Press Room

Starting Sunday, October 1, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens returns to regular operating hours of 8:00am-5:00pm daily, with last admission at 4:00pm. Also beginning October 1, all non-member tickets will need to be pre-purchased online or at the self-service kiosks near the entrance. This streamlined process is designed to minimize entry wait times and allow guests to quickly embark on their Zoo adventure. The Living Desert is open daily, except December 25.

Coinciding with the change to regular hours on October 1, The Living Desert’s popular giraffe feedings will be offered from 9:00am-3:00pm daily for an additional fee of $8 for members and $10 for non-members. The Rhino Encounter – a semi-private, exclusive experience by advance reservation – will be offered daily at 8:30am for an additional fee of $45 for members and $50 for non-members. The endangered species carousel will be open from 9:00am-4:30pm at $3 per ride.  

“We are thrilled for another incredible season here at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens,” shares President/CEO, Allen Monroe. “Guests can look forward to exciting new features as well as seasonal favorites at our events throughout the year. From special holiday evenings to everyday happenings, there is always something wonderfully wild to enjoy here at the Zoo.” 

The Living Desert’s popular annual events will also return to the Zoo this season:
Howl-O-Ween – October 28-29 from 9:00am-3:00pm.
WildLights – Select nights, November 22-December 30. New! Adults only (21+) night – December 14. Tickets on sale October 15.
World Desert Day – January 13, 2024.
International Desert Conservation Summit – February 2-4, 2024. Registration opens October 5. 
2024 Zoobilee Gala – February 24, 2024.
Glow in the Park – Select nights, March 16-April 28.
This is How We Zoo It

Beginning on October 1, join us for a 30-minute guided tour that gives an inside look at how The Living Desert cares for its 600 animal residents. You’ll also learn about the Zoo’s many conservation efforts to help protect, preserve, and restore natural desert environments here and around the world. Walk-ups welcome. 
$13/members | $15/non-members | $10/child

About The Living Desert: 
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a nonprofit, accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, ensuring the highest standards of all aspects of animal care, education, conservation, public service, and operations. The Zoo is active in conservation research, habitat protection, breeding programs, and education initiatives around the world, as well as in its own community. The Zoo has been a top destination in the Palm Springs area for more than 50 years. The Living Desert is located at 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260. For more information: (760) 346-5694 or visit livingdesert.org.