Things to Do at Fresno Chaffee Zoo
Complete Guide to Fresno Chaffee Zoo in Fresno
About Fresno Chaffee Zoo
What to See & Do
African Adventure
A 13-acre exhibit featuring lions, elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, and various African species in a recreated savanna landscape with multiple viewing areas
Sea Lion Cove
Watch playful sea lions swim, dive, and interact in a 280,000-gallon habitat with underwater viewing areas and daily educational presentations
Reptile House
Explore one of the most comprehensive reptile collections on the West Coast, featuring snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and the famous Galapagos tortoises
Winged Wonders Bird Show
Experience free-flight bird demonstrations featuring eagles, hawks, owls, and exotic birds in an outdoor amphitheater setting
Kingdoms of Asia
Discover Asian wildlife including Malayan tigers, orangutans, and various primate species in authentically designed habitats
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Open daily 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (last admission at 3:00 PM). Extended hours during summer months and special events. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Tickets & Pricing
Adults $16.50, Children (2-11) $11.50, Seniors (62+) $14.50, Children under 2 free. Annual memberships available starting at $70. Group discounts available for 15+ people. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.
Best Time to Visit
Visit during cooler months (October-March) for more active animals. Weekday mornings offer smaller crowds. Summer evenings during extended hours provide comfortable temperatures.
Suggested Duration
Plan for 3-4 hours to see all major exhibits comfortably, or a full day if attending shows and educational programs
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
The surrounding 157-acre park features playgrounds, picnic areas, Playland amusement rides, and Storyland fairy tale theme park
Unique hand-carved underground citrus gardens and living spaces created by Italian immigrant Baldasare Forestiere in the early 1900s
Contemporary art museum featuring rotating exhibitions, permanent collections, and educational programs in a modern facility
Large regional park offering hiking trails, disc golf, dog park, and the annual Fresno Fair, located about 10 minutes northeast
Historic arts and entertainment district with vintage theaters, restaurants, bars, and unique shopping opportunities