Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary

Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary offers families an intimate, up-close wildlife experience with rescued animals including bears, wolves, and monkeys. Unlike larger zoos, the smaller setting allows kids to get remarkably close views while learning about animal rescue and conservation, making it perfect for a manageable morning or afternoon outing.

• ✓Up-close viewing of rescued black bears and wolves
• ✓Hands-on petting area with goats and sheep
• ✓Educational talks about animal rescue and rehabilitation
• ✓Spider monkeys and other primates in interactive exhibits
• ✓Compact, stroller-friendly layout perfect for young children

1. 1.Arrive right when it opens at 10:00 AM for the most active animals and smallest crowds, especially on weekends
2. 2.Bring quarters for the animal food dispensers, kids love feeding the sheep and goats in the petting area
3. 3.Park in the free lot off Stafford Street; it's small so arrive early on Saturdays when it fills up quickly
4. 4.Don't miss the black bears near the back, they're often most active during morning feeding times
5. 5.The zoo is quite small (you can see everything in 1-2 hours), so consider pairing it with nearby Folsom Lake for a full day out

Visit Thursday through Saturday mornings between 10:00 AM and noon when animals are most active and temperatures are comfortable. Avoid Sunday afternoons when family crowds peak, and note the zoo is closed Monday-Wednesday.

Admission is very affordable at around $8 for adults and $6 for kids. The zoo is mostly outdoors with limited shade, so bring sunscreen and hats during summer months.

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for exploring the mostly outdoor zoo. Summer visits can be hot with limited shade, so morning visits are essential. The zoo operates year-round with reduced winter hours.

Sutter Street in Historic Folsom (less than a mile away) offers family favorites like Monk's Cellar for burgers and pizza, or Karen's Bakery for sandwiches and treats that kids love.