Press Room

PALM DESERT/INDIAN WELLS, CA – (May 31, 2023) – Beginning Thursday, June 1, The Living Desert will transition to summer operating hours that will be effective until September 30. Guests can experience wildlife habitats, gardens, and special attractions from 7:00am-1:30pm daily, with last admission at 12:30pm.

During summer hours, The Living Desert’s wildly popular giraffe feeding continues with adjusted hours of 8:00am-12:00pm. The Rhino Encounter – a semi-private, paid experience by advance reservation – is offered at 8:00am daily. The Living Desert’s Private Safari Tours will also continue throughout the summer. This two-hour guided tour is offered daily and includes a private shuttle and giraffe feeding; advance reservations required. 

The Zoo’s Desert Plant Conservation Center and Tennity Wildlife Hospital and Conservation Center are also open during park hours. Keeper Connections will continue throughout the summer and guests are encouraged to check the daily schedule for specific times, available at LivingDesert.org. 

Summer programming includes ZooCamp – a wild adventure for children grades K-9. ZooCamp sessions run for 3-day camps select weeks June – August, and each session offers unique themes, activities, and experiences. Advance registration is required; for more information visit LivingDesert.org/ZooCamp.

“We encourage guests to enjoy the extra morning hour and the many shaded pathways throughout the Zoo and Gardens,” said Erin Scott, Senior Manager of Brand, Marketing & PR for The Living Desert. “There are a multitude of ways to enjoy The Living Desert this summer, and we can’t wait to welcome guests to have their best day ever!”

Coinciding with adjusted summer hours, The Living Desert’s carousel and hiking trails will close until October 1 when fall operating hours resume. 

For tickets and additional information, visit LivingDesert.org or call (760) 346-5694.

Media Contact:

Casandra Staubo
Account Executive
(832) 229-6722
casandra.staubo@jessuppr.com

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 over 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.