As a dad of two energetic kids, I’m always on the lookout for creative ways to keep my little ones entertained, especially during holidays like Easter. Chocolate eggs and home egg hunts are a staple in our house, but let’s be honest—kids love a bit of adventure. For me, that’s where California’s incredible zoos come in. Every year, several zoos across the state put on Easter-themed events that are not only fun for the whole family but also a great way to learn about animals. It's basically an egg hunt and an educational outing rolled into one.
If you're a parent who’s tired of the same backyard Easter traditions, here’s a rundown of my favorite California zoos that go all out for Easter. I’ll take you through their unique events, why they’re worth visiting, and what makes them kid-approved.
Why Zoos Are Perfect for Easter Celebrations
Before diving into my list, let me explain why I think zoos are the ultimate Easter destination for families. First off, they offer a unique twist on the traditional Easter experience by combining it with wildlife education. Instead of just hunting for eggs, your kids can also learn about the animals that lay them (like birds and reptiles). Plus, there’s something for everyone—cute animals for the little ones, interesting facts for older kids, and the chance for adults (like me) to breathe in some outdoor air while the kids burn off their endless energy.
Another bonus? A lot of these events incorporate conservation themes. So, while my kids are busy scrambling for eggs, I feel good knowing they’re also soaking up knowledge about protecting wildlife. Seriously, what’s not to love?
1. The San Diego Zoo – Easter Eggstravaganza
When it comes to family-friendly zoos, the San Diego Zoo is hard to beat. Every Easter, they host an event called Easter Eggstravaganza that my kids absolutely adore. Picture this: colorful egg hunts scattered across the zoo, face painting stations, bunny meet-and-greets, and even live musical performances. The atmosphere feels like a festival, with activities for every age group.
One of the highlights for my family was the Easter-themed scavenger hunt. It was an interactive way to explore different exhibits, and my kids were thrilled to find clues near their favorite animals like koalas and penguins. Plus, the zoo always has springtime-themed enrichment activities for the animals, so you might catch a lion playing with a giant pink egg or elephants munching on fruit-filled baskets. It’s a win-win for everyone.
Pro tip:
Arrive early! The egg hunts fill up quickly, and you’ll want time to explore other parts of the zoo afterward. Oh, and don’tforget sunscreen—San Diego’s sunshine is no joke.
2. The Los Angeles Zoo – Big Bunny’s Spring Fling
I’ve been taking my kids to the Los Angeles Zoo’s Big Bunny’s Spring Fling for a few years now, and it never disappoints. This event is perfect for younger kids because there’s a lot of focus on hands-on activities. My kids loved the crafts station, where they got to decorate their own bunny ears. There’s also a special photo op with a giant Easter Bunny, which makes for some great family memories (or embarrassing future photos for when they’re teenagers).
What really sets this event apart is their animal presentations. The zoo staff uses Easter as an opportunity to teach kids about animals associated with the holiday, like rabbits, chickens, and even reptiles that lay eggs. My youngest was fascinated watching a live demonstration about how birds incubate their eggs.
3. Oakland Zoo – Bunny Hop and Egg Hunt
The Oakland Zoo’s Bunny Hop and Egg Hunt has quickly become a favorite for my family. What I love most is that this event focuses heavily on the educational side of Easter. It’s not just about gathering plastic eggs filled with candy (although my kids obviously love that part); it’s also about learning. The zoo offers guided tours of exhibits where kids can discover fun facts about egg-laying animals.
Another highlight is the live music and dance performances that take place throughout the day. My kids had a blast dancing along with the performers while munching on snacks from the food trucks parked nearby. Oh, and parents take note—this zoo lets you pre-register for the egg hunts, so there’s no chaotic rush.
4. Fresno Chaffee Zoo – Spring Safari
If you’re looking for a smaller, more relaxed zoo experience, I highly recommend the Fresno Chaffee Zoo’s Spring Safari. The event is more low-key compared to some of the bigger zoos, but that’s what makes it special. It feels more intimate, and the staff really takes time to engage with the kids.
At the Spring Safari, your little ones can participate in egg hunts, storytelling sessions, and special animal encounters. For my family, the highlight was the giraffe feeding. Watching my kids hand leafy greens to these gentle giants while giggling uncontrollably was a moment I’ll never forget. The zoo also offers an Easter-themed conservation talk, which gave me a chance to teach my kids about protecting wildlife in a way they could understand.
5. Santa Barbara Zoo – EGGstravaganza
The Santa Barbara Zoo holds an annual event called EGGstravaganza, and it’s one of the most picturesque places tospend Easter. The zoo is perched on a hill overlooking the ocean, so even if you’re not there for the animals, the views are worth it. But of course, the Easter activities make it even better.
At EGGstravaganza, kids can enjoy egg hunts, animal feedings, and live entertainment. My daughter was particularly excited about their Easter Bunny Parade, where the Easter Bunny himself rides through the zoo on a little train. It’s adorable and makes for some great photo ops.
What to Pack for a Zoo Easter Adventure
If you’re planning to visit a zoo for Easter, here are a few tips based on my experience:
- Comfortable Shoes: Zoos are big, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Snacks and Water: While zoos have food stands, the lines can get long during events.
- A Stroller or Wagon: If you’ve got younger kids, they’ll appreciate having a place to rest.
- A Small Bag for Candy: Most egg hunts provide baskets, but it never hurts to bring your own.
- Sunscreen and Hats: California’s spring weather can be surprisingly sunny.
Why These Events Matter
Beyond the fun and games, what I love most about these Easter zoo events is how they bring families together while sparking curiosity about wildlife. My kids always leave with smiles on their faces and new animal facts to share. As a parent, it’s incredibly rewarding to see them so engaged and excited to learn.
If you’re a California parent looking to make Easter extra special this year, I can’t recommend these zoos enough. Whether you choose the bustling San Diego Zoo, the educational Oakland Zoo, or the scenic Santa Barbara Zoo, you’re guaranteed a day full of laughter, learning, and memories your family will treasure.
So, dust off those bunny ears, grab a basket, and hop on over to one of these incredible zoos—you won’t regret it. Trust me, it’s worth every minute of planning.
Happy Easter!
That’s the end of my roundup, and I hope it gives you some inspiration for your next family outing. If you’ve been to any of these events or know of other amazing Easter activities around California, feel free to share them in the comments. I’m always looking for new adventures to try with my kids!
