About
One attraction the whole family will enjoy is Sequoia Park Zoo! Tucked inside a towering redwood forest in Eureka, California, it offers a wildlife experience unlike any other. Founded in 1907, it holds the title of California's oldest zoo, and it has kept its charm and community spirit for more than a century.
The setting alone is worth the trip. Sunlight filters through the canopy, ferns line the paths, and the scent of the forest follows you from one exhibit to the next.
For a different view, step onto the Redwood Sky Walk. This elevated trail stretches about 1,200 feet through the treetops and rises to 100 feet above the forest floor!
On the ground, red pandas nap in the branches while river otters play at the Watershed Heritage Center as bald eagles keep a watchful eye. Little ones can meet friendly animals at the barnyard, making the zoo a natural fit for families.
Admission is modest, and the surrounding 67-acre Sequoia Park is free to explore. With walking trails, picnic areas, and a duck pond, it's easy to turn a short visit into a full day of discovery.
Sequoia Park Zoo: Fun Facts & Cool Features
The Barnyard is a hands-on, family-friendly experience where visitors—especially kids—can touch goats, sheep, rabbits, llamas, and other animals in the Contact Corral. It’s open from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
A playful area near the entrance invites children to climb, explore, and splash. Clear-walled, above-ground tanks also offer a window into the underwater lives of otters and salmon. You’ll get a rare view of these animals as they swim and play, while learning how to help protect the environment.
As mentioned above, the Redwood Sky Walk is a highlight of any visit. It’s the longest in the western United States and winds through the redwood canopy, offering a bird’s-eye view from 100 feet above the forest floor. Best of all, the Sky Walk is safe, with 3.5- to 4-foot guardrails lining the entire Walkway, and wiring designed to prevent climbing or reaching through the panels.
Additionally, the structural supports add extra stability, and the walkway was engineered to withstand earthquakes and high winds. Every precaution has been taken to create a safe and memorable experience.
Ecos Cafe is the zoo’s on-site eatery that recently underwent a renovation. With the gift shop now relocated to the zoo’s exit, the cafe has expanded and received a fresh update.
The menu features classic lunchtime favorites like burgers, fries, salads, and sandwiches, along with snacks such as ice cream, smoothies, popcorn, and pretzels. A kids’ menu is also available, making the cafe a convenient spot to recharge during a visit.
Local Tips
- Buy tickets online to skip the line and confirm current hours and any special events.
- Arrive near opening time on a weekday for lighter crowds, cooler air, and more active animals.
- Take advantage of free parking near the W Street entrance.
- Pack a refillable water bottle, snacks, and a light jacket to avoid on-site costs
