Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park is known for its monkey business, and with good reason. Its founder put a rule in place that stated the family-friendly zoo needed to have 50 monkeys at all times in order to exist. These primates, along with the other animals and activities, make the zoo an ideal family-friendly excursion for animal lovers.
Best and worst time go to Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park
Weekdays between June and August are great since you won't have to deal with large school groups. Cold and potentially rainy weather between December and February might keep some animals from being active.
Must see/do at Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park
The adorable pygmy marmosets are the smallest monkeys in the world. The Ocelot Exhibit & Education Center is home to two of only 26 Brazilian Ocelots in the country. The onsite Crean Family Farm offers feeding and milking activities on select days.
Admission to Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park
Admission ranges from $4 to $10. You can also make a one-time purchase for an annual pass.
Parking at Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park
Parking is free. However, there isn't an abundance of parking spots, so you may need a little patience.
Public Transportation to Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park
You can ride the Metrolink to the Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center and catch a bus. Just be aware that you'll need to walk two blocks to the zoo once the bus drops you off.
Food at Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park
There is only one café in the zoo. However, the café is run by a local burger chain, so the grub is better than you might expect.
Insider tip for visitors to Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park
Visit the zoo after 2:00 p.m. They sell tickets at a discount and you'll still be able to see everything by the time they close at 5:00 p.m.
Author's bio: Rich Manning is a freelance writer based in Orange County, CA. He's been writing about food, drink and lifestyle in Southern California for over 10 years.
