Sequoia Park Zoo

Imagine a place where majestic ancient trees meet the fascinating world of fauna. Sequoia Park Zoo is a unique natural sanctuary located in the city of Eureka, in Northern USA. Founded in 1907, it proudly holds the title of the oldest zoo in California and is the smallest accredited zoo in the country.

This compact yet extraordinarily scenic site covers 24 hectares and is nestled in the midst of a mature redwood forest. The zoo is part of a larger park complex that includes not only animal habitats but also formal gardens, a duck pond, and one of the largest playgrounds in the region. It is more than just a place for animal watching; it is a true ecosystem steeped in history and natural majesty.

Adding to its significance is the fact that it sits on the ancestral lands of the Wiyot tribe, the Indigenous people of this region. The combination of century-old conservation traditions and modern educational programs makes Sequoia Park Zoo a must-see for any traveler visiting Humboldt County.

For more information on special events or ticket prices, you can use the official contact details provided below.

In this cozy zoo, you can encounter over 150 animals representing more than 50 different species. Among the most popular residents are graceful bald eagles, playful river otters, and charming red pandas. Observing them surrounded by giant trees creates a sense of total immersion in the wild.

The absolute highlight and "star of the show" is the Redwood Sky Walk. This is a series of suspended bridges and platforms that allow you to take a walk at a bird's-eye view directly through the canopies of thousand-year-old redwoods. This thrilling adventure offers a chance to see the forest's unique ecosystem from a perspective previously available only to researchers and birds.

The zoo provides ideal conditions for family leisure: children will love the spacious playgrounds and the opportunity to feed birds by the picturesque duck pond. After meeting the animals, you can stroll through the well-kept formal gardens or head deeper into the forest along natural trails, enjoying the peace and crisp air of the North Coast.

Sequoia Park Zoo is conveniently located in the southern part of Eureka at 3414 W St. If you are traveling by car, getting there is easy—the site is well-integrated into the city's road network, and parking is available for visitors.

For those who prefer public transportation, the city operates bus routes that reach the park area. Historically, this area was connected by the city’s streetcar line, making it accessible to residents and visitors as early as the beginning of the last century.

You can also use taxi or ridesharing services from the city center. The trip takes only a few minutes, as the zoo is located within city limits, harmoniously blending urban accessibility with the wild nature of Northern California's forests.

The history of this remarkable place began in 1894 when the Glatt couple donated the land to the city. Their primary condition was the preservation of the majestic redwoods, which still form the heart of the landscape today. Initially, the area was called Forest Park, but the current name was adopted later.

The Sequoia Park Zoo itself was officially established in 1907, making it the oldest zoo in California. In the early 20th century, the expansion of the streetcar line boosted the site's popularity: the terminal stop was right at the park entrance, making it the premier Sunday recreation spot for locals.

It is important to note that the zoo is located on the ancestral lands of the Wiyot tribe. These Indigenous people have lived in the Humboldt Bay area for millennia, and the park administration maintains a deep respect for the cultural heritage and history of the land's original inhabitants.

Most visitors need between 2 to 4 hours to leisurely explore all the animal enclosures and soak in the atmosphere of the ancient forest. This provides enough time to meet the zoo's inhabitants and take a walk high above the ground.

If you plan to have a family picnic, spend time at the playground, or thoroughly explore all the trails in the surrounding redwood park, we recommend dedicating a full day to your visit. The scale of the adjacent territory and the beauty of the gardens are perfect for a long, relaxed day in the fresh air.

Sequoia Park Zoo is open to guests daily, making it easy to plan a visit any day of the week. The gates are open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Current schedule:

• Monday — Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

The city of Eureka is famous for its Victorian architecture and historical charm, so after visiting the zoo, be sure to take some time to explore the surrounding area. A stroll through the quiet streets will reveal unique buildings and landmarks that reflect the rich history of the North Coast.

Below are some interesting sites located near the park: