Best Zoo Exhibits In The Bay Area

Each year on Fathers' Day, the San Francisco Zoo holds a special Bike About event for dads and their families. During the event, participants will be treated to a guided hour-and-a-half tour through the zoo followed by a leisurely continental breakfast. The Bike About price for zoo members is $25, $30 for non-members, and includes admission to the zoo. Participants must pre-register and bring their own bikes.

Each month the Oakland Zoo designates a Saturday or Sunday morning to hold a special Teddy Bear Tea. Each event is geared towards children ages 4 through 8, who may be joined by their favorite stuffed animal and an adult.  Events include a variety of activities such as stories and snacks, and children will each receive a treat bag full of surprises to take home. The theme of each tea changes monthly. This year, it's Baboons in June, Sun Bears in July and Macaws in August. Space is limited, so pre-registration is strongly recommended.

CuriOdyssey is a Peninsula-based wildlife and science education center. Hands-on exhibits encourage kids' exploration and interaction to enhance learning experiences. A new exhibit entitled FORCES will be opening on June 22, and will feature a variety of nature's driving forces. Attendees will have the opportunity to investigate everything from a rain panel to "flying" magnets. Other CuriOdyssey exhibits include Backyard Science and mammal, bird and reptile habitats.

Another program run by the Oakland Zoo is Summer ZooCamp, open from mid-June through mid-August. Open to children entering Pre-K through grade 12 in the fall, each grade level grouping's camp features a different theme ranging from topics like Eco-Explorers to ZooArt. Animal focused camp activities include everything from crafts and games to science projects and puppet play. Children are welcome to attend multiple sessions as activities are structured to avoid repetition. Half-day options are available for younger campers, and pricing varies by grade level.

San Jose's Happy Hollow Park and Zoo has been a long-time favorite spot for South Bay families. The combination theme park and zoo features a variety of rides and animal exhibits designed for younger children. Each year in early September, the Happy Hollow Foundation holds a special benefit event called Hoot & Howl. With proceeds going towards zoo growth, education and conservation, these adults-only events draw zoo supporters with a variety of fun activities. Attendees will be treated to private after-hours park access, food stations, signature cocktails, music and more.