a surprisingly good one for adults too.

Animals, Gardens and Trails

Habitats range from Wild Americas, with coyotes, foxes and desert cats, to the African areas where giraffe feedings run daily for an extra fee. The botanic gardens showcase desert plants from around the world, and the trail system runs from the easy Discovery Loop to the tougher Wilderness Loop. A carousel and keeper talks round out the day.

Seasonal Events

The zoo hosts Howl-O-Ween at the end of October and WildLights, its holiday light walk, on select nights in late November and December. Check the events calendar for this season’s dates.

Check Before You Go

From October 1 through May 31 the zoo is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last admission at 4 p.m. Summer hours (June through September) shift earlier, 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tickets must be bought in advance and prices vary by date. The park is cashless and closed on December 25. Guests under 18 need to be with an adult.