Located in the heart of Santa Ana, California, the Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park is a must-visit destination for animal lovers. With a vast collection of over a dozen primate species from around the world, this 20-acre zoo is a fascinating place to explore the animals and plants of Central and South America. Owned and operated by the City of Santa Ana, the zoo focuses on recreation, education, and conservation and welcomes more than 270,000 visitors annually.
History buffs will enjoy learning that the zoo was opened in 1952, thanks to the generous donation of land by Joseph Prentice, who stipulated that the city must keep at least 50 monkeys at all times. Mr. Prentice loved animals and was fascinated by monkeys, which he kept on his back porch at his first home. Jack Lynch, a young man from Orange County, played a key role in designing and building the cages for the animals, which turned into his life’s work.
The Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park is a unique point of interest that offers visitors a chance to experience the wonders of nature up close. Here are some of the top things to do and see:
- Explore the extensive primate collection, which includes over a dozen species from around the world.
- Take a ride on the Zoofari Express, a miniature train that takes visitors on a scenic tour of the zoo.
- Visit the Crean Family Farm, where you can see domestic animals such as sheep, goats, pigs, and more.
- Check out the Conservation Education Theater, which hosts animal presentations and educational programs.
- Take a stroll through the Amazon’s Edge exhibit, which features animals and plants from the Amazon rainforest.
Visitors to the Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park can also explore nearby attractions such as the Bowers Museum, which showcases art and artifacts from around the world, or the Discovery Cube Orange County, which offers hands-on science exhibits and activities for all ages.
In conclusion, the Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park is a fascinating place to explore the animals and plants of Central and South America. With a rich history and a focus on recreation, education, and conservation, the zoo offers visitors a chance to experience the wonders of nature up close. Whether you’re interested in the extensive primate collection, the Zoofari Express train ride, or the Conservation Education Theater, there’s something for everyone at the Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park. So, if you’re looking for a unique point of interest to visit, be sure to add the Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park to your list.