America's Teaching Zoo
A unique student-run zoo offering hands-on exotic animal training and rescue insights. Educational and engaging for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More animal activity
America's Teaching Zoo
Best Time
More animal activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique student-run zoo offering hands-on exotic animal training and rescue insights. Educational and engaging for all ages.
"Cutest zoo ever! All the animals are well taken care of. The environment is clean, odor-free, and well-organized."
🎯 Support Student Learning
Your visit directly supports students in the Exotic Animal Training program. Learn from their passion!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the five-acre zoo. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Exotic Animal Training
Various enclosures
Witness students training exotic animals using positive reinforcement techniques. A truly unique educational experience.
Wildlife Theatre Presentations
Wildlife Theatre
Learn fascinating facts and backstories about the animals from passionate student keepers. Highly educational for all ages.
Diverse Animal Collection
Zoo grounds
See a variety of animals, from lions and hyenas to birds and tortoises. Many are rescues, adding to their compelling stories.
Birthday Party Venue
Designated areas
A popular spot for children's birthday parties, offering a memorable and fun-filled celebration with an animal theme.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Student-Run Zoo Experience
Weekend Visits & Special Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Support Student Learning
Your visit directly supports students in the Exotic Animal Training program. Learn from their passion!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the five-acre zoo. Comfortable footwear is a must!
📅 Check Operating Hours
The zoo is typically open on weekends. Always confirm hours before your visit.
🌧️ Rain or Shine
The zoo operates in all weather conditions, with students dedicated to animal care.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Support Student Learning
Your visit directly supports students in the Exotic Animal Training program. Learn from their passion!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the five-acre zoo. Comfortable footwear is a must!
📅 Check Operating Hours
The zoo is typically open on weekends. Always confirm hours before your visit.
🌧️ Rain or Shine
The zoo operates in all weather conditions, with students dedicated to animal care.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera to snap photos of the animals and the unique training sessions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise America's Teaching Zoo for its clean, odor-free environment and the exceptional care provided to its animals. The educational aspect, driven by passionate student keepers, is a major highlight, making it a rewarding experience for both children and adults. It's a highly recommended destination for its unique approach to animal education and welfare.
"Cutest zoo ever! All the animals are well taken care of. The environment is clean, odor-free, and well-organized. As adults we’ve learned a lot about the animals at the wildlife theatre. The staffs are helpful and professional. They are truly passionate about their jobs around these animals. I’d say this place is perfect for both adults and kids. Don’t miss out!"
Eileen Wang
"What a great resource for students wanting to learn how to be zookeepers, and a great place for a lovely outing and way for kids to learn more about exotic animals right in the Conejo Valley! The zoo rescues animals when they are confiscated at airports or from residential homes where they were wrongfully brought to begin with.
Love that they offer a great birthday experience here, too!"
Georgina Corkett
"The facility is clean and the animals are well taken care of. We attended the Wild Lights event last year and the Boo at the Zoo this year to support the work they are doing. We loved hearing all the back stories of the animals and interacting with them. It is a small and intimate zoo that's worth the trip."
Kelsi Hoover
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
America's Teaching Zoo is located at Moorpark College in Moorpark, California. Visitors can typically access the zoo via car, with parking available on campus. It's a popular destination for those in the Conejo Valley and surrounding areas.
While specific public transport routes can vary, checking local transit schedules for Moorpark College is recommended. Many visitors opt for driving due to the zoo's location.
Parking is generally available on the Moorpark College campus. It's advisable to check for any specific event parking instructions or potential fees on the day of your visit.
Yes, America's Teaching Zoo is accessible from Los Angeles, though it involves a drive. Many visitors make it a day trip from the LA area.
The zoo is situated in Moorpark, part of Ventura County, offering proximity to other local attractions and natural areas for a fuller day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
America's Teaching Zoo is typically open on weekends. It's always best to verify the exact operating hours on their official website or social media before planning your visit, as they can vary.
Admission fees can vary, and it's recommended to check the official America's Teaching Zoo website for the most current pricing information. Proceeds often support the student program.
While walk-in tickets are usually available on operating days, purchasing tickets in advance, especially for special events, is often recommended to secure your spot.
Information on group rates or discounts may be available on their website. It's worth inquiring directly with the zoo if you are planning a visit with a larger group.
America's Teaching Zoo is generally family-friendly and suitable for all ages. Children are welcome, and it's a popular destination for school field trips.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a diverse range of animals, including lions, hyenas, tortoises, birds, and various mammals. Many of the animals are rescues, and their stories are often shared. 
This program at Moorpark College trains students to care for and train exotic animals. Visitors get to see this training in action, offering a unique educational perspective.
While direct interaction might be limited for safety, the zoo offers educational presentations and opportunities to learn about animal behavior and training from the students.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic place for kids to learn about animals in a hands-on educational environment. Many families find it a great outing.
'Boo at the Zoo' is a popular Halloween-themed event that offers a festive atmosphere with animal-related activities, making it a hit for families.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food and beverage options may be limited or seasonal. It's often a good idea to bring your own snacks and water, or check with the zoo beforehand about available concessions.
Generally, bringing your own food and non-alcoholic beverages is permitted at most zoos, but it's always wise to confirm the specific policy of America's Teaching Zoo.
Yes, the area around Moorpark College offers various dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants, should you wish to dine before or after your visit.
Information about dedicated picnic areas might be available on their website. If not, finding a comfortable spot on the grounds for a picnic might be possible.
If concessions are available, they usually offer typical zoo fare like snacks, drinks, and light meals. It's best to check their current offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, always be mindful of any posted signs regarding flash photography or specific animal viewing areas.
The animal enclosures themselves offer great photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for unique training moments or animals interacting with their environment.
Policies on professional equipment like tripods can vary. It's advisable to check with the zoo administration if you plan to use specialized gear for commercial or extensive professional photography.
Drones are typically not permitted at zoos due to safety concerns for animals and visitors. Always adhere to local regulations and zoo policies.
Visitors often share photos of the animals, the students interacting with them, and the unique training sessions. Videos of animal sounds, like ASMR, are also popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Many reviews highlight the zoo as a perfect spot for birthday parties, offering a memorable experience. The focus on rescued animals also provides a great opportunity to teach children about compassion and animal welfare. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring snacks, as food options might be limited. [^Review Summary]
🎓 Aspiring Zookeepers & Animal Enthusiasts
You can learn directly from students about husbandry, training techniques, and the dedication required. The zoo's commitment to rescue animals also offers insights into ethical animal management and rehabilitation. It's a place to gain inspiration and practical understanding of the field.
📸 Photography Buffs
+1Look for moments of animal interaction, feeding times, or training breakthroughs. While personal photography is encouraged, always be mindful of any restrictions on flash or professional equipment. The 'ASMR' style videos of animals eating are also a popular trend to capture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Exotic Animal Training and Management (EATM) Program
+2This immersive educational approach means that the zoo is not just a place to see animals, but a place to understand the dedication and skill involved in their care. The students are the heart of the zoo, and their passion is evident in their interactions. This provides a unique perspective that goes beyond a typical zoo visit, offering insights into the daily lives and training regimens of exotic animals.
Many visitors rave about the educational value of the zoo, highlighting how much they learned from the knowledgeable student staff. It's a testament to the program's success that the animals appear well-cared for and engaged, showcasing the effectiveness of modern, ethical animal training techniques.
Animal Welfare and Rescue Efforts
This rescue mission adds a layer of profound purpose to the zoo. Visitors learn the compelling backstories of individual animals, understanding the challenges they've overcome and the dedicated care they now receive. This focus on rehabilitation and providing a safe, enriching environment for these animals is a key reason why the zoo is so highly regarded by visitors.
The students in the EATM program play a crucial role in the daily care and enrichment of these rescued animals. Their work ensures that each animal receives specialized attention, contributing to their physical and psychological well-being. This dedication to ethical treatment and rescue makes America's Teaching Zoo a truly special place.
Planning Your Visit: What to Expect
Visitors often praise the zoo for its cleanliness and the lack of strong odors, which can sometimes be an issue at larger facilities. The layout is designed to be engaging, and the student staff are consistently noted for their helpfulness and passion. [^Review Summary]
For those looking to make a day of it, consider checking for special events like 'Boo at the Zoo' during Halloween, which offers a unique, festive experience. The zoo also hosts birthday parties, making it a popular choice for family celebrations.
[^Review Summary]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit