Press Room

PALM DESERT/INDIAN WELLS, CA – (September 29, 2022) – On Saturday, October 1, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens returns to its regular hours - opening daily at 8 a.m. for both members and non-members with full zoo amenities opening at 9 a.m. The Zoo will remain open until 5 p.m. with the last admission at 4 p.m. 

The Living Desert’s three, nature preserve hiking trails- the Discovery Loop, Adventure Loop, and Wilderness Loop- will also reopen to guests and members at 8 a.m. beginning October 1. While each trail offers varying degrees of difficulty, they all feature beautiful views of the natural desert surroundings. Hikers must observe all posted signage and stay on the designated trails. The trails, accessible with paid admission or with an annual membership, are open daily through May 31, 2023. 

Also beginning October 1, new hours announced for popular Zoo activities. Giraffe feedings are offered 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily for an additional fee of $6 for members and $8 for non-members. Rides on the endangered species carousel are available 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily at $3 per ride.

“We look forward to welcoming our members and guests to experience all of the adventure and fun this season at The Living Desert,” noted Allen Monroe, President/CEO of The Living Desert. “There is always something new to discover including an exciting line up of events and new programming, and of course the amazing wildlife we all love.”

Coinciding with the return to regular hours, The Living Desert will be hosting a Desert Tortoise Celebration on October 1, from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Free for members or with paid park admission, this special event invites guests to learn about the endangered desert tortoise, California’s state reptile, as well as learn how they can help this native desert species. There will be a special keeper connection, trivia and crafts, and the opportunity to meet with a variety of The Living Desert’s conservation team and community partners, including U.S. Fish and Wildlife, Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians, Joshua Tree National Park, and the California Turtle and Tortoise Club, among many others.
 
The following popular annual events also return to the Zoo this season: 
Howl-O-Ween - October 29 & 30, 2022. Tickets are on sale now!
WildLights - select nights, November 22 - December 30, 2022. Tickets are on sale now!
Zoobilee Annual Gala – March 4, 2023.
Glow in the Park – nightly, March 15 - April 30, 2023.

Also returning for the season are field trips, camps, and family programming, as well as travel opportunities and private safari tours. The Living Desert is open daily, except December 25. For more information about The Living Desert and upcoming events and programs, visit LivingDesert.org or call (760) 346-5694. 

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.