Think those reviews don't help? Well, because of Yelp reviews, our own Living Desert has top the list as the best zoo in America.
The country ranked the top 20 zoos by 24/7 Wall Street.com. and with more than 840 reviews, Our Living Desert topped the list. 
The list surveyed Yelp.com for zoos in the US, which covered over 1000 cities by population and only included locations with more than 50 reviews. This list is based on visitor experience, so you can definitely trust the people simply love our Living Desert. Some of the other reviews out there are only popularity contests, but Yelp really listens to individuals monitoring where they come from, who they are, and their status on Yelp. The Living Desert boasts a 4.5 star score with over 840 reviews.
What is the Living Desert?
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, previously known as the Living Desert Museum, is a non-profit organization located in Palm Desert, Riverside County, California. The establishment houses a diverse collection of over 500 animals from over 150 species and attracts more than 500,000 visitors annually. Occupying 1,200 acres of land in the Sonoran Desert of the Coachella Valley and Santa Rosa Mountains foothills near Palm Springs, California, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens comprises of 80 acres of developed zoo and gardens.
Since 1983, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has been a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). Furthermore, the establishment has taken part in numerous species reintroduction programs, including the successful reintroduction of peninsular bighorn sheep to the local mountains and the return of Arabian oryx to Oman.
Mission and Goals
Living Desert is honored by this recognition and it speaks to the dedication and passion of its volunteers and staff. Their mission is to educate visitors about the deserts of the world, not just Home Desert. Other California zoos include the Living Coast Discovery Center in Chula Vista and Orange County Zoo. Most of the reviews are written by visitors from outside our area and you want them to include both local and national visitors. During the summer months, the zoo gets a steady stream of visitors and summer visitation is actually up 20% in 2023
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is committed to desert conservation through preservation, education, and appreciation. As a unique zoo and botanical garden hybrid, the establishment focuses exclusively on the world's deserts. Its programs revolve around environmental education, native wildlife rehabilitation, plant propagation, habitat restoration, and the breeding of African, Australian, and North American species, including the iconic desert bighorn sheep found in the region.
Things to do at the Living Desert
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Springs, California, offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the things you can do at The Living Desert:
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View Animals: The Living Desert is home to over 500 animals from 150 species, including big cats, giraffes, zebras, and many other desert animals. Visitors can observe these animals up close in their natural habitats.
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Take a Guided Tour: The Living Desert offers a variety of guided tours, including behind-the-scenes tours, garden tours, and the popular Safari Tour, which takes you on a 45-minute journey through the African savanna.
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Explore Gardens: The Living Desert features 1,200 acres of desert botanical gardens, including a cactus garden, butterfly garden, and hummingbird garden, where visitors can experience the beauty of the desert flora.
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Ride the Carousel: The Wildlife Wonders Carousel, located in the park's Village WaTuTu, is a popular attraction for kids and adults alike.
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Attend Animal Shows: The Living Desert offers daily animal shows where visitors can learn more about the animals and their behaviors.
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Enjoy Special Events: The Living Desert hosts several special events throughout the year, such as the Brew at the Zoo beer festival, Zoo Camp for kids, and WildLights, a holiday light display.
Overall, there's plenty to see and do at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, making it a great destination for families and animal lovers.
The Living Desert has opened a new butterfly exhibit and Australia themed exhibit including all "Wallaby Walkabout" where visitors can actually interact with Australian animals, sans crocodiles or the box jellyfish.
Our zoo is changing every day and we are literally a living population of animals, wildlife, nature, flora, and fauna. The city of Palm Desert allocates over $1 million to the Living Desert to be paid over the next five years, so you know there's always something exciting going on here.
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