ZOO

    

Since 1962, Merced Applegate Zoo has been home to many wild animals in need of a safe place to live. Currently, the zoo houses approximately 75 mammals, birds, and reptiles, many of which are California native species that came from wildlife rescue centers.

No longer able to survive in their normal habitat due to injury or being kept as pets, these ambassadors from the wild need care and protection. In return they provide zoo visitors with a glimpse of the wonders of nature.

Professional zookeepers provide daily care and management of the animals. Individuals are welcome to enroll in the volunteer program to assist with exhibit cleaning, diet preparation, landscaping maintenance and zoo improvement projects. Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age and may pick up a volunteer application at the zoo and attend a volunteer orientation the second Thursday of each month at 3:30pm.

Hours of Operation

*Zoo is temporarily closed for remodeling January 2026 through June 2026*

Thursday through Sunday: 10 AM to 4 PM

Closed Monday through Wednesday, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year's Day

Location

1045 W 25th Street, Merced, CA 95340

Admission Prices

Under 2 yrs.: Free
Ages 3-13: $3.00
Ages 14-59: $4.00
Ages 60+: $2.00

Please observe: No pets, bicycles, roller blades, skateboards, smoking/vaping or loud music allowed in the zoo.

Please do not feed the animals any non-designated food.